Chris Cantrill's spoof whodunnit wins Edinburgh comedy award

After three previous nominations, comedian Chris Cantrill has finally clinched the prestigious Edinburgh comedy award for his show 'Rewilding.' The win, announced this week, recognizes Cantrill's unique blend of humor and storytelling, focusing on his experiences adapting to life in rural Northumberland.

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In Chris and Marty we have two outstanding winners: both are exceptional comedians, writers and performers who have crafted wonderful shows.

'Rewilding' is described as a spoof whodunnit, where an act of vandalism disrupts the tranquility of the countryside, leading to a comedic investigation. This success builds upon Cantrill's 2024 show, 'Easily Swayed,' which documented his move to the countryside and earned him his third nomination for the award. Cantrill, 42, from Bradford, is known for his relatable and fun-loving style, often performing as part of the duo The Delightful Sausage with his partner Amy Gledhill, who won the same award two years ago.

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Cantrill, 42 and from Bradford, received the so-called “Oscar of live comedy” for a show, Rewilding, about his new life in rural Northumberland, where an act of vandalism shocks the local community – and a spoof whodunnit ensues.

This year's awards also saw Marty Gleeson honored as best newcomer for her show 'Dog Ear.' Gleeson's performance is noted for its eccentricity, incorporating live bodhrán accompaniment and audience interaction. The panel prize, celebrating initiatives that embody the "spirit of the fringe," was awarded to 'One Joke,' an event that featured 60 comedians telling a single joke each within an hour, raising money for charity.

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This eccentric set is inspired by Gleeson’s experiences at art school in her native Limerick, and – with its live bodhrán accompaniment and setpiece that requires shaking the hand of every single audience member – marches entirely to the beat of its own drum.

Organizers Nica Burns and Emma Brünjes praised both Cantrill and Gleeson as "exceptional comedians, writers and performers." The awards, considered a significant launchpad for comedic talent in the UK, have previously recognized stars like Steve Coogan and Sarah Millican. Despite a shortlist that leaned towards more unconventional acts, Cantrill's win was celebrated for rewarding years of dedicated performance to fringe audiences.

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Produced by Liebenspiel, compered by Jonathan Oldfield, and headlined by the comic Lorna Rose Treen, it featured contributions by 60 comedians, and raised money for charity.