An unfiltered evening of wit, wisdom, and maybe weeing yourself laughing!

Life’s wild, messy, and totally unpredictable, so why not laugh your way through it? Join comedians Athena Kugblenu and Jordan Gray alongside WOW Founder Director Jude Kelly CBE for an evening of sharp wit, outrageous stories, and chaotic fun. Together they’ll tackle the everyday madness of modern life: the strife, the silliness, and the surprising moments of joy that keep us going.

Expect unfiltered honesty, brilliant banter, and the kind of comedy that has you nodding in recognition one moment and crying with laughter the next. And who knows? With this line-up, there might even be a song or two thrown in for good measure.

Come ready for big laughs, bold truths, and a reminder that sometimes the best way to stay sane(-ish) is to stop taking it all so seriously.

This event takes place as part of WOW North East Festival. Founded in 2010, more than 150 WOW Festivals and events have now taken place in 71 locations across the world, and 2025 marks the first ever WOW Festival in the North East! Taking place in partnership with S&DR200,

WOW will pack Gala Durham full of unmissable talks, performances and workshops to celebrate the incredible women, girls and non-binary people of the North East.

Don’t miss the WOW North East Festival Day on Saturday 18 October – a day full of powerful conversations, joyful workshops and unforgettable performances.

WOW North East is presented by S&DR200 and WOW – Women of the World. S&DR200 events are delivered by Darlington Borough Council, Durham County Council and Stockton-on Tees Borough Council, with support from North East Combined Authority.