Amplifying Comedy: Connecting People and Saving Venues

Sarah Henley is one of the founders of NextUp, a comedy organisation that champions and supports live comedy in the UK.

An inspirational female founder, Sarah has been featured on the BBC's New Talent Hotlist, accepted onto the Google for StartUps: Women Founders Immersion Program, and setup Burn Bright - a not-for-profit that that supports female theatre writers,

Using NextUp's industry connections and platform, as well as technology solutions developed during the Covid-19 Restrictions - the idea is empower comedy venues with innovative streaming technology to open up an additional revenue stream for venues and performers, allowing an for an in-person and live-streamed 'Hybrid Audience' - all of whom can interact with the comic and enjoy the 'live' experience. This will make live comedy more accessible than ever for those who are unable to make the performance in person - bringing local comedy to a UK-wide audience.

Additionally this solution will help venues weather the limitations in live audiences the Covid-19 Restrictions have imposed, as well as future-proofing their revenue for years to come. Comedy brings people together - and by digitising venues, it has the power to connect more people than ever.