Comedian Michael McIntyre heading for Blackpool’s Grand Theatre

The award-winning funnyman will be showcasing new material at the Church Street theatre in June ahead of his Happy And Glorious arena tour later in the year.

He last played the Grand as part of TV series Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow in 2010, shortly after making his resort debut in three low-profile preparation dates at the now-closed Tower Lounge bar.

McIntyre will be at the Grand on Tuesday and Wednesday, June 24 and 25 for the ‘Work In Progress’ shows, promising ‘fun-filled comedy and a stash of new jokes’.

Grand Theatre chief executive Ruth Eastwood said: “After the tremendous success of Lee Evans last year, we are so excited to announce the return of one of comedy’s best-loved acts, Michael McIntyre.

Glorious

“We love to put on a range of entertainment for the people of Blackpool, Wyre and the Fylde, and this year the Grand has some great acts lined up for those who love a good laugh.

“Comedy-lovers won’t be disappointed.”

Happy And Glorious gets under way at Plymouth Pavilions on Friday, August 7.

McIntyre is the latest comic addition to the Grand’s programme this year, with highlights including Milton Jones on Sunday, June 7, Alan Carr on Thursday, July 2, and Ken Dodd returning for the autumn, plus Ed Byrne coming next February.

In 2012, McIntyre’s Showtime tour was the world’s biggest selling comedy tour, playing to more than 640,000 people, including a 10-night residency at London’s O2 Arena.

He has also released three best-selling DVDs, including Hello Wembley, which in 2009 became the fastest selling UK stand-up DVD of all time – a record it still holds .

Tickets for McIntyre’s Grand dates – costing £32 – go on sale on Thursday at 10am at blackpoolgrand.co.uk or at the box office on (01253) 290190.

The shows start at 8pm.