We’re big fans of Amused Moose here at Funny Women. Over the years, they’ve showcased and supported some brilliant comic talent and been one of the most formidable players in the world of live comedy. Their founder, Hils Jago, even lent her comedy prowess to our Sex Lies and Lots of Cake panel discussion down in Brighton last month. With the amazing opportunities they create for new and upcoming comedy talent, we’re delighted to report some exciting news…
If you’re a comedian heading to Edinburgh Fringe this year, the Amused Moose Laughter Award 2013 is now open for entries. This Award provides the senior strand of the Amused Moose Comedy Awards and could bag you a £5,000 prize if you and your show impress Amused Moose’s panel of judges.
So, how does it work? The idea behind the award is that you film your show, which is then viewed online by heavyweights from all over the comedy industry – not just in the UK but worldwide. The benefit here is that your show is getting seen by lots of people who could potentially offer support if they like what they see. It’s worth noting that producers, artistic directors, reviews and promoters are keen to watch online as most shows enter the competition before they even head up to the Fringe – giving them a bit of a headstart – so Amused Moose recommends filming a preview if you can and submitting it as soon as possible!
Some key things to remember:
– Filming doesn’t need to be at a professional standard, but you do need to make sure you can be seen and heard.
– Your show must be listed in the Comedy section of the Edinburgh Fringe guide and must run on at least 18 dates.
– No-one in the show can have any contract, deal or support of any kind of DVD (or similar), producer or publisher.
– All details can be found at http://www.amusedmoose.com/awards – which includes the link to the entry form too.
– The deadline is 23:59 on Sunday 4th August – this is final, so don’t leave it til the last minute!
The Amused Moose Comedy Awards showcases will take place at the Soho Theatre on 1st, 2nd and 3rd October. These showcases will feature the winner and two runners up, and often others from the ‘Top Ten’ shortlist. London-based industry professionals are invited and the showcases also provide a platform for audiences who may not have made it up to the Fringe too.
Previous winners Tony Law (2011) and Marcel Lucont (2012) have both seen their careers flourish after scooping the top prize, not least due to TV exposure gained through the Award. It’s also worth remembering that you don’t have to win to benefit – the competition has a legendary reputation for unearthing comedy that’s “almost DVD-ready” but hasn’t quite gotten the exposure it deserves, and voting at the Award’s Final includes input from the paying audience and a panel of industry professionals as well as the judges. Whether you win or not, the competition is an amazing opportunity – so for all you budding female comedians out there, this is a chance not to be missed!
Pictured: 2012 winner Marcel Lucont – could it be you this year?
