A Look At New Road-Show by Kiell Smith‑Bynoe
British comedy’s own improv dynamo Kiell Smith-Bynoe is hitting the road with his wildly popular improvisation show Kool Story Bro. Yes, you heard right: all the spontaneous chaos, audience‑driven storytelling and last‑minute hilarity you’ve been dying to witness — now live, nationwide.
From TV Fame to Improv Stardom
You probably know Kiell from his roles on hit shows like Ghosts, Stath Lets Flats, and his recent stint as host of The Great British Sewing Bee — a post he took over after the Christmas special in 2021.
But comedy has never satisfied him sitting still. Drawing on years of sketch‑writing credits and improv experience, Kiell dreamed up Kool Story Bro — a show where nothing is pre-written and the only script is whatever bizarre story the audience throws at him.
The Tour: Bring On Mayhem (And Laughter)
The 2026 nationwide tour of Kool Story Bro is a big deal: 15 dates across the UK.
With a rotating troupe of comedy talent — including the likes of Emma Sidi, Lola-Rose Maxwell, Nic Sampson, and Graham Dickson — each show promises brand‑new, never‑to‑be-repeated scenes.
Past shows have even featured surprise celebrity guests — from musicians to comedians — mingling with the improv set and adding extra chaos to the mix. Names like Lily Allen, Mo Gilligan, Guz Khan, and even Kiell’s own Ghosts co‑star Charlotte Ritchie have all turned up.
I mean, what’s better than an improvised skit based on “that time someone accidentally sent a text meant for their mum to their boss (oops)”? Now imagine that, with TV stars, last‑minute chaos and a live crowd howling with laughter.
Why Now? Because Improv Is Back, Baby
Once viewed as the “ugly step‑child” of UK comedy — overshadowed by stand‑up and sketch — improv is now enjoying a full-blown renaissance. Performers like Kiell are helping to revive interest by blending improv’s raw spontaneity with A‑list comedic talent.
Kool Story Bro rides this wave perfectly: part comedy experiment, part crowd‑sourced chaos, all heart. As Kiell himself said, he often asks audiences “make some noise if you’ve never seen improv before” — and apparently about 40 % do, meaning there are still loads of people for whom this will be their first taste of unscripted comedy.
What to Expect — And Why You Should Go
Total unpredictability: Every show is unique. Audience stories, surprise guests, spontaneous madness. You won’t get the same thing twice.
High energy & big laughs: This isn’t low‑key drama; this is “can’t‑breathe‑between‑gasps‑and‑laughs” theatre.
Mix of celebrity & fresh talent: A mix of well-known faces and up‑and‑comers — which means it’s funny, but also full of surprises.
Welcome to improv — no experience necessary: Whether you’ve never seen improv or you’re a die‑hard fan, this show is made for you.
If you’ve ever thought “I wish comedy was more spontaneous, more weird, more live,” then grab a ticket to Kool Story Bro while you can. With Kiell Smith‑Bynoe at the helm, you’re signing up for chaos, joy — and maybe the most ridiculous night out you’ve had in ages.