The Live Comedy Association (LCA) has launched a major new fund aimed to support the grassroots UK live comedy sector. ‘Stand Up And Give‘ is an umbrella campaign to raise money to feed back into the sector to support comedians, promoters, festivals, venues, clubs and other people working across the UK.
The fund initially aims to raise £50,000 before Christmas and organisers say it will support people working in the sector with training and development opportunities as well as other initiatives. Stand Up And Give will also help support the lobbying of the government and projects, including those that use laughter and comedy to improve mental health and wellbeing. Pledges can be made by visiting https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/stand-up-give.
Jessica Toomey, co-chair of the LCA, said “we have been thrilled with the support we have received over the last couple of years from people working in live comedy who welcome having a membership organisation that represents them. We have seen some considerable progress, with MPs recognising live comedy as being important and a higher profile of the contribution our sector makes to the UK. Our economic impact is estimated to be in excess of £1billion each year, but we know we also contribute to positive mental health, vibrant communities, and the development of our artform.“
Live comedy receives no government support and is not included or recognised formally as part of the creative industries. Support from the wider comedy industry is vital to change this and get live comedy on the agenda.
Stand Up And Give is a new fund which will support all of this and much more. We have watched in awe what our colleagues in the grassroots live music sector have been doing, and the support they have received from people working in live music as well as fans. The principle is now clear that people want to give back to emerging musicians and bands, but also festivals, venues and others working in that sector. The live comedy fund is starting with an appeal for donations via the crowd funder, but it will grow and include other donations and fundraising events and activities.
“It really feels like there is a change happening in live comedy and people are understanding the importance of it,” continues Jessica. “There is also a real need for us all to support one another, and build our community, to ensure the future of what we do.”
You can find out more about the Live Comedy Association and how you can get involved here.
You can donate to Stand Up and Give here.
