Eight comics will now perform to an audience entirely made up of judges!

The finalists in this year's Funny Women Stage Awards have been announced.

The 320 entrants have been whittled down to eight: Izzy Askwith, Naomi Cooper, Katie Green, Ania Magliano, Mary O’Connell, Fiona Ridgewell, Christina O’Sullivan, Eryn Tett.

The final will take place at London's Comedy Store in front of an audience comprising only judges. Taking place on September 22 and hosted by 2014 winner Jayde Adams, it will be the venue’s first gig back after lockdown.

Awards director Becky Singh said: 'The Funny Women Team have been really impressed with this year’s entrants. The standard was very high and in the face of challenges, the level of dedication and willingness to embrace the new platforms, especially from our semi-finalists, has been truly inspiring.'

Audiences will be able to watch the final via live stream, but tickets have not yet been released.

Published: 4 Sep 2020