Question 1

What exactly is a Scratch Night?

Accepted Answer

A Scratch Night is where artists test brand new work on a real audience, a creative laboratory where you get to witness the birth of tomorrow's shows. The work might be rough around the edges but it's more finished than in open mics. Your reactions & feedback help shape the final piece.

Question 2

How is Dead Funny different from regular Scratch Nights?

Accepted Answer

Three big differences:
1.	Theme: All performances must fit our DEAD FUNNY theme (death, dark humor, gallows comedy, afterlife—you get the idea)
2.	Payment: We split ALL profits equally (most scratch nights don't pay artists)
3.	Programmers: We actively invite venue programmers and commissioners who

Question 3

What kind of performances might I see?

Accepted Answer

Honestly? This is the first Dead Funny Scratch Night, so I'm as curious as you are! One  pitch literally came on a coffee cup, so your guess is as good as mine.
What I do know: anything live that fits our DEAD FUNNY theme is possible.

Question 4

What's the schedule?

Accepted Answer

Each act gets 20 minutes performance time, then 10 minutes for direct feedback from you. You get breaks too -  between each act -  to refill your wine and process what you've just witnessed!

Question 5

Do I have to give feedback?

Accepted Answer

Not at all! After each performance, there's an optional feedback session. Some people love sharing thoughts, others prefer to just watch. Both are welcome. If you do share feedback, keep it constructive—these artists are being brave!

Question 6

Is this going to be depressing?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely not! Artists might use humour to process life's biggest questions, but they might have interpreted the phrase very differently. The only thing we know is they’re all going to be funny. Think less funeral, more life celebration. We're laughing in the face of arts funding death, remember?

Question 7

Wait, is this ACTUALLY in a funeral directors?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We're in Compassionate Funerals in Wanstead. But forget gothic stereotypes, the venue is light, bright and welcoming. It has art on the walls. It's also fully accessible. Don't worry—we're in the public areas, not the working parts. The coffins are in another room (though the flowers are real).

Question 8

What if I don't drink alcohol?

Accepted Answer

No problem! Your free drink can be wine OR a non-alcoholic alternative. Whatever helps you enjoy the show!

Question 9

Can I come alone?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Scratch Night audiences are friendly and welcoming. Many people come solo to discover new work. The shared experience of watching experimental performance creates instant conversation starters. Plus, you're among neighbours—this is a local crowd supporting local artists.

Question 10

What happens to the work after the Scratch Night?

Accepted Answer

That depends on the artist and your feedback! Some will tour nationally, some will stay local, some will get entirely reworked and some will take entirely new directions. Acts from other scratch nights have gone on to Edinburgh Fringe, BBC Radio, and major venues.

Question 11

Why should I care about supporting artists?

Accepted Answer

Because without artists, we're existing, not living. These-your neighbours-might live or work locally and are creating work that reflects our community. With 76% of artists earning below minimum wage and half considering quitting, your ticket literally keeps creativity alive in East London.

Question 12

But why....

Accepted Answer

This is community helping community at its finest. The system looks like it’s going to fail us so we’re stepping up for each other. Plus, you get a brilliant, unusual night out while supporting local talent and local businesses!

Question 13

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