Ahead of Ticketmaster Comedy Day 2026 on March 17th at The Comedy Store London, we caught up with Anna Cooke, Vice President of Comedy at Live Nation, who will be joining us as a panelist on the night. As the industry comes together to explore the evolving comedy landscape, from grassroots clubs to global touring, Anna shares insights from her career developing comedians, building audiences, and what attendees can expect to hear at the event.
With International Women’s Day also taking place this week, she reflects on her journey in the live entertainment industry and offers advice for the next generation of women looking to build careers in comedy.
Interview: Anna Cooke, Vice President, Comedy – Live Nation
CAREER
What’s been a career highlight for you?
“Taking comedians from the comedy circuit right through to world tours is always a highlight. Learning to enjoy that journey — which doesn’t happen overnight — is incredibly rewarding. It leads to those big “wow” moments when you step back and watch rooms full of people laughing in unison.”
What’s your favourite thing about working in your role?
“Working directly with the world’s funniest people will always be my favourite part of each day.”
If you had to explain your role to a 10-year-old, how would you explain what you do?
“My 11-year-old daughter still believes my job is hanging out backstage in beautiful theatres with lovely people. I’m glad she only sees the magical side of my job and not the admin.”
What did your journey to your current role look like?
“I started working in comedy when I was 18 years old. After my first day as a show manager, I knew it was all I ever wanted to do. Since then, I’ve worked in many different roles — from running venues and booking line-ups to working as an agent. Each of those experiences prepared me for my role at Live Nation and allowed me to bring a broad perspective and wealth of experience to the job.”
What is something about comedy that excites you?
“The simplicity of it: funny is funny.
Watching a comedian with just a microphone make a room full of strangers laugh together never gets old.”
How do you approach developing a comedian from smaller club shows to larger venues?
“This is the part of my job I love the most. At Live Nation, we understand the importance of comedy clubs when developing comedians. Stage time is vital for performers to develop their craft, but it’s also where they begin building their audience.
We partner with The Comedy Store London and run over 120 Comedy Store on the Road shows every year across the UK. Those grassroots shows are where the journey begins.”
COMEDY DAY
You’ll be speaking at Comedy Day on the 17th at The Comedy Store, what are you most looking forward to?
“I’m really looking forward to discussing trends in comedy from different perspectives — venues, agents, promoters and ticketing professionals.”
What can attendees expect to hear from you on the panel?
“I’ll be speaking about the importance of supporting grassroots comedy clubs to develop the next generation of comedy superstars.”
What advice are you most excited to share with emerging comedians?
“Stage time is key. Gig anywhere and everywhere you can.
You will learn something on every stage you perform on.”
Does hosting the event at The Comedy Store make it feel special?
“Absolutely. The Comedy Store London has long been the UK’s flagship comedy venue. It’s a place that represents the pinnacle for comedians and the industry alike.”
What do you hope people walk away with after Comedy Day?
“New ideas, fresh perspectives and collaborative opportunities.”
COMEDY: PAST, PRESENT, & FUTURE
Where do you see the comedy landscape heading?
“Social media and podcasts will continue to allow comedians to directly connect with their audiences and build communities on their own terms. However, if comedians want longevity in their careers, comedy venues — from grassroots mixed-bill shows through to touring venues — need to be protected and supported.”
How important is diversity of voices in comedy?
“Hugely important. Comedy is subjective but accessible to everyone. Audiences should be able to see themselves reflected on stage.”
Favourite comedy show in 2025?
“Troy Hawke’s sold-out Palladium debut. I started working with Troy in small club spaces, and in 2025 we toured the world and closed the run with a full house at the London Palladium.”
Favourite live event you’ve ever attended?
“Nothing beats a full Comedy Tent at Download Festival. It’s one of the warmest and most accepting audiences in the UK.”
Best crowd reaction you’ve ever witnessed?
‘King Gong at The Comedy Store London. When the audience unite and rally behind their winner, they understand the weight of the moment — they’re discovering tomorrow’s arena comic right at the start of their career.”
CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
Advice to young women wanting a role like yours?
“Learn as much as you can about every part of the industry.
Ask questions, build relationships, and be prepared to back yourself in rooms where you may be the only woman.”
Favourite female artist right now?
“Comedy is full of amazingly talented female and non-binary comedians who are constantly evolving and pushing boundaries. Harriet Dyer is a great example of how hard work and talent can build an incredible career.”
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
“It’s a moment to celebrate progress while recognising the work that still needs to be done.”
Anna’s perspective highlights just how important collaboration is across the comedy ecosystem — from grassroots venues nurturing new talent to promoters, agents and ticketing partners helping comedians grow their audiences and scale to larger stages. At Ticketmaster, we’re proud to support comedy venues, promoters and partners across the industry with the tools, insights and expertise needed to grow shows and connect fans with the next generation of comedy talent.
To keep up with more insights and highlights from Ticketmaster Comedy Day 2026, be sure to follow Ticketmaster on LinkedIn.
