For more than four decades, Laff it Off has been a cherished fixture of Barbados’ cultural landscape, entertaining audiences with its biting satire, brilliant social commentary, sparkling reviews and side-splitting comedy. Since 1985, this annual theatrical tradition has held up a mirror to Barbadian society, inviting us to laugh at ourselves, our institutions, our idiosyncrasies and the ever-changing world around us.
Over the years, Laff it Off has entertained an extraordinary cross-section of society, from governors, presidents, prime ministers, senators, ministers and ambassadors to justices of the peace and ordinary Barbadians from every walk of life. At the Nook and Cranny Bar, everyone is welcome, everyone has a story, and nobody is beyond the reach of a little good-natured satire!
In its 42-year history, Laff it Off has missed only a handful of performances: the year in which we mourned the passing of the affable Wendell Smith, better known as J. Cranston Pollard, JP, Esq., proprietor of the Nook and Cranny Bar, and the years interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, through it all, the Nook and Cranny Bar has remained very much alive in the hearts and minds of its loyal patrons.
Razor-sharp commentary
And now, the doors are swinging open once again!
On Saturday, January 23, 2027, the Nook and Cranny Bar will reopen at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre for another evening of laughter, reflection and razor-sharp commentary on the Barbadian experience.
The 2027 production, aptly entitled Doan Tek a Six Fuh a Nine, promises to take audiences on another entertaining and thought-provoking journey through the twists, turns and peculiarities of our social, political and cultural landscape.
The production will be produced by Deryck Walcott and Cecily Spencer-Cross, and directed by Angelo Lascelles. An outstanding cast featuring Janine White, Angelo Lascelles, Ishiaka McNeil, Chrispen Hackett, Vilmore Johnson and Asha Elcock will bring the characters, stories and familiar encounters of the Nook and Cranny Bar to life.
Tradition
This year’s production will carry a special poignancy, as it is dedicated to the memory of Peta Alleyne, who departed this life on November 7, 2026, to join the growing company of Laff it Off ancestors. Her memory will be honoured as we celebrate the enduring spirit, creativity and camaraderie that have kept this theatrical tradition alive.
So, come one, come all! Pull up a chair, order your favourite refreshment and join the colourful patrons of the Nook and Cranny Bar as Laff it Off once again takes us on its annual journey across the cultural landscape of Barbados.
The bar is open. The conversation is flowing. And the laughter is guaranteed!
See you at the Nook and Cranny! (PR)