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.
Tue 22 November 2011
Sat 19 November 2011
Why ads aren't bad
Liam Mullone believes comics shouldn't be reviled for taking the money
19/11/2011 … So we’re all agreed then? Doing adverts is terrible.
Fri 18 November 2011
You can't teach 'funny'
Joshua Ross on the folly of comedy courses
18/11/2011 … I was talking to a comic at an open mic night about comedy courses – when he found out I’d not been on one, he argued that I should do it right away.
Thu 17 November 2011
Venting an opinion
John Fleming on Nina Conti's new film
17/11/2011 … I have always been a bit wary of ventriloquists.
Sun 13 November 2011
Life's too short for integrity
Marc Blake on Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant's new sitcom
13/11/2011 … If integrity is akin to a prosperous bank account, then Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant’s new Sitcom Life’s Too Short proves that they are heading for a bankruptcy…
Fri 11 November 2011
Should comedy be taken seriously?
Jerry Sadowitz shares his thoughts...
11/11/2011 … I REALLY find it offensive when I hear gags about people with mental disabilities.
Wed 09 November 2011
Can you have comedy with a conscience?
Jahnavi Goldstein wrestles with her ethics
09/11/2011 … I love comedy, I love making people laugh and I treasure the ability and gift comedians have to turn pain into the powerful solace of laughter.
Mon 07 November 2011
When is a joke racist?
John Fleming shares his thoughts
07/11/2011 … I normally try not to quote from people’s stage acts but, occasionally, American comedian Lewis Schaffer mentions on stage that an Edinburgh Fringe reviewer once…