New Documentary To Celebrate Britain's Grassroots Comedy Scene

New Documentary To Celebrate Britain's Grassroots Comedy Scene

Three South Yorkshire comedians have begun filming a documentary exploring the people, places and communities that make up Britain's grassroots comedy circuit.

Gone Gigging follows comedians April Louise, Big Shaun and Calum Murray as they travel across the UK performing at comedy clubs, pub back rooms, arts centres and community venues while meeting the comedians, promoters, venue owners and audiences keeping grassroots comedy alive.

The documentary is a funny, honest and heartfelt road trip exploring why grassroots comedy matters. Along the way, the team will speak with established comedians who remember a very different comedy landscape, as well as the new generation navigating today's open mic circuit. Together they'll explore how the scene has evolved, the challenges it faces and what its future might look like.

More than a documentary about stand-up, Gone Gigging is a story about community, friendship and belonging.

Each of the three presenters has faced personal challenges and found something unexpected through comedy: connection, purpose and somewhere to belong. The film explores the role grassroots comedy can play in supporting mental wellbeing, creating confidence and bringing people together.

The documentary also shines a light on the people working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep grassroots comedy alive – promoters risking their own money, venues opening their doors, volunteers giving up their evenings, and audiences returning week after week to support live comedy.

Along the journey, the team will discuss everything from mental health and creativity to gatekeeping, opportunities for new acts, the importance of local venues and why grassroots comedy remains the beating heart of British stand-up.

The documentary will also feature April's work with Gags for Good CIC, highlighting how comedy can help people build confidence, overcome isolation and discover a voice they never knew they had.

Filming is now underway across the UK, and the team is inviting comedy clubs, promoters, comedians, venue owners and audiences to become part of the story. If you're involved in grassroots comedy and have a story to tell, they'd love to hear from you – Instagram: @aprillouise_comedy. 

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