A star-studded, annual charity gala is returning to the city today to raise money for mental health support in the county.

Oxfordshire Mind and Jericho Comedy are taking over Oxford Playhouse for the Oxfordshire Mind Comedy Gala for two shows at the theatre.

The Gala’s line-up features comedy stars Rosie Jones, Angela Barnes, Esther Manito, Jamie D'Souza and Chelsea Birkby.

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The 2021 Gala was a digital show due to lockdown restrictions and staff at Oxfordshire Mind have said they “couldn't be more excited” to return for an in-person event.

Dan Knowles, CEO of Oxfordshire Mind, said: "We couldn't be more excited to return to the playhouse, after a really difficult time for live events and the comedy industry we're delighted to return for an in person show live from one of Oxford's loveliest theatres.

“We've managed to raise over £20,000 in just one night for our last few shows at the Playhouse, and we're very happy to have raised over £8000 for our online virtual show last year. There's a really loyal audience for our annual gala, and it's a delight to see people come out in their droves for such a fun night fundraising for such a wonderful local mental health charity"

"We always get such a wonderful line-up mixing TV stars, some of the best comedians working in the UK, as well as some hand selected up and coming acts who are the stars of tomorrow. We remember our first gala had James Acaster headlining, and then just 2 months later he had his 3 hour specials debut on Netflix"

"We've raised over £75,000 for mental health to date through running comedy nights in Oxfordshire, we absolutely adore working with the team at Oxfordshire Mind and couldn't be happier to be returning for our annual comedy gala" Jericho Comedy

“We’re excited to be able to hold a live event again and we’re all looking forward to a fun event with some great acts. Every penny raised, will support us in providing more local mental health services.”

The Gala will take place at the theatre at 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Saturday, January 15.

Guests will also be able to join from home, as the 7.30pm performance will be livestreamed across the UK.

Tickets for the in-person event are £22.50 and £12.50 for the livestream version, with both sets of tickets available on the Oxfordshire Mind website.

Oxfordshire Mind provides free mental health support. If you would like to chat about any issues, they are available to listen and support you.

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