New contest for pub comedy

The competition, sponsored by Magners cider, is encouraging venues to stage their own comedy nights in a bid to find the best pub comedian in the UK.

However, unlike other new act competitions such no big prize is up for grabs. For example, So You Think You're Funny, which has also just started accepting applications (see below) has a £2,000 top prize.

After getting through the pub shows, regional heats and national final, the winner receives only a trophy and six tickets to next year’s Glasgow Comedy Festival.

The competition, backed by trade newspaper The Publican, stresses the financial benefits a comedy night can have on pub takings.

Managing Editor Daniel Pearce said: ‘In a challenging year for pubs, comedy is one way in which licensees can put a smile on their faces – as well as those of their customers.

‘It’s been proven time and time again that comedy can bring in extra customers to pubs, and spark the feelgood factor which will really drive up sales. The Publican is delighted to be linking up with Magners to promote and inspire pub comedy.’

Jules Macken, of Magners Irish Cider, added: ‘Pub comedy has always been a driving force behind the national comedy circuit, with many successful comedians starting off their careers at their local.’

The running of each night has been left to each individual publican – and they will also choose which comedian wins their heat to represent their bar in the next finals.

They have been given advice such as hiring a good sound system and ensuring the acts can be seen – as well as including intervals to help their takings – but the ‘hints and tips sheet’ makes no suggestion of hiring a professional compere, or of what they should be looking for in the contestants.

The winning pub receives a plaque, and a gig by an unnamed ‘top comedian’. Publicans can find out more information and register here. Entries close on June 30.

• Entries have also opened for this year's So You Think You’re Funny talent hunt, now in its 21st year. Acts who started performing after September 1 last year and have least eight minutes of completely original material can download an application form here. Regional heats take part from next month, for a final the Edinburgh Fringe.

Published: 16 Apr 2008