Canadian comedy powerhouse Phil Nichol is making a long-awaited return to the UK stand-up circuit, launching his first major tour in seven years with the new show Trying My Best.

After spending recent years focusing on an impressive run of acting roles, Nichol is back where many fans believe he is at his best, live on stage. The tour began in October in St Leonards-on-Sea, where audiences quickly snapped up tickets for a string of sold-out dates. The run continues into 2026, with a date during Bath Comedy Festival at Nowhere Tavern on the 26th of March.

Trying My Best sees Nichol return to the fast-paced, unpredictable stand-up that made him a cult favourite on the international comedy circuit. The show brings together some of his best-known routines with his trademark musical comedy, including You Can’t Say That to Me, Sleazy Massage, Elvis Sucks and the cult classic Only Gay Eskimo.

Alongside the songs, Nichol delivers rapid-fire storytelling and sharp observations on life as a Canadian living in the UK. From the frustrations of modern travel to the quirks of British humour and its relationship with alcohol, no topic is off limits. His quick improvisation and confident crowd work give each performance a unique feel, with plenty of unexpected moments along the way.

Nichol stepped back from regular touring while starring in The Hook, where he played Dick Marlin in the ambitious cabaret circus production. A veteran of the comedy scene, Nichol remains one of the most respected names in live comedy. He won the Edinburgh Comedy Award in 2006 and has written more than 20 shows for the Edinburgh Fringe. His television appearances include Catastrophe, Uncle and Man Down.

With a career spanning nearly four decades, Trying My Best promises a lively night of comedy filled with songs, stories and the kind of unpredictable humour that has defined Nichol’s work for years.