For English comics only
New stand-up contest launched
A new stand-up competition has been launched, open to English comedians only.Promoter Alan Anderson hopes to repeat the success of his Scottish Comedian Of The Year with his new contest, which will culminate in a final on St George’s Day next year.
Up for grabs is a £1,000, plus a trophy based on the fez worn by Tommy Cooper – that famous WELSH-born comic.
The contest is open to any English comedians, not just new acts, so technically the likes of Jack Dee, Ricky Gervais or Frank Skinner would be perfectly eligible, should they wish to turn up to one of the pub gigs hosting the heats.
Anderson said: ‘England has the largest stand-up comedy circuit in the world. English stand-up is a flourishing art form that should be properly celebrated and showcased to the world.
‘Although they are generally perceived from afar as having a stiff upper lip attitude, it is really the English’s ability to mock themselves that sets them apart from other nationalities. Without that great English sense of humour they would never have survived living next door to the dour Scots or the songful Welsh or the eternally jolly Irish.
‘From Shakespeare to Monty Python and from Charlie Chaplin to Eddie Izzard for centuries the English have been renowned across the globe for their comedic abilities. They just haven't liked to brag about it too much. How very English.’
There are several loopholes that does not limit the competition to English-born or raised acts, as the rules allow anyone who has lived in England for more than 12 consecutive months, has an English parent or grandparent, or who is even married to someone English.
The top finalists will also take part in an English Comedian of the Year tour and 2009 Edinburgh Fringe show.
The Scottish competition has previously come under fire, with some critics complaining that the title Scottish Comedian Of The Year is misleading, as many of the top, most established acts do not enter.
Click here for details of the new contest.
Published: 2 Dec 2008
