one4review | On 13, Aug 2025

After a nationwide university tour, seven comedically talented students
won through to earn a place in the final of Britain’s funniest student
competition: Sofia Lambis, Rob Mac an Tuile, Anoushay Omaha, Anna
George, Kwesi Sekyi, Fred Carver and Kathy Rivett, who all rose
excellently to the occasion – not one weak link among them. The event,
hosted for the tenth year by the ever-charming Mark Watson, saw each
finalist deliver a short but punchy comedy set.

In a historic first for the 20-year-old competition, because the overall
standard was so high the top prize was shared.  Fred Carver impressed
with his delightfully absurd material, peppered with suggestions for
bizarre Banksy locations, while Anna George – returning for her second
final – delivered good natured, witty jabs at the awards’ organisers.
Kwesi Sekyi’s confident, more usual stand-up, earned him a well-deserved
third place.

The audience responded with enthusiastic support throughout, clearly
relishing the chance to spot future stars, and all leaving happy.
Organised by the leading comedy website Chortle, the competition has
launched careers for past finalists such as Tom Rosenthal, Joe Lycett,
Phil Wang, Richard Gadd and Joe Kent-Walters. Judging by this year’s
display of talent, several of these finalists are likely to follow in
their footsteps towards bright futures in the world of comedy, once they
complete their degrees, masters or doctorates.

****1/2

Reviewed by HJ

Pleasance Courtyard – Forth