FOR THE LOVE OF POD // Helen Lederer

THE WRITER, COMEDIAN, ACTRESS AND FOUNDER OF THE COMEDY WOMEN IN PRINT PRIZE PICKS OUT HER TOP 5 SHOWS...

1. ROCKONTEURS

I am partial to a bit of rock - particularly in my kitchen when the portable disco light is switched on. Because of my gothic velvet jacket - I am very occasionally likened as a possible Sister of the Moon to the incomparable and magical Stevie Nicks. I love the depths and warmth of the conversations you get in this pod - talented artists bring to life a powerful world of music, musicianship, and individuality. Hairs on neck time…

2. EVIL GENIUS

Russell Kane is a so, so clever and so fast - the energy – is compelling - He is also thoroughly excellent, and I always look forward to the fleeting moments I might get to wave a glass at him – seated or standing. Russell and assorted guests examine an unpredictable list of heroes and villains and then forensically (or otherwise) assess if things are all as they first appear – witty, insightful, and adorable.

3. CHATTING WITH CHORLEY

I had the honour of being the first (I believe) live guest on Chatting with Chorley, live at The Underbelly – and I marvel at how the Duchess of Canvey has continued to make waves with this unique and cheery up ‘codpast’. Constant anarchy, surprise singing, personal revelations to shock - it is all here!

4. THE JUMP WITH SHIRLEY MANSON

Wondrous, authentic , reveals from the most amazing musicians are teased out by the brilliant, witty, and pioneering Shirley Manson. Disasters and triumphs are both celebrated and examined -in hilarious details as the brilliant Shirley gets to the heart of music , disparity, injustice and joy.

5. OLDER AND WIDER

Older and Wider guarantees a chatty but always revealing conversation – Jenny Eclair dares to go where others may falter - and the resulting exchanges are both funny and real. The perks of maturity are given a good and much needed seeing to in Mz Eclairs’ very capable hands.

Helen Lederer is a writer, comedian and actress who set up the Comedy Women in Print Prize which highlights witty female writing. www.comedywomeninprint.co.uk