Chortle's 2009 contest opens

The hunt is on for the best student comedian of 2009.

Applications have now opened for the Chortle Student Comedy Award, with a top prize of £1,000. To enter, you must be enrolled in tertiary education and have at least five minutes of original comedy material.

So far eight heats have been announced around the country, with the winner of each going on to a final this summer, where the act chosen by a panel of leading comedy industry insiders will win the cash prize, and an unbeatable boost to their comedy career. The runner-up will receive £250.

Previous winners have included circuit stalwart Lloyd Langford, Nathan Caton, who recently made his own show for Paramount Comedy, and Tom Deacon, now the face of the BBC’s Switch Live.

Chortle editor Steve Bennett said: ‘In the six years we’re been running this competition, we have uncovered some fine comedy talent, who’ve gained some vital early exposure – not to mention much-needed cash – early in their career. We’re proud to continue to support comedians who are just starting out in this way.’

Last year's winner, Jack Heal, said: 'Winning the competition was a great experience. I learnt a lot from performing in such a big venue and the nerves were certainly worth the feeling I had afterwards. The final was hotly contested and I was up against some brilliant acts. I hope the victory will continue to open up more comedy possibilities.'

Entries close on February 9. Click here for details.

Published: 20 Jan 2009