Training and Development
Development Programmes
There are a number of formal and informal development opportunities for people working in live comedy. Here are some of them - if you know of others, please let us know as we are always keen to add to this list.
Best in Class
Seven from Seven – Seven Dials Playhouse
Circuit Breakers – Leicester Comedy Festival
Bridging the Gap – Leicester Comedy Festival
Comedy Artist Development Programme – Little Wander
The Glitter Project – Funny Women
We know Luke Rollason has previously organised his “Luke Rollason Memorial Bursary” but don’t currently have a link for further information. If anyone has more details, please let us know.
The Freelancers’ Handbook (Arts Council England)
The Freelancers’ Handbook is a free resource from Arts Council England offering practical support to freelancers across the cultural sector and the organisations they work with. The Handbook covers essential topics including fair pay and what to do about late payment, accessing funding, continuing professional development, and looking after your mental health and wellbeing. With so much of the live comedy industry powered by freelancers, including comedians, promoters, producers and technicians, we’d recommend it to anyone working independently in comedy, as well as to the venues and organisations that engage them.
Read the Freelancers’ Handbook
Digital Masterclasses
We’ve scoured YouTube for the best hints and tips for getting started in the world of online video sharing and/or improving their quality. Including: vlogging, live streaming, sketches, Zoom gigs and even TikTok! Enjoy.
Mike Chudley: How to VLOG on your phone
Think Media: Live Streaming Setup for Beginners
Daniel Schiffer: How to Talk to the Camera!
HotandFlashy: How to Look Good on Video Calls
Delaney Media: Video Lighting Setup
Think Media: How to Get Better Audio in Your Videos
Shutterstock Tutorials: 9 Cuts Every Editor Should Know
Roberto Blake: 5 Tips for Making Thumbnails
Techboomers: How to Make TikTok Videos
LCA Panel Discussion 2025: Next steps on stage: Life after Edinburgh Fringe
Please contact us with any additions for this page.