New Advisory Panel to Boost Live Comedy Association's Impact

A new advisory panel has been established to support the Live Comedy Association (LCA), bringing together key figures from the UK live comedy sector. This initiative aims to enhance the representation and advocacy for the 1,800 members of the LCA, which was founded during the pandemic to connect and support those in the live comedy industry.

Key Takeaways

• The advisory panel includes producers, comedians, journalists, agents, and academics.

• Katy Koren from Gilded Balloon will chair the panel.

• The LCA is lobbying for recognition of the economic and cultural impact of live comedy.

• Membership remains free and open to all working in the live comedy sector.

Formation of the Advisory Panel

The LCA has announced the formation of an advisory panel composed of industry experts who will meet regularly to provide guidance and support. The panel includes notable figures such as:

• Adnan Ahmed (Sky Studios)

• Donald Taffner Jnr (DLT Entertainment)

• Mick Perrin (Mick Perrin Worldwide)

• Janice Connolly (Comedian)

• Lee Martin (Gag Reflex)

• Dr Sharon Lockyer (Centre for Comedy Studies Research)

• Lynne Parker (Funny Women)

The chair of the panel, Katy Koren, expressed her enthusiasm for the role, highlighting the importance of collaboration to achieve the LCA's goals.

Objectives of the Live Comedy Association

Since its inception, the LCA has focused on several key objectives:

1. Advocacy: Lobbying for support and recognition from policymakers regarding the live comedy sector's contributions.

2. Research: Conducting surveys to gather data on the state of live comedy, with the first survey published in February 2025.

3. Workshops: Offering professional development opportunities for members.

4. Partnerships: Forming strategic alliances with organisations like the Music Venues Trust and the Night Time Industries Association.

Upcoming Parliamentary Meeting

In a significant development, the Culture, Media and Sport Committee will host a parliamentary meeting to discuss the economic, cultural, and social impact of live comedy in the UK. This meeting is a direct result of the LCA's advocacy efforts and aims to address the challenges faced by the sector.

Future Plans and Membership

The advisory panel will convene three times a year to ensure that the LCA's initiatives align with the needs of its members. Co-chairs Jessica Toomey and David Elphick have expressed their excitement about the panel's formation and the potential for further contributions from other industry members.

Membership in the LCA remains free and is open to anyone involved in the live comedy sector, ensuring that all voices can be heard and represented. The next members' meeting is scheduled for next Wednesday via Zoom, providing an opportunity for further engagement and discussion.

As the LCA continues to grow and evolve, the establishment of this advisory panel marks a pivotal step in strengthening the support network for live comedy professionals across the UK.

Sources

• Live Comedy Experts To Support Live Comedy Association, Beyond The Joke.

• Industry figures set to aid the Live Comedy Association : Other news 2025 : Chortle : The UK Comedy Guide, Chortle.