I’m still buzzing from the amazing 2025 Funny Women Awards Grand Final sponsored by BBC Studios digital channel Funny Parts! This event is always the biggest in our year and it didn’t disappoint. Rather than write a new article about my personal experience, I’m sharing my welcome speech below as it says everything I really want to say.
‘It’s fantastic to see you all here tonight at the glorious Bloomsbury Theatre! It’s been a very busy summer travelling, curating, and seeing amazing talent from all over the UK, Ireland, Europe and beyond — it’s a real joy to finally bring it all together on this stage.
‘This year we had nearly 2,000 entries and nominations across our five awards, including over 450 entries for the Stage Award alone. From 16 live and online heats and three semi-finals, the 10 brilliant acts you’ll see performing live tonight have risen to the very top. They are competing for the coveted Stage Award, which will be decided by an army of judges from across the industry, sitting amongst you tonight.
‘To get ALL the details on the acts, nominees, finalists and judges click here to see the programme.
‘Funny Women is more than just competition — it’s an incredible community and together with a whole family of collaborators, we are part of a growing movement that is changing the face of comedy forever.
‘Alongside the Awards, we’ve been creating initiatives like The Glitter Project — a safe and supportive place for women and non-binary people to connect, share, and create together – and Comedy in the Community – building confidence in the workplace and supporting local leadership. That spirit of encouragement and collaboration is what makes nights like this so special.
‘For me, this is personal. I started Funny Women over 20 years ago after a comedy promoter told me that “women aren’t funny” and “there are no funny women.” Well, look around tonight — this is proof of just how wrong he was! And it’s why we keep doing this — to nurture, celebrate, and amplify brilliant new voices.
‘We’ve also got some wonderful alumnae back with us: the fabulous Amy Gledhill is hosting, Rachel Parris will headline with her brilliant musical comedy, and Kate Cheka, who won our last Stage Award, will be performing.
‘And of course, a big thank you to our sponsors, BBC Studios’ digital channel Funny Parts, for supporting us and helping us showcase originality, diversity, and sheer comedic brilliance.
‘So, buckle up for an evening of big laughs, bold voices, and plenty of surprises. Whether you’re here to discover your new favourite comedian or to cheer on the finalists, you are part of a glittering celebration of female and non-binary comedy.
‘Let’s make this a night to remember — and get the 2025 Funny Women Awards Grand Final started!’
Safe to say, we did! It was an incredible show and thanks again to the amazing team that comes together to make these wonderful Awards happen.
Thanks to Mariana Feijo and Roxy JC for the photos of me in action!
