Latest Opinions
Chortle's Opinions section is an arena for fans to share their views on any aspect of comedy.
We invite general comment pieces about particular aspects of the comedy scene (although reviews of individual shows or performers tend not to be suited to this section except in very rare circumstances). Contributions should be at least 500 words in length, in a similar tone to something you might read in a broadsheet newspaper, and emailed to steve@chortle.co.uk
We reserve the right to edit pieces – although we will be careful not to change the meaning of anything – or not to use them at all. By submitting an article you grant Chortle indefinite licence to use it freely; though you retain the copyright on it to use it elsewhere.
Fri 28 December 2012
Thu 13 December 2012
Thanks, but no pranks
Simon Lipson regrets ever doing wind-up comedy
13/12/2012 … Nobody could fail to be moved by the death of nurse Jacintha Saldanha, the victim of a prank call by a couple of Australian radio presenters last week.
Mon 10 December 2012
Is improv better? You couldn’t make it up!
Paul Ricketts prefers a solo experience
10/12/2012 … I’m not a huge fan of improv, but when it’s done well, it’s hugely entertaining combining audience participation and instant quick witted characterisation.
Fri 07 December 2012
Never leave them wanting more
Paul Tonkinson's approach to touring
07/12/2012 … At the age of 43, and after nigh on 20 years doing stand-up, I am doing my first tour of the UK.
Thu 06 December 2012
Stop whining - comedy is the best job in the world!
James Mullinger counts his blessings
06/12/2012 … I’ll tell you what the real problem with the comedy industry right now is.
Wed 05 December 2012
Why improv is better than stand-up
Gareth Morinan goes off-script
05/12/2012 … A lot of people seem pretty adamant that there are too many stand-ups these days.
Tue 04 December 2012
Cheque to follow...
Ryan McDonnell on comedy's hidden problem: Promoters who are slow to pay
04/12/2012 … The contraction of the 'comedy boom' has been well documented.
Sat 01 December 2012
Shouldn't comedy be more than 'conversation plus'?
By Chortle editor Steve Bennett
01/12/2012 … Remember that old Monty Python sketch when Michael Palin pays to have argument? The gag is surely in the preposterous idea that someone would hand over good money…