Scottish actor, writer and comedian Nikola was one of the 10 2023 Stage Award finalists, impressing the judges with her musical and alternative character comedy. Her comedy films have been screened at film festivals including the London Super Short film festival, Women X film festival, ShortCom Film festival, Greenwich Film Festival and Lit Laughs Film Festival. She is currently working with BBC Scotland on a series of online comedy sketches. We chatted to her about online comedy, the importance of Funny Women and what’s next for her career.
How did you get into stand up?
I began by posting comedy sketches online and then I was lucky enough to win the Comedy Short Award in the 2020 Funny Women Awards, which prompted me to start performing my material live.
What was it like being a finalist in the 2023 Funny Women Awards?
Incredible! I was in total disbelief that I actually made it to the finals. The whole experience was amazing and the environment backstage was so supportive. It didn’t feel like a competition at all.
Why is Funny Women important to you?
My whole comedy career began with Funny Women and I wouldn’t be doing it today without them. To say they are important to me is an understatement.
Tell us about your comedy style.
I’d say my comedy style is an irreverent mix of musical comedy and sketch. I’ve always been drawn to the more alternative styles of comedy and ironically, I feel much more myself when I’m performing as someone or something else.
What’s next for you?
I am currently working with BBC Scotland on a series of online sketches which will be filmed this December, which I’m very excited about. I’d also like to get a show together too and start creating an hour.
Who are your favourite Funny Women?
Julie Walters, Gemma Collins, Daisy May Cooper, Diane Morgan and Amy Poehler. My mum is also a riot.
What do you love about stand up?
I love how varied stand-up can be and how consistently creative humans are at making people laugh.
You can follow Nikola on Instagram and on her website.
You can follow Funny Women on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Images by Steve Ullathorne
