A progressive Muslim comedy tour aimed at breaking down social barriers is heading for the North West.

Plugged as where mainstream America meets Islam — not with conflict but with laughter — the popular comedy show calls in Manchester as part of a UK tour.

The Allah Made Me Funny comedy show is an attempt by a group of American Muslim comics to counter the negative stereotypes and attitudes about Muslims and Arabs by poking fun at themselves, their communities and the prejudices they face.

Making its US debut at a club in Washington in 2003, the concept was born as the brainchild of US comedian Preacher Moss, whom the Seattle Times called “a new (comedian) Dick Gregory”, owing to his artistry, wit and insight into his cultures from around the world.

The tour also features Azhar Usman, an American Muslim comedian from Chicago and Arab-American standup Mo Amer.

The Muslim comedians aren't afraid to poke fun at themselves with jokes about Muslims being late and about faulty sound systems in mosques.

With the current climate of political affairs and agendas across the globe, Allah Made Me Funny sets out to show audiences the lighter side using stand-up comedy as a vehicle to break down social barriers faced in society with prejudices on religion.

Preacher Moss, says the intention is to bridge the gap between different communities, which he believes has widened since the September 11 attacks of 2001.

Back in the UK after public demand and a sold-out show at the Manchester Apollo in 2009, Allah Made Me Funny has toured over 30 countries in the world and is the longest-running artistic collective of Muslim comic performers on the planet.

This year's UK tour, which has already received rave reviews, also has dates confirmed in London, Birmingham and Glasgow.

ALLAH MADE ME FUNNY — The Sheridan Suite, Oldham Road, Manchester, Thursday, November 10. Tickets on 0905 099 0159.