Magners' Share The Craic sees five rising comics one step away from a funded Fringe debut

Five comedians are one performance away from securing a fully funded run at this year's Edinburgh Fringe.

After attracting more than 500 entries from across the UK, Magners' Share The Craic competition has announced its final five contestants, who won the heats in their respective regions of Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester, Glasgow and London. They are: Tim Biglowe, Adam Jones, Murph, Catriona Paterson and Ashlee Bentley.

The five will battle it out at Underbelly Boulevard in London on 30th June, hosted by Joey Page, with the winner receiving a funded residency at Underbelly’s Wee Coo venue during the 2026 Edinburgh Fringe.

Find out more about Magners' Share The Craic - HERE

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Phoebe Small, head of brand at Magners, told Chortle: "To receive more than 500 entries has been incredible and shows just how much exciting comedy talent is out there waiting to be discovered. 

"We’ve been blown away by the quality of performers we’ve seen throughout the heats and are thrilled to be bringing our final five together for one last showdown.

"This is a chance to see some of the most exciting emerging comedians in the country performing for a genuinely career-changing opportunity."

Marina Dixon, head of programming at Underbelly, added: ’It’s been brilliant to see the quality of the talent entering the competition, and we can’t wait to help support the winner as they take that all-important next step in their career at the Edinburgh Fringe.’

Edinburgh Fringe may be around the corner, but great comedy is happening year-round. Explore the UK's best comedy events - HERE

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Header image credit: Magners