Parliamentary Committee Urges Government Action for Live Comedy Sector

The Culture, Media and Sport (CMS) Committee has intensified its calls for greater government support for the live comedy sector, highlighting the need for its distinct recognition to unlock crucial funding opportunities. The committee has been actively engaging with the government since last summer, advocating for policies that address the unique challenges faced by grassroots comedians and venues.

Key Takeaways

• The live comedy sector requires formal recognition as a distinct art form to improve access to funding.

• The government is urged to establish a freelance champion to support creative industry workers.

• Consideration is being given to extending the grassroots music levy model to the live comedy sector.

• The committee is monitoring progress on a ministerial comedy roundtable and industry standards.

Recognition as a Distinct Art Form

The CMS Committee has consistently argued that the unique characteristics of live comedy, including its infrastructure, workforce, and audience engagement, have historically prevented it from accessing funding streams available to other creative industries. In a letter to the government, MPs emphasized that this oversight must end, proposing that live comedy be formally recognised as a distinct art form. This recognition is seen as a vital first step towards ensuring the sector receives appropriate consideration and funding from bodies like Arts Council England.

Support for the Grassroots Sector

Ahead of Live Comedy Day, the committee pressed the government for an update on its commitments to the sector. While acknowledging the recent ministerial comedy roundtable as a positive development, the committee stressed that significant work remains. Discussions have included the potential adoption of a voluntary scheme, similar to the grassroots music levy, to support live comedy venues, producers, and promoters. The committee also highlighted the importance of comedy festivals, such as the Edinburgh Fringe, while noting concerns about rising costs potentially limiting participation and diversity.

Addressing Workforce and Standards

Beyond funding, the committee has also focused on the welfare of those working within the live comedy industry. The appointment of a freelance champion is considered an urgent necessity to represent the diverse needs of creative professionals. Furthermore, the committee is monitoring the progress of CIISA, an industry-led body aimed at upholding standards of behaviour within the creative industries, ensuring that the live comedy sector is adequately represented and supported.

Sources

• CMS Committee presses Government on support for live comedy sector - Committees, UK Parliament.

• Live comedy: CMS Committee publishes update on Government’s support for grassroots sector - Committees, UK Parliament.

• MPs call for live comedy to be recognised as distinct art form to open up funding access - Committees, UK Parliament.