Tiernan stars at Electric Picnic comedy tent

COMEDIAN TOMMY Tiernan is to headline the comedy tent at the Electric Picnic.

Tiernan, who will marry his manager Yvonne McMahon this weekend, will be centre stage at the Stradbelly Laughs, in his only Irish festival performance this year.

He will be one of four Perrier award winners, or its equivalent, playing the festival. Also performing is fellow Irishman Seán Hughes, who was the youngest winner of the award back in 1990.

Canadian Phil Nichol who won the award – renamed as the if comedy award (after sponsor Intelligent Finance) – in 2006 and Australian Brendon Burns who won in 2007, make up the quartet.

Also playing the festival will be Steve Frost’s Improv All Stars, which has been described as the world’s greatest improvisation troupe. The show features five improv masters: Frost, Andy Smart, Steve Steen, Richard Vranch and Ian Coppinger.

The Electric Picnic takes place at Stradbally, Co Laois, between Friday, September 4th, and Sunday, September 6th. Music acts featured this year include former Beach Boy Brian Wilson, Madness, Orbital, The Flaming Lips and Florence and the Machine.

The festival will also introduce a keep-fit section for the first time. Military instructors will be on hand from Bootcamp Ireland, dance teacher Jane Shortall will showcase the Cardio Dance Tribute to the King of Pop – Michael Jackson, and there will also be outdoor yoga.