Smash the Competition: Maximise Your Set for Comedy Success

A competition focued Workshop with Award-Winning Comedian & Comedy Lab Founder Tom Short

Whether you're stepping into your first stand-up heat or gunning for the final of a national competition, the stakes are high – and so are the opportunities. This in-depth workshop, led by Tom Short, gives you the tools, strategy and insight to make your comedy set competition-ready.

Tom Short isn’t just another comic – he’s a multi-award-winning comedian and qualified lecturer in Comedy Writing & Performance at the University of Salford. A working-class, neurodivergent artist who’s carved his own path through the comedy world, Tom knows first-hand how to stand out in an industry. From developing award-nominated shows to mentoring award-winning rising stars through his sell-out Comedy Lab workshops in Manchester and beyond, Tom brings a wealth of practical experience and honest advice.

This workshop will guide you through:

• How to shape a killer 5-minute set that actually lands in competitions
• The psychology of competition audiences – and how to win them over
• Techniques for quickly building connection and impact
• Common competition pitfalls – and how to avoid them
• How to turn one good gig into ongoing industry credibillity
• Adapting your voice without compromising authenticity
• Confidence-building exercises for high-pressure performance environments

Plus, there’ll be opportunities for feedback on your current set, networking with like-minded comics, and practical guidance tailored to your comedy journey – whether you’re an alternative weirdo, a slick club comic, or something in-between.

Comedy competitions can be a springboard – or a dead end. Let’s make sure it’s the former.

Also check out other Comedy events in Manchester, Workshops in Manchester, Entertainment events in Manchester.