The 99 Club has announced the opening of its annual bursary scheme, dedicated to promoting rising female and non-binary stars on the comedy circuit. This prestigious programme is open to all female and non-binary comics embarking on their first full-length solo show at the world-renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Five finalists will be shortlisted to perform in a July showcase at one of the 99 Club’s London venues, which have played host to Funny Women Awards alumni including Sara Pascoe, Maisie Adam and Sarah Millican.
Winners have gone from gifted newcomers, many of whom have featured as winners, finalists and semi-finalists in our Awards, to appearing on the country’s best loved TV shows such as Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week, Taskmaster and Comedy Central’s Roast Battle. Including Helen Bauer, Sikisa, Lara Ricote, Catherine Bohart, Sarah Keyworth, Sophie Duker, Janine Harouni and, most recently, Louise Atkinson and Priya Hall.
A panel of comedy experts will select the top two talents on the night, who will take home an award of £500 for their performances, Three further finalists will receive £100.
The 99 Club is the UK’s largest employer of comedians, and has been named London’s Best Comedy Club in the Chortle Awards for 11 years. Dedicated to platforming diverse voices this bursary programme provides a foundation for the artistic development of exciting new female and non-binary comedians.
Details on how to apply can be found via on the 99 Club website here and applications close on Thursday 20th June.
