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Sane New World

January 31, 2015 by Becca Moody Leave a Comment

Sane New WorldI have an immense amount of respect for Ruby Wax, not just as a comedian, and not just because she has worked so hard throughout her life to help end the stigma on mental illness, but because she also actually does something to help those affected. Sane New World acts as an introduction to the phenomenon that is Mindfulness; it provides exercises to try as well as evidence of their effectiveness.

With clear influences of Mark Williams (a professor of psychology who wrote the most important book I’ve ever read), Wax makes it her goal to teach her readership a little more about something too few of us truly understand: our own brains, and for those who are not regular mindfulness practicers, Sane New World has the potential to be an absolute life-changer.

It is not an autobiography or memoir, nor is it a self-help book. Sane New World is a little bit of everything, a ‘manual’, and a piece of comedy in itself. Wax has brought her sharp tongue and uncompromising sense of humour to a topic that many of us don’t enjoy discussing, but she writes sensitively, with frequent references to her own experiences with depression.

“The organ that allows you to realise the world understands so little about itself”

This book teaches us that we’re all mad: our brains are still doing things that were required to keep us alive when we were cave dwellers, such as the way our focus is not wired to stay ‘in the present’ for too long because tens of thousands of years ago we needed to be able to recall past experiences and anticipate future ones to avoid getting killed. In the modern world, however, this means that we are constantly floundering as our brains are simply not wired to pay too much attention to what’s happening right now at any given time, and the problem arises from the fact that we are no longer being hunted in such a way that requires us to think ahead instead of thinking about the now.

But Ruby hasn’t aimed to make us feel bad about the fact we have such little control over own brains, but rather the opposite: Sane New World is a book that brings a positivity, a hope that we can change the way our brains work for the better. Empathetic, kind and comforting, this fantastic comic has entertained and educated us in this all-inclusive novel, which is laugh-out-loud-funny in places.

It teaches that our brains have plasticity and can change. Our brains and our minds are not the same thing. Our thoughts are not ‘us’, they are a by-product of ‘us’. All the answers are there, we just need to acknowledge them. In the year or so that I have been learning Mindfulness, my life has completely transformed and I genuinely feel like a different person.

Photo- Clara Molden

Eg. “Researchers from Stanford University have found that mindfulness can help with social anxiety by reducing reactivity in the amygdala, an area of the brain that is typically overactive in those with anxiety problems.”

“Researchers from Toronto and Exeter in the UK recently found that learning mindfulness, while tapering off anti-depressants, was as effective as remaining on medication.”

This isn’t just a book for those studying psychology, those interested in help for sufferers of mental health issues, or seeking therapy for themselves. It is, in fact, a book for everyone: school students, people in work, people out of work, old or young. I want to assist Ruby in spreading the word about this simple technique. This is a book that I have been excited to tell all my friends about, and plan on lending it to as many that will listen to my recommendations.

“I hope if nothing else we move to a world where it’s not survival of the fittest, but survival of the wisest.”

PURCHASE RUBY WAX’S ‘SANE NEW WORLD’ HERE, AND ‘MINDFULNESS’ BY MARK WILLIAMS AND DANNY PENMAN HERE.

Posted in: Books, Comedians Tagged: Mindfulness, Ruby Wax, Sane New World

Seven Questions With… Elf Lyons

January 27, 2015 by Becca Moody 1 Comment
Elf Lyons is vibrant and uncompromising; a woman of the people with a warm, friendly charm. This lady was clearly born to perform, and not just in a public speaking sense, but in an extravagant and physical style of comedy that few seem to be creating these days. Elf, who’s comedy is often compared to that of Noel Fielding, hits London in early February with her new show, Being Barbarella. If you need energising, or just want some new talent to watch, check out this refreshingly real and exhilarating performer.
I asked Elf these seven questions to learn a little more about her…

1) What is the first thing you think of every morning?

More often than not my thought process in the morning tends to go like this: First, “Why is the woman upstairs vacuuming at 6am?”, secondly; “I’m never drinking three bottles of Prosecco again,”  then, “How did I get home?”, then, “Please God let there be coffee in the kitchen”, then, “I should probably go to the gym and think about what I’ve done with my life”, then finally ‘NO. Bad idea. I’ll just eat a croissant in bed and write a new bit of material instead. WISE”, followed by “WHY IS SHE STILL VACUUMING??”

However, if I am being a normal adult woman (which is what I am 99% of the time because I am very mature) I tend to wake up every day around 7.30am, turn to my left, look at the ‘To-Do List’ I write religiously the night before (just before I go to sleep usually- this is one of the great superpowers OCD gives you: ‘uber organisation’) and follow/complete the to-does I’ve set myself. It always starts with the first point: ‘WAKE UP’ and then ‘GET COFFEE’. If I can get all the admin-rubbish done as early as possible in the day, it gives me more time to be creative and make work for the rest of the day. And go to the cinema.

Photo: Pippa Moyle

Photo: Pippa Moyle

2) What was your favourite subject at school?

Art. I used to draw all my teachers in class, used to make up characters in my head and I was obsessed with Pastels and making a mess. Also, you were allowed to listen to the RADIO in class! #winning. I am so at peace when I am drawing – I used to sketch lots of comics live when I first started and am proud to say I have a lovely lil drawing of James Acaster from 2010 in my journal at home!

When I was life-drawing I used to listen to comedy podcasts on my iPod. However, my teacher had to ask me to stop listening to them when I was drawing. When I asked why, he explained that I kept on laughing randomly during the sessions and it was making Miles, our life model, very nervous. He thought I was laughing manically at him and his flaccid member, however, I had to explain I wasn’t laughing as his naked body but was in was in fact giggling at the comedy of The Mighty Boosh. Easy misunderstanding.

When I left Uni I ended up getting a job as a life-model. Most of my parent’s friends didn’t know what that was, so I just told them I was a ‘lazy stripper’. My parents were thrilled.

3) Something that you’re afraid of?

Seals. I am terrified of seals. They are the underwater equivalent of Samara from The Ring and look like the type of animal Hades would keep as a pet in the Underworld. Big fat blubbery demetor mammals with eyes like black snooker balls. THERE IS NOTHING CUTE ABOUT THOSE EYES. THOSE ARE THE EYES OF A PSYCOPATH. I have no problem with seals being eaten by sharks. I tried to explain this to a man I met on the tube once. He moved seats.

4) What is the worst month of the year?

I’m gonna be blunt and say that March is pretty pointless. I personally think we have too many months with 31 days anyway and I’d argue that March could possibly just get cut and we could double up and have a 61 day June – as June is the absolute best. Although we have international ‘Save a Spider Day’ on March 14th, I’d go so far to say this is the only redeeming feature of March. March is named after Mars who was the Roman God of War, and next to seals, I absolutely hate war and I don’t think we should have a month that encourages it. Also if you were born in March, chances are you are either an Aries or Pisces and as a Gemini (again, June is the best) I have never had a successful Tinder date with either.

5) Who is your comedy hero?

My dad. He’s always saying very funny, dry jokes. For example, when I ask him, “Hey dad! Do you love me?”, he always replies with the phrase, “What are the choices?”. Never gets old. Never.

He was born in March.

Other than that, my comedy heroes have always been Dave Allen, Emo Phillips, Noel Fielding and French & Saunders.

6) What’s your opinion on celebrity culture?

I can’t wait to be a part of it. If it helps one get a ‘Black Nandos’ card to eat free in my favourite chicken establishment or be able to get 35687,0000000 likes on Instagram for a picture of my puppy, Khaleesi, I am all for it.  Also, by ‘celebrity culture’ I assume you also mean the other western translation meaning ‘Kim Kardashian’s bottom?”. That is a very important part of celebrity culture, and I’d argue to some extent a global issue. Any woman that can happily risk balancing a bottle of expensive champagne (or Prosecco, she may be on a budget) on her oiled posterior all for the sake of breaking the internet (very important issue right now) gets a high five from me. Mainly because if there is one thing I think that is lacking at the moment, it is highly suggestive and sexualised imagery of powerful women doing impractical things with kitchen appliances and home goods! AM I RIGHT LADIES???

7) What would you like people to take away from your comedy?

A chair. Chairs at comedy gigs are often very comfortable and if you enjoyed the gig i think it’s wise to take* the chair you laughed in home with you, so you can sit in and go “ah, this is my fun chair”.

A memory. The type of memory that one can sit and think about fondly in one’s fun chair and go “Ah… that was a fun gig.”

A picture of my face. Like a religious memento, that one can look upon and cry fondly over.

*some would say ‘steal’.

BUY TICKETS FOR NEXT WEEK’S LONDON RUN OF ELF LYONS: BEING BARBARELLA

SEVEN QUESTIONS WITH…

Posted in: Comedians, Seven Questions With... Tagged: Being Barbarella, British Comedy, Comedy, Elf Lyons, Interview, Seven Questions With

Seven Questions With… Lloyd Griffith

January 24, 2015 by Becca Moody 1 Comment
Today I present to you a man of many surprises: a choir boy, a fire engine fanatic; a man who can do a brilliant impression of sellotape. Lloyd Griffith is a very funny guy with a very unique take on the concept of stand up comedy who manages to incorporate detailed autobiographical anecdotes and spot on observations as well musical interludes. Here we have a comedian who will soon be appearing on every television show under the sun, if his latest Sweat The Small Stuff and BBC Radio 1’s Live Lounge Comedy Club are anything to go by.
I asked him these seven questions to find out more…

1) What’s the best thing about modern day technology?

Pretending that we’re doing interviews face to face. Nobody will know if this interview is face to face or not. Sure, you could have a photo of you and I together but that can be done by photoshop. The whole world is fake because of modern technology. Why are you looking at me like that? It’s the truth Becca.

Meeting Lloyd Griffith, January 2015

Meeting Lloyd Griffith, January 2015

2) What’s your favourite film of all time?

Very good question.

3) Which five comedians would be on your perfect line up?

Alive: Lee Mack, Sean Lock, Terry Alderton, Daniel Kitson, Me.

Dead: Lee Mack, Sean Lock, Terry Alderton, Daniel Kitson, Me.

4) Best/worst nightmare you’ve ever had?

The other night I had a dream that I had a flip phone like people had in 2004. People were shouting at me in the street as though I was a child murderer because I had a flip phone. Whenever I went into a phone shop to try and get an upgrade they had security remove me from the shop. It was awful. I woke up in tears. 

5) Which is your favourite British city?

Tough one this Becca. Very good question. My rating of cities is based on Cathedrals and Football stadia. If it’s a draw, I’ll use fire stations as the deciding factor. You see, Durham has a very nice cathedral (my 5th fave), yet has no proper football stadium. On the flip side (not flip phone, lol) Brighton has a very nice football stadium but no Cathedral. Now, Liverpool has two very good football stadiums and two VERY interesting Cathedrals, but, I have to say that Exeter is my favourite city after London and Grimsby. 

6) Does the lifestyle of a working comedian suit you?

Oh totes babez. I spend the day at home in my Grimsby Town shorts eating soup (homemade pea and ham at the moment, got myself an hand blender in the January sales didn’t I?!) and writing jokes. Occasionally people like you come round to do an interview and I make an effort and wear a suit like I’m wearing now, but overall that’s what I do. Then I’ll jump in my Seat Ibiza 1.9 tdi (s) and go tell jokes to people in the evening. I sometimes take a soup with me. Genuinely, I love making people laugh and so when I do that (usually 44% success rate) I’m having a good time. 

7) Are you a rule breaker?

Nah mate. Pretty straight down the line LIKE A RULE. Haha. Please come to my show.

For more information live shows and television appearances, visit Lloyd’s website, or follow him on Twitter at @LloydGriffith.

SEVEN QUESTIONS WITH…

Posted in: Comedians, Seven Questions With... Tagged: British Comedy, Comedy, Interview, Lloyd Griffith, Seven Questions With

Bramall Comedy Night 2015: Ivo Graham, Holly Walsh & Nathan Caton

January 20, 2015 by Becca Moody Leave a Comment

Last Thursday I visited Bramall Hall at the University of Birmingham for the third instalment of their fantastic comedy night. It was great to see a very busy venue this time, as opposed to the relatively small numbers I had seen in previous months, perhaps due to the fact the names on the bill seem to get bigger each month.

Ivo Graham was the night’s compere and showed an impressive ability to build a set around the answers of the few people he questioned, whilst remaining open to the audience as a whole. Only a small portion of what was said was obviously material and Graham seemed to derive most of his laughs from impulsive remarks as his energy bounced of the audience. With a love for Mario Kart, Ivo Graham is a wonderfully endearing loser (like the majority of us deep down) and was able to laugh at himself without it seeming constructed or forced.

First up was Holly Walsh, who I’ve watched for years on numerous television shows, particularly panel shows like Never Mind The Buzzcocks and Mock The Week, but more recently on Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled. Holly brings a lovely enthusiasm to a room and has such a delightfully positive vibe about her, and as she pointed out, she sounds ridiculously sweet when she swears, so it doesn’t have the desired effect. Introducing herself as “Holly. Or if my parents are telling me off, Holiver,” it was great to finally see this funny woman in person.

Nathan Caton

Nathan Caton

Nathan Caton was a name and face that I knew, but I hadn’t seen that much of his stand up as I’d only ever seen him on shows like Mock The Week and Good News. Caton’s personality on stage is brilliant; he is cool and relaxed, with material spanning family, politics and race, amongst others. His impressions of his grandmother got the audience laughing the most, and were my favourite part of the night, as well as his newfound fear of white women in dark alleyways.

This comedy night just keeps getting better and better, and I truly can’t wait for next month (check the line up to see why).

BRAMALL COMEDY NIGHT: DECEMBER 2014

Posted in: Comedians, Live Comedy Tagged: Comedy, Holly Walsh, Ivo Graham, Live Comedy, Nathan Caton

Not Going Out: The End

January 17, 2015 by Becca Moody Leave a Comment

Not Going Out came to its conclusion in December, and has been consistent and homely viewing, with frequent laughs at the characters’ expense. It is silly, frustratingly painful watching (the protagonists get it so wrong every single time) and very rude.

The characters are all familiar by now; we know when Lee is going to do something stupid, or when Frank is going to arrive out of nowhere, or when Daisy is going to say something entirely moronic, and that is all part of the charm. Lee’s dysfunctional family and friends become our own family and friends and it feels like they have truly earned a place in our homes after all these years.

Mack’s vast quantity of gags and puns continue to fill the space that Tim Vine left behind back in 2012, but that doesn’t mean Vine isn’t missed. A new addition to the programme, however, has been that of Hugh Dennis (Outnumbered) who plays Lee and Lucy’s new neighbour, Toby. The introduction of Toby in series 7 has allowed the character dynamics to be balanced with his level-headed presence, in predictable and typical Dennis-style.

A highlight of this series had to be episode five, Pointless (see above link), which featured appearances from both Alexander Armstrong and Richard Osman, who stepped up to the job with apparent ease.

I won’t spoil the ending of the series, but I will say that it ended in typical Not Going Out style (though with the addition of something all concluding sitcoms seem to be doing these days: showing cringeworthy flashbacks of the famous moments from past episodes within the final scenes of the last show). All the memorable characters from the past eight years came together, including Tim Vine which was a delight.

I will always enjoy watching reruns of Not Going Out, but I have to say I felt it reached its natural conclusion here and I am glad it wasn’t stretched any further. Lee Mack’s brilliant comic writing has provided us with years of quality family entertainment and I look forward to seeing what he goes on to write in the future.

Posted in: Comedians, Television Shows Tagged: Hugh Dennis, Katy Wix, Lee Mack, Not Going Out, Sally Bretton, Sitcom, Tim Vine

Seven Questions With… Lou Sanders

January 10, 2015 by Becca Moody 2 Comments
Lou Sanders is a wonderfully upbeat comedian with a fantastic energy that seems to win over any audience. She has mastered the art of saying the most horrendous things but using her charming personality to carry her through to safety every single time, with her innocent delivery and sweet smile. Sanders is definitely one to watch, having appeared on Russell Howard’s Good News Extra as well as being a writer on Channel 4’s Stand Up For The Week.
I asked Lou these seven questions to learn a little more about her…

1) Have you ever heard a really strange rumour about yourself?

 I don’t think so. Oh no, hang on – the other day I bumped in to another comic, John Luke Roberts and he said; ‘Oh I was just talking about you with someone.’

‘Let me guess you were saying my comedy is on fire at the moment? ‘

‘Oh no, they said you were really in to Tantra.’

‘Oh right.’

Now, I’ve got nothing against Tantra, I bet its great but I’ve never studied it. Also, I’m single so ‘Tantra for one’ seems like a bit of a waste of time. I mean, I’ve got admin to do and Tantra is not a friend of time management, it’s simply not efficient.

2) What is the best song in the charts right now, and why?

Right – I’ve just had to search engine the charts.

Hang on, seems Ben Howard’s still hanging around the charts so him. It’s hard to say why you like certain music, I don’t really care for maudlin, sad music. I love rock and folk rock and a bit of depth but not really sad songs. Puts me in a downer. I love Babyshambles’ new album (well at least half of it which is good odds with an album) and I saw The Libertines recently and they were brilliant (just before Pete went to rehab but he held it together – though Carl did lead the show). I’m stuck in the music from about 7 or 8 years ago maybe when I used to go to gigs all the time.

lou sanders

3) What one word describes your life, and why?

Rosy. Because I sprayed rose perfume on earlier and it accidentally went all in my face. So my life / face is pretty rosy plus I have a rose candle lit at the moment. I mean COULD LIFE GET ANY ROSIER? Probably yes.

4) How many friends is too many friends?

26.5 (I measured it).

5) Why is comedy the right job for you?

I’m not sure it is. I’d like to do something a bit more helpful to the world maybe. I kind of want to nail comedy first though.

6) Something that makes you feel old?

Both the question and my answer to Question 2.

That and crowded areas – I’m not into it and the older I get the more I get a boner for nature. But I still feel quite young. The other day I was up dancing till 10pm for example.

7) Which stand up comedians should we look out for?

Annie McGrath is so great, she’s in a brilliant double act called Twins, but has started doing stand up as herself too which is excellent. And Lolly Adefope is smashing – she does character stuff. Patrick Turpin turns out some great shows and jokes. And I saw a set by Peter Brush the other week and his writing was brilliant. I’m sure I’ve missed loads of them out but these are just great ones I’ve seen recently.

Lou Sanders will be releasing a DVD on Go Faster Stripe in early 2015. For more information about this, and any of Lou’s other projects, visit her website, or follow her Twitter at @LouSanders.

SEVEN QUESTIONS WITH…

Posted in: Comedians, Seven Questions With... Tagged: British Comedy, Comedy, Interview, Lou Sanders, Seven Questions With

Christmas Round Up

January 6, 2015 by Becca Moody Leave a Comment

The Christmas period presented multiple comedy gems to our television screens last month, and here is a summary of a few of my particular favourites:

Derek

Ricky Gervais’ Derek reached its natural conclusion with a wedding, a fight and a baby. Gervais has shown a great subtlety in his writing that I had not noticed in his other projects that often displayed, in fact, quite the opposite. I found the episode to be dealt with sensitively and with great humour, with the character of Derek remaining endearing yet dignified throughout, as was noticeable from this year’s series two. Available on 4OD.

House of Fools

House of Fools has been one of my favourite sitcoms since it first aired in early 2014, as it is written by, and stars, the incredible Vic and Bob. This Christmas spectacular presented many problems for the duo: Erik has demanded a particular bobble hat for his present but it has been set on fire. The strange gathering must set off to steal a replacement, and meet Father Christmas (Reece Shearsmith) on the way. Available on BBC iPlayer.

Not Going Out

Not Going Out has been consistently and delightfully cringe-worthy with frequent small laughs and a few brilliant lines per episode (and there have been an impressive seven series, so that’s some great feat). This final episode did not disappoint, and audiences were finally given an answer to the age-old question: will Lee and Lucy ever actually become a couple? Available on BBC iPlayer.

Gadget Man

Richard Ayoade returned with a Gadget Man’s Guide to Christmas with special guests Adam Hills, Jessica Hynes, Stephen Merchant, Jonathan Ross, Reece Shearsmith and Robert Webb. With a wonderful array of toys and vehicles and strange household items, Ayoade presented us with an entirely new take on Christmas gifts and dinners. Available on 4OD.

Charlie Brooker’s 2014 Wipe

Charlie Brooker brought his infamous positive little rays of sunshine to Christmas by overviewing a seemingly awful year for everyone in the entire universe. From Farage to Ebola, Charlie’s typically sarcastic and cutting commentary overed it all, with help from Barry Shitpeas and Philomena Cunk. I should probably warn off people who are prone to depression from watching this programme but Brooker’s wit really takes the edge off, as does the wonderful song at the end. Available on BBC iPlayer.

Man Down

Man Down has to be one of my favourite new sitcoms from the past couple of years because it stars a couple of my most loved comedians: Greg Davies and Roisin Conaty. The Christmas episode was a beautiful tribute to the late Rik Mayall, who played Dan’s father in the show, and sent both Mayall himself, and the character he played, off in a hilarious but touching fashion. Available on 4OD.

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Posted in: Comedians, Television Shows Tagged: Bob Mortimer, Charlie Brooker, Derek, Gadget Man, Greg Davies, House of Fools, Lee Mack, Man Down, Not Going Out, Reece Shearsmith, Richard Ayoade, Ricky Gervais, Rik Mayall, Roisin Conaty, Vic Reeves

December: Comedian Of The Month #11, Nish Kumar

January 2, 2015 by Becca Moody 2 Comments

Nish Kumar is a comedian who I have known of for a while but hadn’t seen too much of his stuff until recently. He is a part of a particular group of my favourites who happen to be television regulars (though Nish himself is someone I would definitely like to see on the television more). As a “British, Asian gentleman”, Kumar has faced his fair share of daily aggravations from the moronic proportion of the British public, and he has turned it into something hilarious.

Kumar is a wonderful observational comic, picking out the humorous parts of both the strange, and relatively mundane, experiences he has, to great effect. Like all great comedians, he talks about what he knows, be that awkward encounters with his parents or talking to girls.

He has a particular piece of material that I like very much that regards the attitudes of people concerning what is comedy and completely shuts down people who stupidly suggest that if it’s not funny, it’s just not comedy anymore. I always find these little elements of frustrated truth to be the funniest, because it’s such a relief to laugh at these irritating things.

Nish’s style of comedy is very approachable, with him being both well-spoken yet subtly self-depreciating, which allows an audience to feel at ease with him, as if he is an old friend, which is a great trait for a performer to have. I certainly look forward to seeing more of Nish Kumar in the future as he is undeniably a very funny man (with beautiful eyes).

Follow Nish on Twitter and for further information, visit his website.

NOVEMBER COMEDIAN OF THE MONTH

Posted in: Comedian Of The Month, Comedians Tagged: Comedian Of The Month, Comedy, Nish Kumar

This Year In Comedy, Part 2

December 30, 2014 by Becca Moody Leave a Comment

2014 was the year that truly proved that the British comedy scene is an exciting place to be. But with all things in life, there have been ups and downs and the industry has lost some of its brightest talents this year.

Two of these, for myself in particular, hurt the most. Star of The Young Ones, Rik Mayall passed away suddenly on June 9th, as a result of a heart attack after his morning run. The news was a shock to everyone, especially as Rik was only 56. Rik Mayall was a shining light in the world of comedy: he was kind, clever, and never afraid to act like a fool. He didn’t take himself too seriously and managed to bring out the inner child in all who watched his hilarious on-screen performances. Television suffered a great loss when Mayall died this year, particularly as he was due to be recording a second series of the magnificently funny Man Down (starring Greg Davies, Roisin Conaty and Mike Wozniak) that summer.

Rik Mayall

Rik Mayall

Two months later, the beloved Robin Williams, who will always have a special place in my heart as Mrs Doubtfire, tragically died on August 11th after a long period of severe depression. The world was silenced to hear this, especially, I gather, people currently working as comics who had worked with him or been inspired by him when they were young.

Every generation knew Robin Williams. His acting credits are endless, including Mork and Mindy, Mrs Doubtfire and Flubber to name a few, as well as being an iconic stand up comedian. The story of what happened is heartbreaking, but at least something positive came out of it: in the days that passed after the world received the news, people slowly started tweeting, blogging and, most importantly, talking about depression. Robin Williams taught the world that mental illness is all around us, even in the places where you might not expect to find it, and his legacy as a fantastic actor and comedian will stay with us all for decades to come.

Robin Williams

Robin Williams

2014 brought about the natural end to various loved sitcoms. The seventh, and final, series of Not Going Out was broadcast throughout October, November and December, with the final ever episode airing on Christmas Eve. As well as this, Miranda Hart announced that the final episodes of her playfully childish television hit Miranda were to be aired on Christmas and New Year’s Day, after having spanned three series.

As if this year hadn’t had its fair share of controversies, Vine celebrity, Dapper Laughs (Daniel O’Reilly) dug himself a hole when his awful and misogynistic television show On The Pull was aired on ITV in October. The “comedian” had been previously criticised for his comments regarding women and his horrendous rape “jokes” so it was no surprise that an online petition was launched to get Dapper Laughs off of our television screens. When this petition was successful, some complained that it was a denial of free speech and a dangerous act of censorship, but quite frankly, I think the danger came from the way O’Reilly fed and encouraged rape culture through his own stupidity; in my eyes, he committed a crime. But no fear, he will, of course, be back in 2015, so he wasn’t really sorry at all.

To end on a positive note, however, for the first time in five years, Never Mind The Buzzcocks has found a permanent host in the incredible funny Rhod Gilbert. Rhod is absolutely brilliant at hosting the programme; he is eloquent, witty and sarcastic and has already been successful in developing a comfortable and, most importantly, funny atmosphere.

2014 has been a year of many surprises, some good and some bad. I hope 2015 is equally as interesting and even more funny. Happy New Year!

READ PART ONE OF MY YEAR ROUNDUP HERE.

Posted in: Comedians, News, Television Shows Tagged: British Comedy, Comedy, Dapper Laughs, Never Mind The Buzzcocks, News, Rhod Gilbert, Rik Mayall, Robin Williams

This Year In Comedy, Part 1

December 27, 2014 by Becca Moody 2 Comments

2014 has been a massive year for comedy in Britain;

There have been countless brand new television programmes broadcast this year, with some of my favourites including Uncle, House of Fools, Doll & Em, The Walshes, Inside No.9, Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled and Siblings. In this sense, 2014 has certainly proven itself to be twelve months of creativity and innovation in comedy, which will pave the way for televised comedy in the future.

As well as new projects, there have been many top-quality programmes that returned to our screens this year. Noel Fielding’s Luxury Comedy: Tales From Painted Hawaii was a special one for me, as Noel Fielding is my comedy hero, and considering the fact that the first series was broadcast all the way back in January 2012. Ricky Gervais’ Derek, Toast of London (Matt Berry) and Big School (David Walliams and Catherine Tate) returned for a second series and the brilliantly funny Friday Night Dinner came back with a third.

Noel Fielding's Luxury Comedy

Noel Fielding’s Luxury Comedy

At the beginning of the year, the BBC announced that they were to make a conscious effort to include at least one woman on every episode of every panel show broadcast by the corporation, and it inspired me to write this post. It’s fair to say that to begin with, I was disheartened. I felt embarrassed that female comedians were being made to look like poor little lambs that can’t fend for themselves as it is absolute nonsense. However, the situation improved later on in the year (which I also documented here) as the thirteenth series of Mock The Week aired and so many talented female comics were given the screen time they deserve. It is my hope from here on in that people forget about the publicised rule and appreciate that these women have earned their right to be on these programmes, and acknowledge their immense talent.

Another shock announcement was that there are plans for the channel BBC3 to be axed in order to fund other projects within the BBC. Amongst other things, the broadcaster wants to create a BBC1+1 which seems pointless as we already have iPlayer, and the decision has, understandably, not been well received. We are told that when BBC3 disappears from our TV screens, it will still be available via BBC iPlayer. Maybe we are just reluctant to give in to the age of the computers, but it definitely feels like the space for new comedy on television is being made smaller by moving its main platform online. “We know those +1 channels are very important to people”, well, Mr Cohen, so is our comedy.

Winner of this year's Fosters Comedy Award: John Kearns

Winner of this year’s Fosters Comedy Award: John Kearns

The Edinburgh Festival this year saw a new winner of the Fosters Comedy Award crowned. John Kearns’ show Shtick is the first Free Fringe show to have ever won the award. There have also been some HUGE live comedy tours this year from the likes of Russell Howard, Miranda Hart, Sarah Millican and Noel Fielding, as well as the return of Monty Python for five nights of nostalgic silliness at the O2 Arena.

COME BACK NEXT WEEK TO READ PART TWO OF THIS YEAR IN COMEDY

Posted in: Comedians, News, Television Shows Tagged: British Comedy, Comedy, John Kearns, News, Noel Fielding, Noel Fielding's Luxury Comedy
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