James headlines comedy clubs around the UK and is also highly sought after as an MC. His comedy is erudite, off the cuff and clean. He has worked all over the world from Shanghai to Slovakia, Malta to Melbourne. He turned professional after winning the Jongleurs New Act Of The Year Award in 2000.

Dowdeswell has appeared on numerous TV shows including Russell Howard’s Good News (BBC) and Extras (BBC) where he played the Count in the David Bowie episode. He also presented World Cup Round Up for Sky Sports.

James is the author of The Pub Manifesto: A Comedian Stands Up For Pubs. This was published by CAMRA Books in November 2018. It was nominated for The Guild Of British Beer Writers Award for The Long Live The Local Award for Best Book On Pubs 2019. It was name-checked as one of the best Christmas books by a comedian in The London Evening Standard.

James is in demand for corporate work as he is clean, intelligent and razor sharp with crowd work. In the last couple of years he has entertained such clients as Microsoft, Skype, JD Sports Annual Conference, Teacher’s Union Annual Conference, law firms, golf clubs and CIWA waste disposal.

James is also the leading comedian in the world on the subjects of beer, wine and pubs. He has a solo stand-up show on beer and wine and can also combine it with a wine and beer tasting. He has performed variations of this show for such clients as Pol Roger Champagne, Arrowhead Entertainment, Thresher Wine Group Annual Conference, Ram Brewery and Vinopolis Wine.

Dowdeswell is fast becoming known as “The Craft Beer Comedian.” His latest show, “Beers Of A Clown” is a hilarious love letter to beer. The show has been an hit so far with a string of sell out shows including Brew York Brewery, Moor Brewery, and The Alma Theatre in Bristol.

However, Dowdeswell is also very passionate about the world of wine. His first vintage, “Wine” hit the Edinburgh Fringe in 2007, followed by a run in Australia at Adelaide, Melbourne and Perth Fringe. His latest incarnation, “Sips And Giggles” is about to be decanted at the prestigious Chapel Down Winery, followed by a mini wine tour.”