An amazing crowdfunding project that will enable 20 to 25 women to receive free training in sketch writing, voice acting and putting together a comedy podcast has been launched by Funny Women Awards finalist and alumni Jane Postlethwaite.
Character Building, is a character and sketch comedy podcast that showcases the work of women, produced by Jane and Steph Bradshaw.
Jane is also rebooting her previous comedy Fringe shows Made in Cumbria and The House, as well as HAUNTED, her latest Brighton Fringe show which was created with Steph.
Jane believes that there are not enough women getting recognition in comedy or the industry in general. Citing the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film, the comedian notes that in the top 100 grossing films of 2018, women only represented:
- 4% of directors
- 15% of writers
- 3% of cinematographers
- 18% of producers
- 18% of executive producers
- 14% of editors
These stats have inspired Jane: ‘I want to try to do my bit to change this and train women from all different backgrounds with comedy skills, get them into writing or performing comedy and working alongside others doing the same.’
Explaining her move into making podcasts of her comedy shows, Jane says: ‘I know from experience that putting on live shows is very expensive and time consuming especially at the fringe festivals. Making a podcast cuts costs compared to putting on a live show as the sketches and characters can be set anywhere and you don’t need props or costume. For example, the show could be set in outer space.
‘Recording a podcast is also flexible as you have portable equipment and can set up remotely. Not everyone can find time to watch comedy shows live, so by doing a comedy podcast the work becomes more accessible. Plus you can listen for free while on the move and from anywhere in the world.’
The target amount of £4,000 will pay for equipment, studio time and travel costs and support our growing community of creative women. To find out more and lend your support click here!
