New Fringe award for ethnic acts

Richard Pryor has lent his name to a new comedy award, recognising the best ethnic show at the Edinburgh Fringe.

And the legendary stand-up will even judge the winner from his California home.

The award, which includes an undisclosed cash prize, is aimed at rewarding “ethnic comedians who demonstrate the same kind of innovation and fearlessness that Pryor became famous for”.

Pryor’s multiple sclerosis will prevent him attending Edinburgh to judge in person, so he will make his decision from video footage of comics shortlisted by an Edinburgh-based panel.

The award has been set up by Revolver Entertainment, distributors of the new DVD of his 1979 Live In Concert film, with the support of Pryor’s wife Jennifer Lee.

Managing director Justin Marciano said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be encouraging greater diversity in stand up comedy"

And Fringe director Paul Gudgin added: "We're delighted to welcome this new award to the Fringe. It's an honour to be associated with Richard Pryor."
 
Full details of the award will be announced at a later date on the website  www.richardpyroraward.com

Published: 12 Jun 2004