Magners has launched a nationwide comedy competition, 'Share The Craic', to discover the next breakthrough comedian, offering the winner a funded residency with Underbelly at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026. The search aims to spotlight emerging talent, providing a platform for new voices in comedy.
Regional Heats and Final
The competition will feature a series of regional heats across the UK, including:
- The Bear Tavern, Birmingham – Thursday 4th June, 8pm
- The Gaffe Comedy Club, Bristol – Monday 8th June, 8pm
- The Frog & Bucket, Manchester – Wednesday 10th June, 8pm
- The Stand, Glasgow – Thursday 11th June, 8pm
- Up The Creek, London – Tuesday 16th June, 8pm
The grand final will take place at Underbelly Boulevard Soho, London on 30th June. The winner will earn a coveted run at Underbelly’s Wee Coo at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026, along with mentoring support leading up to their show.
Campaign Fronted by Emma Doran
Irish comedian Emma Doran, who recently extended her sell-out UK & Ireland tour 'Emmaculate', is fronting the campaign. Having built her career through grassroots comedy in Dublin and beyond, Doran understands what it takes to win over an audience. She will join the judging panel for the live final in London.
Speaking at The Ha’penny Bridge Inn, where her comedy journey began, Doran said: 'Starting out in stand-up is humbling, character building, mildly traumatising, but also fun, rewarding and confidence boosting, especially when your mates are in the audience. I can’t wait to see who’s actually got a dusting of comedic magic, and who’s been absolutely carried here by a gang of aggressively supportive mates.'
Support from Magners and Underbelly
Phoebe Small, Head of Brand at Magners, said: 'Before comedy comes craic, those jokes and banter shared between friends, it’s a bit loose, and full of personality. But taking that warm humour onto a stage, well, that’s a big deal! That’s a big step. With Magners Share The Craic, we’re looking for people who can turn great craic over a pint into something that lights up a whole room.'
Marina Dixon, Underbelly's Head of Programming, added: 'The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is where so many great comedy careers begin, and many have been launched on Underbelly stages. We’re passionate about helping new talent find their audience. Through ‘Share The Craic’, we’re excited to support the next wave of comedians with mentoring and guidance, alongside the opportunity to bring their show to Underbelly at the Edinburgh Fringe and take that all-important next step in their career.'
How to Enter
Aspiring comedians can register until 29th May at magners.com/uk/share-the-craic. Full terms and conditions apply.
