The search is on for the next Irish
comic
By Elaine Sheridan
Could you be the next Father Ted? Well if you think so then this year’s
Manchester Irish Festival is looking for you.
Organisers are hoping to uncover the next comedy genius at their Comedian-of-the-Year
competition set to be held in March.
In the past the festival has played host to some of Ireland’s biggest
comedy talents including Irish Post Award winner Ardal O’Hanlon,
Ed Byrne, Brendan Grace and newcomer Andrew Maxwell.
Now organisers are hoping that this year they’ll unearth fresh Irish
talent onto the ever-increasing comedy circuit.
Festival chairman Lawrence Hennigan said: “The Irish Festival has
been a launch pad for some of Britain and Ireland’s biggest names
in comedy.
“Ardal O’Hanlon launched the very first Irish festival in
Levenshulme back in 1995 during which time he was starring in Channel
4’s hit comedy Father Ted.
“Peter Kay whose Irish roots stem from Achill Island in Mayo was
another comedian who played the festival lately.
“The competition is aimed at continuing that tradition of uncovering
the next comedy genius with Irish roots and to give them a helping hand
on the way to stardom.”
This year’s contest is being run and promoted by The Laughing Stockport
Road Comedy Club and with a cash prize of £250 it is open to wannabe
comedians who have Irish roots — parents or grandparents.
The first heat will be held on Thursday, January 11 at the M19 Bar on
Stockport Road.
Heat two will be held on Thursday, February 8 and the final heat takes
place on Thursday, March 8.
The Grand Final will then take place on Monday, March 19 and this event
will also form the closing party to this year’s Manchester Irish
Festival.
This two-week-long Manchester Irish Festival will run from March 3-18
with various events taking place throughout the programme.
Comedians wishing to enter the comedy competition can contact Luke on
07784 551 783 or email bigheadmedia@hotmail.com
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