The 99 Club in London has begun welcoming applications for its female and non-binary comedians bursary. This programme is open to all female and non-binary artists who are taking their first full length solo comedy show to the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival – a major step in a comedian’s career.
Five shortlisted comedians will appear in a showcase at one of their West End venues in June, where their performances will be judged by a panel of top industry professionals. Two comics will each receive an award of £500, with the other three finalists receiving a £100 award.
The 99 Club is the UK’s largest employer of comedians, and has been named London’s Best Comedy Club in the Chortle Awards for 10 years running. The 99 Club was also able to support creatives during Covid, paying nearly £200k in fees before returning to their live club nights. The club has a regular roster of incredibly talented female and non-binary comedians featuring Maisie Adam, Sarah Millican and Ellie Taylor to name a few.
Past bursary recipients include Funny Women Awards alumni Sophie Duker, Catherine Bohart, Lara Ricote and Sarah Keyworth who have gone on to appear on the country’s best loved television shows such as Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week, Taskmaster and Comedy Central’s Roast Battle.
Speaking about the bursary, a 99 Club representative commented: “We value our ability to offer a platform for diverse voices, and look forward to working with many more wonderful female and non-binary comics. We are honoured and privileged to provide a foundation for the artistic development of these exciting new comedians.”
Details on how to apply for the bursary can be found here. Hurry as deadline fast approaching, Thursday 1st June.
Pictured above: L to R top – Sian Davies, Sikisa, Lily Phillips, bottom – Lara Ricote and Ania Magliano, Bursary acts 2022.
