Thank you for your interest in the Pleasance Comedy Reserve.

The Charlie Hartill Special Reserve is a designated fund towards the production costs of bringing selected projects to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, established in 2004 in memory of Charlie Hartill. The purpose of the Fund is to provide financial support in the form of an investment so that the writers, directors, technicians, producers and performers of the future might have an opportunity to hone their talents.

For more than a decade, the Comedy Reserve has supported a great number of comics by providing a unique platform at the Fringe, acting as a launch pad for some of the best acts on the circuit today. After a series of try outs, 4 of the best up and coming comics are chosen to perform in a nightly show at Pleasance Edinburgh without any financial risk.

If you are offered a place on the Reserve, the Pleasance will provide you with accommodation in Edinburgh, a paid subsistence and cover all aspects of marketing for the show.

Applying couldn't be easier - simply complete the form below. Before you do so however, we have a few "rules" you need to be aware of...

• You must be available to be in Edinburgh from the 28th July until the last show on the 31st August.
• You cannot perform another show at the festival. You can take part in one off mixed bills and other solo events but we ask that the Reserve is your primary commitment.
• You must be available to take part in one of our Try Outs with a 7 minute set, which take place in Pleasance London in the evening of Monday 9th and Tuesday 10th March.

Application Deadline: 12pm, Monday 23rd Feb, 2026

If you have any queries, feel free to contact us on charliefund@pleasance.co.uk