The Funny Women Awards 2022 are open! Since launching in 2003 the Awards have added exciting new categories, making them even more accessible to funny women across the world. In celebration we talked to our Awards producers, starting with our editor and live producer, Kate Stone…
Funny Women: Tell us about the Awards category you produce.
Kate Stone: I produce the Comedy Writing Award category, which has been going since 2011 and produced by me since 2019.
We invite you to send in a treatment and 10 consecutive pages of your comedy script, these will be read and marked by the Funny Women team as well as people from the comedy broadcast industry. Those who make it to the shortlist will get valuable feedback.
FW: What is your favourite thing about producing this category?
KS: Apart from reading some hilarious scripts and getting drunk on power, my favourite thing is being a small part of someone’s comedy career. In 10 years’ time if I am not in at least one comedian’s autobiography I will absolutely spit.
I love finding out how a winner or shortlisted writer’s career has developed since entering the Awards, for instance, last year’s winner Kathryn Bond now has: “the support of an amazing writing agent and [I] have been developing ideas with some brilliant production companies. As well as writing for screen, I am also writing a new stand-up show called Pleaser and a play. Huge thank you to the brilliant Funny Women team.”
FW: Is there anything specific you look for in a Comedy Writing Awards winner?
KS: Well, like everyone, I look for a funny script. Thanks to our brilliant readers and judging panel, however, it’s not entirely up to me – but we ask them to take into account the plot, dialogue, originality, and marketability.
FW: Any advice for those thinking of entering?
KS: Oh my goodness, proofread. You don’t need to worry about fancy script software, you do have to worry your script makes sense. Get as many eyes on your script as you can, be extra, have a table read if you want. It’s the best way to pick up on plotholes or find out what jokes just aren’t landing.
Ultimately though, in the words of sports giant Nike: ‘Just do it’. Is that what everyone says? Yes, but that’s because it’s true.
Entries for the Funny Women Comedy Writing Award close on 1st June, to find out more click here!
