Comedy highlights of 2015: Peter Kay's Phoenix Nights returns and Alan Carr tours the UK

Your guide to the funniest stand-up shows of the year

Phoenix Nights is back after 13 years (Getty Images)

Alex Edelman

Best Newcomer at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards in 2014, the 25-year old American Alex Edelman is slick, smart and has the potential to be huge. Millennial is sharply hilarious on the foibles of youth.

Soho Theatre, London, 13 to 31 January

Josie Long

Like a quieter Russell Brand, Josie Long has been as busy with activism as with stand-up lately. Cara Josephine is her best show yet – a warm, funny blend of the personal and the political.

Soho Theatre, London, 19 to 31 January; then touring to May

Peter Kay’s Phoenix Nights

The reunion gig of 2015, surely. Peter Kay, Dave Spikey, Paddy McGuinness, Justin Moorhouse and more combine to bring Brian Potter and pals back for the first time in 13 years.

Manchester Arena, 31 January to 16 February

Chatty Man star Alan Carr makes a long-awaited return to stand-up (Getty Images)

Alan Carr

The infectiously chatty comedian sets off on his first live tour for four years. Expect gossip and campy outrage aplenty, in Yap, Yap, Yap!

Tour starts 1 February

Simon Amstell

To Be Free sees the king of neurosis at the top of his game. This new show meditates on shame, society and sex dreams. A masterclass.

Tour starts 3 February

Mark Watson’s 27-Hour Show

His 25-hour show in 2013 raised more than £60,000 for Comic Relief, and the livewire stand-up Mark Watson vowed never again. Now, he is back with an even longer charity marathon. Mayhem, VIP guests and croissants will ensue.

Pleasance, London, 27-28 February and streaming live on YouTube

Dylan Moran

On his first live outing proper since 2011’s Yeah, Yeah, the Irish comedian’s 54-date tour takes in plenty of intimate venues. A treat.

Tour starts 3 March