No, that title isn’t the name of a new movie. It’s this year’s run of free live comedy shows – which are really auditions for the next wave of comedy talent.
The NATYS (which stands for New ActS of The Year, with the S moved to the end) is put on by New Variety Lives and The Comedy School. We know it isn’t 2016 yet, but the final’s not until January so technically it fits.
The competition has been an annual fixture on the comedy calendar since 1985, before I was even born. An institution if ever I saw one. Some of the big names you’ll know from NATYS runs include funny women Nina Conti and Pippa Evans, as well as Harry Hill, Lee Mack, Russell Brand and Tim Vine.
Entrants must have at least 18 months of comedy experience, and need to perform a 5-minute set based on 10 minutes of existing material.
From over 100 comedy acts, 14 will make it to the final. The NATYS 16: Top of the Bill will be on January 31st at the Leicester Square Theatre (a place we know well) and hosted by Arthur Smith yet again. If you’re at the final, you’ll also get to see Spencer Jones, one of last year’s top contenders.
All of the audition shows are free entry, and set to take place at Rich Mix on Bethnal Green Road in London. There are four: November 3rd, 9th, 24th and 30th.
You can also book tickets for the final now – follow the Leicester Square Theatre link above.
