85 per cent of comics and industry go without government help

More than 85 per cent of people working in the live comedy industry have secured no government aid, a month after the sector closed down completely.

Most comedians and promoters say they will not even bother seeking financial help – even though a third of them say their future in the business is in jeopardy if the situation goes on for just three more months.

That’s the findings of a limited survey into the impact of the lockdown conducted by the organisers of the Leicester Comedy Festival.

Between them, the 140 people who responded say they have lost around £3million so far – a figure that is likely to grossly underestimate the consequences of social distancing, given that a single arena gig could net in the region of £300,000. A total of 98 per cent said they had work cancelled.

And although 37 per cent of respondent said they have confidence they will bounce back from the impact on their business, that leaves a lot struggling.

Leicester Comedy Festival director Geoff Rowe said the comedy industry was ‘being significantly negatively affected by the current situation’, adding: ‘It’s disappointing, but not surprising, that such a small number of businesses in our sector have been able to obtain financial grants and support to help them at this time.’

Comedian Charmian Hughes, who contributed to the survey, added: ‘I have been massively affected by the current situation, like many comedians, with international shows cancelled mid-tour, UK gigs all gone, major festivals disappeared. But this also affects promoters, agencies and venues. 

‘So while I think the sector will bounce back at some point depending on how long social distancing will be kept in place, I do think the very nature of live comedy could change more than anyone has imagined.’

Boris Johnson announced the lockdown on March 23, ordering all bars and theatres to close to halt the spread of Covid-19. While Ministers are now making plans for a limited reopening of the economy, comedy venues are likely to be among the very last businesses allowed to resume operations.

However, Robin Ince, who also contributed to the survey, found some reasons for positivity.

He said: ‘In times of anxiety and disorder, it can be forgotten, or even seem rather silly, to take time to examine what may seem to be frivolous delights for another time. I have seen how many people during isolation have been encouraged by how the comedy industry has found ways to create nonsense. 

‘We may have no skills, but at least we can try and make the people who actually have some tangible use, a little happier while they are using their skills. It's good to see that this report shows positive reactions in the comedy world and also that it has the foresight to examine how we can start working out how to secure a future for as many people in the comedy world as possible.’

 Business are able to claim help in paying staff furloughed because of the lockdown, while the self-employed have been promised a grant worth 80 per cent of trading profits up to a maximum of £2,500 a month, initially for three months. However, the online service to make a claim is not yet available. Loans are also available, although there have been reports of red tape slowing the process down.

Published: 23 Apr 2020