I have put together a selection of You Tube links, sampling a number of these performers (mostly of the “observational” genre but not to overlook the unnerving ventriloquism of Nina Conti) currently working the circuit in the UK and often Australia as well. The rise of Brit comedy award shows alone would suggest that something of a “wave” is a-rippling across the pond. See what you think.
Marcus Brigstocke
A stand-up comedian and actor from London. Appeared in Love Actually as Mike, a radio DJ. “Live at the Apollo” is a comedy programme performed at the Hammersmith Apollo Theatre in West London.
Part II
Sarah Millican
Born in South Shields, England (1975), Sarah Millican didn’t begin performing stand-up until aged 29 when she made her debut at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2008, winning the if.comedy award for Best Newcomer.
David Mitchell
Political wit, star of a number of TV comedy dramas (Peep Show), has a quiet way of letting his views be known. Here he is skipping across a number "game shows" (Mock the Week, Would I Lie to You, QI, etc.).
Nina Conti
from Hampstead, London, performs as a ventriloquist with a bit of a post-modern flair. Daughter of Tim Conti, the actor.
…and if you haven't been brow-beaten enough: