5 gold rings: comedians and performers

As we move towards Christmas, we thought we'd take a moment to look back at some of the hundreds of columns we've published across the last year.

And it is hundreds: we publish a new piece every working day - meaning there's plenty to catch-up on if you're at a loose end this holiday.

Here are 5 pieces which we hope were particularly useful to comedians and performers.

1) Get a grip on your self-tape

In this piece, writer and director Sherice Griffiths discussed how to record the perfect self-tape.

Check out her top tips on setting the scene, looking the part, reviewing and editing.

2) The case for improv

The country is full of improv groups, of various standards, from student troupes to professionals.

Here's why all comedy creators should consider joining one. That's right, even you...

3) Six of the best: tips for stand-ups

Here are six tips that all stand-ups should bear in mind.

Is there anything worse than a drunk stand-up? (Actually, yes.)

4) Going live

In a slightly different approach to live performance, Micheál Jacob offered some insight into putting together a storytelling show.

An intriguing alternative to stand-up - there is a thriving storytelling scene in most of our major cities - why not consider staging one next year?

5) An actor's life for me

Benjamin May is an actor and voice over artist.

Here, he discussed how he built and sustains his career - and offered his three key rules for surviving and succeeding in the industry. The good news is, the longer you stick around after drama school, the easier it should get...