A REFUGEE charity has announced it is hosting a comedy show fundraiser at the Fringe Festival to show solidarity through laughter.
The Scottish Refugee Council (SRC) is hosting a No Borders Comedy evening in Edinburgh at The Stand Comedy Club after hosting a sold-out Glasgow show earlier this year.
The lineup for the evening will showcase some of the best talent on show at this year's festival.
All proceeds raised from the event will go towards the vital work of the Scottish Refugee Council who work to support people seeking safety in Scotland.
The fundraiser will be hosted by Jay Lafferty and joined by Vittorio Angelone, Lauren Pattison, Rosco McClelland, Jin Hao Li and Hasan Al-Habib on August 10.
Lafferty (below), best known for her work on BBC programs such as Breaking the News and Scot Squad, said she is looking forward to hosting the event.
She said: “I’m very pleased to have the opportunity to host this gig - the work Scottish Refugee Council do is crucial to making sure that those who have experienced unthinkable trauma feel safe and settled in Scotland.”
A spokesperson for SRC outlined the message the fundraiser aims to share, that people seeking refuge in Scotland are welcome.
They said: “Following on from the success of our last No Borders Comedy Night in Glasgow, which raised nearly £9000, we have organised another comedy extravaganza that we are very excited to be bringing to the Edinburgh Festival!
“Our services at Scottish Refugee Council have never been needed more. These events are a great way to spread the word about our work and share a message of solidarity with people seeking safety in Scotland and provide support for the delivery of our crucial services.”
Irish comedian Vittorio Angelone who sold out his debut run at the Fringe in 2022 said he understands the value of charity fundraisers to help those who arrive in Scotland adjust to life and integrate into their new communities.
“Supporting refugees and asylum seekers is crucial in building a society built around kindness, fairness and humanity.
“Having worked with similar charities in the past I understand the value of fundraising gigs like these to assist in them adjusting to life in the UK, integrating into their new life and having opportunities to work and bring immeasurable value to the country.”
Lauren Pattison (below) who was nominated for the Dave Comedy Awards Best Show Nominee at the Fringe in 2022 said it is important to stand up for what you believe in.
She added: “It’s a real privilege to be part of this event and support such a wonderful cause!
“It’s so important stand up for what you believe in, and comedy is such a great way of bringing people together.”
SRC helps to support thousands of men, women and children rebuild their lives in Scotland.
The charity offers direct support and advice services, and promotes community integration while standing up for refugee rights.
SRC also campaigns for a fairer, more humane asylum system as the charity believes everyone seeking safety should receive the same warm welcome and respect, no matter where they’re from.
You can find further information and tickets for the event here.
