Aspiring comedy writers are being offered the chance to have their work performed live on stage in front of a packed audience as A Sketch for Sammy makes its triumphant return for 2025.
Backed by the team behind the much-loved Sunday for Sammy shows, this exciting opportunity invites writers to submit original comedy sketches for the chance to see their work brought to life by a professional cast.
“We’re thrilled to bring back A Sketch for Sammy as part of our mission to uncover and support fresh comedy talent,” said Ray Laidlaw, producer of the Sunday for Sammy show, which will return to Newcastle’s Utilita Arena on 15th February 2026. “If you’ve got a funny idea, now’s the time to get it down on paper. This is your chance to see your sketch performed on stage and maybe even win a very special award.”
To enter, writers are asked to submit a 5-minute sketch along with a one-sentence logline summarising the sketch and a short bio (100 words max), mentioning any relevant writing experience. Entrants should also confirm if they’re happy for their contact details to be shared for future creative opportunities. Submissions should be sent to info@sundayforsammy.org.
A panel of judges – including comedians Cal Halbert and Kelly Rickard, comedy director Emma Roxburgh, writer Tony Gannie, and producer Ray Laidlaw – will select the top six scripts. These writers will receive mentoring to refine their sketches, which will then be performed live by a professional company at the Sketch for Sammy Final at Exchange 1856 in North Shields on 12th October 2025. The show, hosted by Halbert and Rickard, will also feature a top-class bill of live music and comedy.
Each finalist will receive a pair of tickets to the Sunday for Sammy comeback show, and the winner will be presented with the prestigious Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais Comedy Award. In addition, there’s the incredible opportunity for finalists’ sketches to be considered for performance at the Sunday for Sammy Arena show itself in February 2026.
Deadline for entries is 31st August 2025, and finalists will be contacted by 14th September 2025.
This is your moment – get writing and make them laugh!
PR and Media keith@highlightspr.co.uk