Comedy thrives here at Jesters. Ever thought about where some of Britain’s best comedians got their start? It might surprise you. Many began with the Cambridge Footlights.
Jesters stands as a silent observer. It watches Cambridge students sharpen their comedic skills. It all began in 1883. The Cambridge Footlights emerged. They aimed to reach beyond the University Amateur Dramatic Club. Its small theatre only held 100 people.
Early shows were a hit. A local paper praised their appeal. They attracted all types of Cambridge residents. The Footlights found a home. It was in the basement of the Cambridge Union.
The 1960s brought change. Peter Cook and Dudley Moore helped them rise to fame. They formed half of “Beyond the Fringe”. This stage show toured Britain and America. The Footlights’ 1963 revue followed suit. It played in Edinburgh, London, New Zealand, and the US.
The Footlights dominated British comedy. They created shows like “I’m Sorry, I’ll Read That Again”. They also launched groups. Monty Python and The Goodies rose from their ranks.
The 1980s cemented their status. A 1981 revue featured future stars. Emma Thompson, Hugh Laurie, and Stephen Fry all took part. It won the Perrier Award at the Edinburgh Fringe. Fry and Laurie then became a famous double act.
Many Footlights members achieved great success. They won Oscars and BAFTAs. The Footlights is still active today. They perform “Smokers” at the ADC Theatre. They also stage an annual pantomime. They host the Footlights Harry Porter Prize. It is a playwriting competition for students. The Footlights International Tour Show travels the world.
To become a member, students must apply. Both Cambridge University and Anglia Ruskin University students can join. They must be in their third year or above. Postgraduate students can also apply.
Notable Footlights presidents include Peter Cook and Tim Brooke-Taylor. Graeme Garden and Eric Idle also held the position. Clive James and Clive Anderson were presidents too. Jan Ravens was the first woman president. Hugh Laurie and Tony Slattery also led the group.
From its humble beginnings, the Cambridge Footlights comedy has had an outstanding impact. They continue to shape British comedy from places like Jesters. Their legacy of laughter continues.