DANA Alexander, Canada’s “First Lady of Comedy”, will headline Saturday Night Lounge in the Basement bar at City Screen, York, this weekend.

“Dana has spent the last couple of years wowing audiences here in the UK at both clubs and festivals,” says Hyena Lounge Comedy Club promoter Toby Clouston-Jones. “She’s a really high-energy comic who powerhouses her way through her set, crammed with well constructed jokes.

“As the only black female comedian on the circuit in Canada, her comedic style is both refreshing and irreverent, drawing her material from her diverse lifestyle, her gay friends and her crazy Jamaican family.”

John Gordillo, last seen in York as support to Reginald D Hunter, will be on the 8pm bill too, along with Paul Myrehaug and compere Tiernan Douieb.

Gordillo shot to fame in the comedy industry 20 years ago when he co-wrote and directed Eddie Izzard's first three shows.

“He’s also written extensively for Michael McIntyre, among other household names, and is a multi award-winning stand-up in his own right. The only comedy genius we know!” says Toby.

Myrehaug is the show’s second Canadian. “Like Dana, he’s a household name there, and having spent the last couple of years touring the world, he’s now in the UK building his career over here,” said Toby.

“This weekend’s MC, Tiernan Douieb, is returning to the Hyena Lounge, and with his mix of warm-hearted material and witty audience banter, it’s easy to see why he’s one of the best comperes in the country.”

Doors will open at 7.15pm on Saturday; tickets cost £12 online at hyenalounge.com or on 0871 902 5726.