Awards generate a buzz and are motivating but the pressure to be nominated and the disappointment are intense
“I have a very toxic relationship with awards,” says Natalie Palamides, who won best newcomer at the 2017 Edinburgh comedy awards. “Obviously, I think they’re dumb, and art shouldn’t be qualified or quantified in that way. I’d like to say that, but if I’m being totally honest with you, I always want to win.”
The 42nd Edinburgh comedy awards, founded in 1981 and run by Nica Burns since 1984, were announced last week. This year, 563 shows are eligible for either best show or best newcomer. But there can only be two winners.