Aspiring comedy writers hoping to see their work performed on stage, and potentially in front of thousands at the next Sunday for Sammy arena show, are being reminded that time is running out to enter.
With entries closing on Saturday 12 September, the Sunday for Sammy Trust is making a final call for writers across the North East to enter its Sketch for Sammy 2026 competition and be in with a chance of winning the Clement & La Frenais Award for Best Sketch.
The competition gives emerging comedy writers the opportunity to have their work professionally mentored, developed and performed live with all six finalists also being considered for inclusion in the 2028 Sunday for Sammy arena show at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena.
Writers have until Saturday, September 12 to submit an original comedy sketch of around five minutes.
And organisers are looking for something very specific – funny, original sketches packed with the wit, warmth and unmistakable character of the North East.
Last year’s winner, Hendrika Seguro-Bigg, knows exactly what the opportunity can mean for an emerging writer.
She said:
“Winning Sketch for Sammy was a huge turning point for me as a writer, being that it was my first comedy award. Having that support gave me the confidence and momentum to keep pushing forward and keep doing what I love.”
Hendrika and runner-up Georgia Nicholson subsequently saw their sketches performed during this year’s sell-out Sunday for Sammy shows alongside an all-star line-up featuring Matty Healy of The 1975, Lewis Capaldi and Sting.
Now the Trust is looking for the next writer to follow in their footsteps.
Sunday for Sammy producer Ray Laidlaw said:
“There are only a few days left to get your entry in, so if you’ve been thinking about entering, now is the time to do it.
“Sketch for Sammy has become a wonderful way of discovering fresh comedy talent from across the North East. Every year we’re amazed by the imagination, originality and humour people bring to the competition.
“We want writers to be bold, funny and proudly Geordie. If you’ve got an idea that will make an audience laugh, we’d love to read it.”
The judging panel – featuring comedians Cal Halbert and Kelly Rickard, comedy director Emma Roxburgh, writer Tony Gannie and producer Ray Laidlaw – will select six finalists.
Each finalist will receive professional mentoring before their sketch is performed live at Sketch for Sammy at The Exchange 1856 on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
The evening will be hosted by Cal Halbert and Kelly Rickard and feature comedy and live music, with the six finalist sketches taking centre stage.
And there is an even bigger prize on offer – the finalists’ work will be considered for inclusion in the 2028 Sunday for Sammy arena production, affectionately known as the Geordie Command Performance.
HOW TO ENTER
Writers should submit:
An original comedy sketch of around five minutes – approximately five pages in standard play format
A completed entry form
A short biography of no more than 100 words
The closing date for entries is Saturday, September 12, 2026.
The six finalists will be notified before the public shortlist is announced on Monday, September 28.
Anyone with questions about the competition can email info@sundayforsammy.org.
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