Four comedians, one night
Get ready for a night of fun, laughter and gloriously unpredictable comedy as Horizons Festival 2026 takes over HOME Manchester with a truly international line-up of stand-up talent.
Featuring four of the most distinctive voices on the UK comedy circuit, this special showcase brings together perspectives from across the globe — all delivered with razor-sharp wit, cultural insight and the kind of punchlines that make you laugh first and think later.
Headlining the evening is Shazia Mirza, the acclaimed British-Pakistani comedian known for her fearless satire, brutally honest observations and appearances on some of the UK’s biggest comedy and TV stages.
Joining her is the unforgettable President Obonjo— the self-proclaimed dictator-turned-comedian will be your evenings Master of Ceremonies taking no prisoners with his surreal political chaos and unapologetic crowd work.
Also appearing is Tadiwa Mahlunge, the Zimbabwe-born, Cardiff-raised comic rapidly becoming one of the breakout names in UK stand-up, blending laid-back storytelling with brilliantly offbeat takes on modern life.
Completing the line-up is Yuriko Kotani, the award-winning Japan-born comedian whose deadpan delivery and brilliantly awkward observations have earned her a devoted following nationwide.
One stage. Four international comedy powerhouses. Zero chance of a quiet evening. Come along for an evening of smart, diverse and laugh-out-loud stand-up.
More about the comedians
Horizons Comedy Club is organised by Just Fair Laughs a Manchester based comedy agency and is part of the wider Horizons Festival 2026 programme celebrating global voices, culture and creativity.
SHAZIA MIRZA
Award-winning British-Pakistani comedian, writer and broadcaster Shazia Mirza is renowned for her fearless stand-up, razor-sharp social commentary and brilliantly provocative humour. A regular on international stages, television and radio, she remains one of the UK comedy scene’s most distinctive voices.
“Fearless, brutal and beautifully measured.” — The Guardian
PRESIDENT OBONJO
Created by British-Nigerian comedian Benjamin Bankole Bello, President Obonjo is the larger-than-life “dictator” of the fictional Lafta Republic. Combining surreal political satire, audience interaction and total comic unpredictability, the character has become a cult favourite at comedy clubs and festivals across the UK.
“One of the most exciting and original acts in comedy today.” — Joe.co.uk
TADIWA MAHLUNGE
Zimbabwe-born and Cardiff-raised, Tadiwa Mahlunge is one of the UK’s fastest-rising comedy talents. Known for his laid-back delivery, sharp observations and understated confidence, he has appeared on BBC, Dave and Comedy Central while quickly building a reputation as a standout voice in British stand-up.
“A natural comic with a wonderfully easy stage presence.” — Chortle
YURIKO KOTANI
Japan-born comedian Yuriko Kotani brings a uniquely deadpan style to stories of cultural identity, awkward encounters and everyday British life. Winner of the BBC New Comedy Award, she has become known for her offbeat charm, subtle delivery and quietly brilliant humour.
“Hilarious cultural observations delivered with disarming charm.” — The Scotsman
