DVD and tour for top newcomer

ITV1 is launching a new stand-up series aimed at giving new comedians their big break.

In each episode of Show Me The Funny, as the show is tentatively called, ten unknown comics will travel to different parts of Britain to join a group of people, then perform a set based on their experiences. Groups are likely include rugby players and hen nights, producers say.

By the end of the seven-part series one comedian will be crowned the Next Big Stand-up and win a ‘career changing’ prize – including an unspecified cash prize, tour promotion and DVD deal.

Freddie Foss-Smith from producers Big Talk – whose credits include Rev and the Simon Pegg film Paul – said: ‘I’m looking for unknown and relatively new comedians that might not necessarily have even done a gig before but might just have what it takes.

‘We’re not at all picky in terms of age, sex, location etc. and would love for anyone that’s interested to apply. We are presuming that if someone is a massive fan of stand up and goes to gigs regularly then they may have an interest in the prospect of writing and performing.’

Filming takes place from April 18 to June 6, and those wanting to take part should email funny@bigtalkproductions.com.

The format has some echoes of ITV’s 2007 format Tough Gig, where big-name comedians such as Frank Skinner and Dara O'Briain had to immerse themselves in a community before performing a set tailored to that audience.

Published: 14 Feb 2011