By Tegan Maass
Comedians have taken to the stage in Nottingham this week as the annual comedy festival returns for its 16th year.
The event, spanning 17 venues, began on Friday, November 1 and will run until Sunday, November 10.
Both Nottinghamshire talent and award-winning comedians take part in the festival, which aims to support all voices including those typically underrepresented in the comedy industry.
Juliette Burton, an award-winning comedian from Hitchen performed on November 2 at The Lord Roberts.
She said: “Nottingham Comedy Festival is one of the most supportive and fun comedy festivals in the UK from my perspective.
“Whenever I arrive in Nottingham for the festival, I’m reminded of all the years the audiences and venues there have welcomed me with enthusiasm.
“There’s too few places for comedians at various levels to strengthen their craft and Nottingham comedy festival therefore is vital in the comedy landscape of our nation.”
Performances include solo shows, musical comedy, panels on dating and politics, and improvisation.
Everyone with a passion to entertain was encouraged to apply, regardless of level and style.
Denzil Ede, 46, a comedian and promoter from Nottinghamshire, said: “It’s been an interesting experience so far, although the days have been long.
“Most shows have been getting good audiences, although a few have struggled with numbers.
“With so many shows going on across the city, this is to be expected.”
Denzil also praised the festival’s attitude to inclusion.
He added: “I’m also excited about the John Smith Show, a deaf comedian using accessible British sign language interpreters for hearing audiences.
“It’s great to see comedy transcending barriers and bringing awareness about the deaf community.”
More information about ticket prices and venue locations can be found here.