Best in Class is a crowd-funded, profit sharing show that champions the talent of working-class comedians. The project was set up in 2018 by 2019 Funny Women Awards runner up Sian Davies, a working-class comedian from Liverpool.
Having experienced first hand the various barriers working-class comics can have trying to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe, Sian decided to set up Best in Class. Over the last two years, Best In Class has supported 16 working-class comedians to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe. The acts work tirelessly throughout the year to crowdfund the costs involved. Crucially, none of the acts pay to participate in the show and they all received payment for the work they do.
Best In Class alumni have gone on to achieve fantastic successes within their comedy careers. Acts have signed for agents, gained TV work, created sell-out shows and had critically acclaimed work. Best In Class has been represented in the finals of some of the biggest comedy competitions in the UK, including the BBC New Comedy Award, Funny Women Awards, Leicester Mercury Comedian of the year and So You Think You’re Funny? Our acts have also provided tour support for industry legends Kiri Pritchard-McLean, Fern Brady and Jason Manford.
Plans for Best In Class 2020 are now in full swing. Applications are open, fundraising has begun and shows are already planned for Leicester Comedy Festival, Vault Festival, Brighton Fringe and Greater Manchester Fringe.
“I had a great time with Best In Class – I made new friends and it enabled me to perform at Edinburgh Fringe when I absolutely couldn’t have done otherwise.” Kathryn Mather
“Best in class was an invaluable experience for me. I never would have got the chance to develop my stand up in front of sold-out rooms every day at the fringe without the backing and support of best in class. (And to walk away with money to cover some of my costs was a flipping great bonus!)” Charlie George
Applications are now open for working-class comedians who would like to be part of the 2020 team. Acts commit to a week at the fringe, they arrange their own travel and accommodation. They will fundraise in the run-up, taking part in showcases, interviews and other events. Whilst at the fringe they will be involved in flyering and the day to day running of the show. They must not already be taking part in another show but are encouraged to seek spots on compilation shows during their time at the fringe. Acts pay nothing to be part of the show and are all paid for their contribution from the profit that is made.
Applications close at 6.00pm TODAY! Apply to take part by clicking here!
Donate to Best in Class here!
