Husband-and-wife acting duo Vanessa and Paul Dunn, from near Rothbury, are bringing laughter to the airwaves with their comedy sketch show Happy Hour, now broadcasting on Radio Northumberland.
The show has had a long and colourful journey. Originally launched on another radio station more than a decade ago, it later evolved into a podcast during the COVID years. Now in its third incarnation, Happy Hour has found a new home on Radio Northumberland, where it airs every Sunday at 7pm.
Described by the pair as “a sketch comedy broadcast with added stuff and nonsense”, the show blends pre-recorded sketches with live features from the studio. Listeners can expect everything from witty skits with guest actors to playful quizzes, silly games, and the occasional “terrible joke” that has already become a regular feature.
“We all need a good laugh now more than ever,” says Paul. “Radio Northumberland is a real community station, and we’re delighted to be part of it, bringing our brand of humour to local listeners.”
The station is now looking for a local business to sponsor Happy Hour by bringing a smile to each of the station’s listeners.
Both seasoned performers, Vanessa and Paul met at drama school more than 30 years ago and have worked extensively in comedy and theatre ever since. Their credits include sketch work for Sunday for Sammy, appearances at the Edinburgh Fringe, and roles in popular North East productions.
Alongside Happy Hour, the couple are currently starring in the hit touring play Dirty Dusting, written by Ed Waugh and Trevor Wood. The comedy follows three office cleaners who, facing redundancy, stumble into running a phone chat line with hilarious consequences. Local dates include:
Customs House, South Shields – 29 September
Alnwick Playhouse – 30 September (limited availability)
Tyne Theatre, Newcastle – 1 October
Darlington Hippodrome – 14 October
Middlesbrough Theatre – 16 October
Listeners can tune into Happy Hour every Sunday at 7pm on Radio Northumberland for a dose of laughter, silliness, and good-natured nonsense.
www.radionorthumberland.com and DAB