Getting into comedy: All you need to know

Chortle to host beginners' seminar

Chortle is to stage a day-long conference for new and aspiring comedians, offering invaluable tips on all aspects of the industry.

Headlining the seminar will be in-depth sessions with award-winning stand-up Milton Jones and Sam Bain, one of the co-creators of Peep Show.

Other sessions will feature top comedy agents and bookers giving advice on what they are looking for; an explanation of the complex ins and outs of performing at the Edinburgh Fringe with venue-owners, publicists and critics; and a session in association with trade union Equity offering tips on tax, benefits and the legal side of comedy.

There will also be the chance to hear from top TV and radio commissioners and programme-makers about what they are looking for, and giving advice on how to get your idea off the ground.

In short, every practical aspect of the business side will be covered, with expert advice those in the know.

Every session will feature the chance to ask your own question, plus there will be networking opportunities over coffee breaks and lunch, which is all provided.

The event takes place at the Soho Theatre, London, from 9.30am to 5.30pm on Wednesday May 25; and a detailed schedule will be released next week.

Tickets for the event cost £95 – although an early-bird price of £80 is available until May 3. (There is an additional £10 discount for anyone who has ever performed in any of our Student Comedy Award heats, providing you are still a student)

Additionally, Chortle will subsidise at least five bursary places for those out of work or on low incomes (although not students in full-time education unless there are exceptional circumstances) at just £15 each. To apply for one of these places, email steve@chortle.co.uk with a brief description of your circumstances, what steps you have already taken to get into comedy, and email addresses of referees.

Complete this form to secure your place: