Salford Comedy Conference

The University of Salford hosts its third annual conference of comedy this week with former Radio 1 DJ Wes Butters taking the headline slot.

There to discuss his new book on Carry On star Kenneth Williams, Butters will be joined by the BBC's head of comedy north, Jim Poyser. Amongst the laughter and jokes that are sure to fill the lecture hall, there will be serious discussions on the ways in which the BBC can incorporate new comedy talent after the success of shows like Little Britain.

They say humour doesn't translate, and the event organiser, Dr Chris Lee (otherwise known as author and broadcaster CP Lee), will look at how comedy reflects different cultures around the world. Dr Lee says, “Comedy is a window into how society deals with its issues.

“We’ll be hearing about how people react today to the comedy of the Farrelly Brothers which is often at the expense of the disabled, and how political satire in Italy is affected by Berlusconi’s control of the media.”

Wes Butters

Meanwhile, Jim Poyser will provide an insight into the business of comedy and how to identify and nurture new talent.

Says Dr Lee: “At Salford we’ve produced graduates such as Peter Kay and Jason Manford, and Jim’s insights will be valuable, not only in terms of contributing to the academic debate, but also in learning about how top comedy is commissioned and produced.”

Salford Comedy Conference takes place on Thursday 4 and Friday 5 June. To register your attendance, contact the University's press office on 0161 295 5361.