Awards may become a formal bash

Next year's Perrier winner could be announced at a formal awards ceremony like the British Comedy Awards.

The most prized award in live comedy is usually handed over at a party on the last Saturday of the Fringe.

Though the party is a highlight of the fringe, it makes for shambolic television, not always well-received by broadcasters. And this year's announcement will not be televised at all.

Perrier director Nica Burns told actors' newspaper The Stage that a major revamp is planned.

So next year's big-budget event, produced for Channel 4, is likely be a more entertainment-based show, rather than the televised party.

* Pleasance director Christopher Richardson has threatened to block promoters who try to raise ticket prices above £12, The Stage also reports.

Published: 15 Aug 2002