We’re on the hunt for Britain’s (second) greatest comedian.

The Spirit of Comedy is a new stand-up competition and comedy community, with multiple rounds reaching all corners of the UK.

Aiming to unearth new comedy talent and promote them to a global audience, the winner will receive a cash prize of £5,000 and be invited to open for Dutch Barn Vodka co-owner Ricky Gervais at London's OVO Arena Wembley on 15 November 2025.

Highlights of the shows will be broadcast on our YouTube channel, with judging to include a combination of audience voting and expert panels.

The Spirit of Comedy schedule is as follows:

 
First round: May to July
2025, including 20 towns and cities across the UK.

     
Second round: August
& September 2025, including 5 towns and cities across the UK.

    
Grand Final: 1 October
2025 in London.

With a mix of prizes at each event and progression to the next round of the competition up for grabs, Dutch Barn invites you to apply to The Spirit of Comedy by submitting a short clip of your comedy below.