Mock the Week comic Hugh Dennis hosts a fundraising gig in memory of an inspirational teacher at his former Hampstead school.
Now in its second year, April Foolery is an evening of comedy and music to support The Lund Fund - named after ex UCS teacher David Lund.
Dennis, who was head boy at the top private school in the late 70s, said it was "a really great cause".
"The Lund Fund run by the wonderful charity Eastside is doing amazing work to give incredible creative opportunities to children from the most disadvantaged backgrounds," said Dennis who lives in Highgate with his Outnumbered co-star Claire Skinner.
"I really believe that exposure to the arts from an early age can be life changing for many young people, and it’s something that needs to be protected in our education system. It’s also great to honour a former UCS teacher and inspiration to many, David Lund, who did all he could to encourage pupils to reach their creative potential."
Lund taught English at UCS for nearly 30 years, and left a gift in his will to Eastside.
Dennis, who earned a scholarship to the Hampstead school because his father was then a vicar in Mill Hill, said: "UCS will always hold a very special place in my heart.
"I have so many happy memories there and owe a lot of my career successes to the school actually; being Head Boy gave me my first taste of public speaking, and thanks to David Lund, I was introduced to some great jazz and comedy acts from an early age. He would organise performances from the likes of Fry and Laurie, The Cambridge Footlights, Barry Cryer, Michael Palin… plus many Jazz legends including Ronnie Scott, Courtney Pine and Annie Ross. Who knows what different course my life could have taken without these experiences in my childhood!"
Fellow comic Simon Brodkin, who grew up in Hampstead Garden Suburb and was expelled from UCS in his teens, is also on the bill for the April 24 show at The Criterion in the West End. The National Youth Jazz Orchestra is the house band, with comedy from Angela Barnes, Travis Jay, Rhys James and Ania Magliano and Glenn Moore.
"You’re in for a night of hilarious stand up and incredible live jazz music," added Dennis.
"I’m excited to be sharing the stage with some of the best new comedic talent, as well as fellow UCS alumnus and incredible prankster, Simon Brodkin. The show will be a night to remember, in support of a brilliant cause that’s close to my heart, what more could you want?"
For tickets to April Foolery on April 24 go to https://www.criterion-theatre.co.uk/aprilfoolery/?&eventid=8001
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here