Success for crowdfunder to make comedy reviewing more diverse

A crowdfunding appeal to help Chortle widen the range of critical voices at the Edinburgh Fringe has hit its target within a week.

It means that the comedy reviewer we recruit for the festival – from either a working-class or non-white background – will now have their travel and accommodation covered, up to £500.

They will be paid the same again in commissions from this website, as well as receiving mentoring on their work.

Chortle editor Steve Bennett said: ‘It’s amazing news that the crowdfunder hit its target – and thanks to everyone who contributed.

‘Its success tells me that the lack of diversity among comedy reviewers is an issue that people feel needs addressing, so hopefully we can grow this scheme grow in future.

‘Also thanks to Olivia Phipps who set up the crowdfunder (which is here). She thought the candidate chosen shouldn’t have to pay their travel and accommodation to be in Edinburgh and decided to do something about it.’

Applicants for the scheme have one more week to apply, submitting a 500-word review on a comedy show, either live or a taped special. Full details of how to apply are here.  

Published: 16 Mar 2018