Biography

Bates and Emerson’s longer names are Lizzie Bates and Anna Emerson. Brought together at the tender age of eleven through a shared passion for the beautiful game (primary school netball), we later turned to comedy as a result of the painful realisation that our energies would be better invested in a less physically challenging activity. After performing together as part of various arrangements for 4 years, we finally formed the double act Bates and Emerson whilst both attempting to study English at Bristol University.

Our act is heavily character-driven, comprising sketch-based slapstick and silliness, woven together with verbal dexterity and an extensive wardrobe of props and costumes.

Following a well-received performance as part of the Babycham Funny Women competition at Bristol’s Jesters Comedy Club, we went on to be part of ‘This Modern Happening’ for Opus Productions at Oxford’s Jericho Tavern. We reached the quarter finals of the Laughing Horse New Act Competition 2006, and have been appearing weekly as part of Brian Luff’s Sketch Club, Downstairs at the King’s Head in north London.