The Glasgow International Comedy Festival (GICF) has unveiled an exciting shortlist of seven acts vying for the prestigious Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award. This accolade, named after the legendary comedian known affectionately as the Big Yin, celebrates the unique Glaswegian humor, warmth, and resilience that Connolly embodies. The winner will be announced on March 30 during the festival’s comedy gala at the iconic King’s Theatre in Glasgow.
Traditionally, the shortlist consists of six nominees, but this year, the strength of the entries prompted festival organizers to expand it to seven. A distinguished panel of judges, including actor Alan Cumming, comedian Sanjeev Kohli, and last year’s award recipient Susie McCabe, undertook the challenging task of selecting the finalists. Their decision reflects the vibrant and diverse comedic talent emerging from Glasgow and beyond.
Among the nominees is veteran comedian Craig Hill, who has garnered acclaim for his sold-out performances at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Hill expressed his delight at being shortlisted, stating he is “chuffed” to be recognized alongside such talented peers. His long-standing career and dedication to the craft make him a deserving contender for this honor.
Another notable nominee is Kim Blythe, a Glaswegian comedian who gained fame through her viral online sketches that humorously depict everyday life. In her first year at the comedy festival, Blythe performed two sold-out shows, and she described being mentioned in connection with Sir Billy as “a bit mental.” Her fresh perspective and relatable humor resonate with audiences, making her a strong candidate for the award.
Marjolein Robertson, hailing from Shetland, has made a name for herself with her comedic folktales, particularly during the lockdown period. She expressed her excitement about making the shortlist, stating, “This makes me feel like leaving Shetland to pursue comedy and bring my home’s folktales to the stage was the right choice.” Her unique storytelling approach adds a rich layer to the festival’s lineup.
TikTok sensation Paul Black, also from Glasgow, is another contender. His successful sketch show will be featured at the King’s Theatre as part of the festival. Black humorously remarked that he plans to include his nomination for the award on “every gig poster for the rest of my life,” showcasing his enthusiasm and commitment to his craft.
Viv Gee, a seasoned comic who has mentored rising talents like Baby Reindeer writer Richard Gadd, is also in the running. She teaches the festival’s introduction to comedy course and expressed her joy at being nominated, calling it “pure dead brilliant.” Her experience and dedication to nurturing new talent highlight the supportive community within Glasgow’s comedy scene.
Scott Agnew, with a career spanning over 24 years, is recognized for his recent work, including his debut BBC Radio 4 series, “Dead Man Talking.” His longevity in the industry and continued creativity make him a noteworthy nominee. Agnew’s contributions to comedy have left a lasting impact, and his nomination reflects his enduring relevance.
Lastly, Rosco McClelland, who was named Scottish Comedian of the Year in 2016, rounds out the shortlist. His show at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2024 received top reviews, and he expressed his admiration for Connolly, stating, “Billy Connolly is an idol to this city; to be mentioned in the same breath is a huge honour.” McClelland’s recognition underscores the high caliber of talent represented in this year’s shortlist.
Festival director Krista MacDonald praised the nominees, stating, “A massive congratulations from the team at GICF to this year’s Sir Billy Connolly Award shortlist – it’s an outstanding achievement to make it onto the seven-strong list amidst some fierce competition.” She emphasized the honor of having Connolly involved in the festival and highlighted the significance of the award in recognizing the distinct Glaswegian humor that he epitomizes.
The GICF kicked off on Wednesday and will run until March 30, featuring over 550 shows across various venues. From renowned comedy clubs like The Stand and Blackfriars to unique locations such as the Barrowland Ballroom, the festival promises to showcase Glasgow’s world-renowned humor. As the city welcomes comedians from near and far, it reinforces its reputation as one of the funniest cities in the world, celebrating the rich tapestry of comedic talent that continues to thrive within its vibrant cultural landscape.
