MPs to examine challenges in live comedy

Challenges facing live comedy will be the focus of the opening session of the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee’s work examining issues in the creative industries that are often overlooked.

As part of the committee’s State of Play inquiry, the people from the creative industries were asked to suggest what MPs should be examining. Following more than 250 submissions, topics chosen for sessions over the coming months are business events, deaf athletes, play facilities and touring in the EU. More subjects will be chosen later in the parliament.

The comedy hearing, proposed by the Live Comedy Association, which represents those working in the industry, will examine the economic, cultural and social impact of live performance on the UK, and the challenges faced by the sector.

Chair of the committee, Conservative MP Caroline Dinenage, said: “Despite its widespread and enduring role in our cultural landscape, we should not be fooled into thinking that it’s always a barrel of laughs for our nation’s stand-ups, small venues, festivals and those that make the mirth happen behind the scenes.

“Like so many other of our successful creative industries, it can be a precarious place to be and no joke for those away from the glare of the big stage spotlight.

“Our session will shine a spotlight on the particular challenges faced by live comedy and whether there is more that can be done to keep the laughter coming.”