New comedy contest for over 55s

The Leicester Comedy Festival has launched Britain’s first stand-up contest for the over-55s.

The Silver Stand Up Of The Year Competition has been set up as an ‘antidote to all the young upstarts taking over the comedy scene’, according to its organisers.

George Baddeley, managing director of Silver Comedy, says: ‘It's a bit like the pop industry – the older musicians are frequently the established ones and nearly all the new talent recruited is young.

‘So older people with some interest and potential talent probably don't perceive that there's as much of an opportunity for them to make headway so are less inclined to come forward .

‘There is also possibly some preference in the industry to engage and market new younger budding comedians.’

Mr Baddeley – whose company specialises on organising comedy workshops and performances for older people – added: ‘Through this competition, we are also hoping to challenge some stereotypes about age so it will be interesting to see who how irreverent different acts may be. The older you get, the more life experience you have and the more likely you are to express yourself in a carefree way.’

The competition is open to comedians, either established or up-and-coming – although the lack of any cash prize is likely to deter professional acts.

Heats and the final will be held at the Leicester Comedy Festival, which is this year sponsored by TV channel Dave, on Friday February 17.

To enter email george@silvercomedy.co.uk

Published: 24 Nov 2011