Magic critics: Don't get up to your usual tricks
Alan Hudson writes an open letter to reviewers
30/07/2015 … It’s almost time for the Edinburgh Fringe.
2015 Opinions
Chortle's Opinions section is an arena for fans to share their views on any aspect of comedy.
We invite general comment pieces about particular aspects of the comedy scene (although reviews of individual shows or performers tend not to be suited to this section except in very rare circumstances). Contributions should be at least 500 words in length, in a similar tone to something you might read in a broadsheet newspaper, and emailed to steve@chortle.co.uk
We reserve the right to edit pieces – although we will be careful not to change the meaning of anything – or not to use them at all. By submitting an article you grant Chortle indefinite licence to use it freely; though you retain the copyright on it to use it elsewhere.
Thu 30 July 2015
Wed 29 July 2015
So you're pro-gay rights? That's so hack...
Now comedy about same-sex relationships should move on, says Tom Ballard
29/07/2015 … Earlier this year, the people of Ireland ushered in marriage equality by popular vote and the US Supreme Court decreed that America's constitution says #LoveWins.
Mon 27 July 2015
It's harder being a woman in improv
27/07/2015 … Being a woman on the improv scene is like being dyslexic and reading English at university—it's not impossible, but there are a great many things you will have…
Thu 23 July 2015
Comedy, white supremacy and the right-wing agenda
Dana Alexander is disturbed by comics who want the right to discriminate
23/07/2015 … I will start this by saying that I am not a victim and I am luckier than most.
Wed 22 July 2015
© David Olsan Will satirists lay into Jeremy Corbyn?
Steve Palace worries for the state of the art
22/07/2015 … As a patented 'old lefty' I got a bit of a surprise seeing satirical comedian Matt Forde - who ripped seven shades out of Ed Miliband during the General Election…
Mon 20 July 2015
Joke thieves aren't human
How a plagiarist sunsettled Steffan Alun
20/07/2015 … It’s a Wednesday night in a pub in Portsmouth, and I’m sitting at the back of the room with three other comedians.
Thu 16 July 2015
I've got the secret to comedy: A car
Sonia Aste's having a bad trip....
16/07/2015 … A comedy promoter once told me: 'Sonia you have something not many comedians have.
Fri 03 July 2015
Do clothes make the comedian?
Louise Reay wonders if she's being lazy over her stage clobber
03/07/2015 … I am currently putting my first solo show together for the Edinburgh Fringe.