The state of live comedy will be the focus of the opening session of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee’s work aimed at spotlighting previously unheard issues and challenges.
The session is the first in a series of hearings to be held as part of the State of Play inquiry, which invited everyone – from those in the UK creative industries through to people involved in emerging media, and sports that are often overlooked – to send in their ideas on what MPs should be examining. The session will be open to members of the public, and to watch online.
Following lobbying from the Live Comedy Association (LCA), the DCMS select committee has agreed to hold an ‘evidence’ session in late April where a panel of industry representatives will be able to present the size, scale and impact of the live comedy sector across the UK. The review will also provide the opportunity to discuss what barriers are in place to prevent those working in the sector to continue and grow.
The LCA’s first annual sector survey, published in February, found that while the industry generates more than an estimated £1 billion a year, economic factors, precarious working conditions, and inequalities are presenting challenges to its continued success.
The session will take place after Easter with the full line-up of witnesses to be announced.
‘The first session will be a deep dive into the world of live comedy,’ says Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the CMS Committee.
‘Despite its widespread and enduring role in our cultural landscape, we should not be fooled into thinking that it’s always a barrel of laughs for our nation’s stand ups, small venues, festivals and those that make the mirth happen behind the scenes. Like so many other of our successful creative industries it can be a precarious place to be and no joke for those away from the glare of the big stage spotlight.
‘Our session will shine a spotlight on the particular challenges faced by live comedy and whether there is more that can be done to keep the laughter coming.’
To find out more about the select committee click here.
For information about the Live Comedy Association and to join click here.
