18 performers and one promoter aided by hardship fund

Eighteen comedians and one promoter have shared a £5,000 hardship fund for those hit by the financial chaos engulfing Leicester Comedy Festival.

The fund came from the Live Comedy Association to help those left struggling because their ticket income remains unpaid five months after the troubled event.

Yesterday, Chortle revealed that the Big Difference venue run by the same people behind the festival has been forced to shut after the landlord took back possession over unpaid rent.

Jessica Toomey, director of the Live Comedy Association, said: ‘It’s regrettable that our members find themselves in need of support and have been impacted by non-payment of ticket money earned during Leicester Comedy Festival 2026. However, we are pleased to have been able to provide some immediate financial assistance for people who are in hardship. 

‘We very sadly know that the amount of money owed is far greater than the £5,000 we have awarded today. We will continue to work with our members to monitor the situation and provide additional support where we can.

‘If people are able to donate to the Stand Up And Give Fund the money will enable us to continue to support the grassroots live comedy sector across the UK.’

Published: 8 Jul 2026