A Decade After Victoria Wood’s Death: Celebrating Her Legacy and Introducing Her Work to a New Generation
It has been ten years since the world lost one of its most beloved comedians, Victoria Wood. Her untimely death at the age of 62 left a void in the entertainment industry, but her legacy and impact continue to live on. As we remember her through her timeless comedy and music, a new brass band commission and bursary scheme are set to honor her memory and introduce her work to a new generation.
Close friend and collaborator Catherine Edis, who worked with Wood for over 20 years, reflects on the comedian’s private world, disciplined craft, and enduring love for music. In an exclusive interview, she shares her insights into Wood’s life and the legacy she left behind.
Edis fondly recalls her first meeting with Wood, “We met on the set of a TV show, and I remember being blown away by her wit and humor. We clicked immediately, and our friendship blossomed from there.” From then on, the two formed a creative partnership that produced some of the most iconic and beloved comedy sketches, sitcoms, and musicals.
Wood’s sharp wit and observational humor were a reflection of her private world. Edis describes her as a disciplined writer who would often spend hours perfecting her jokes and scripts. “She was a perfectionist, and her attention to detail was remarkable. She never settled for anything less than perfect when it came to her craft.” This dedication and commitment to her work were evident in her performances, which were always met with roaring laughter and applause.
Aside from her comedic genius, Wood was also a talented musician. She began playing the piano at the age of seven and continued to incorporate her musical talents into her comedy. Edis shares, “Victoria had a deep love for music, and it was a significant part of her life. She would often write original songs for her shows, and her musical numbers were always a hit with the audience.”
In honor of Wood’s love for music, the Victoria Wood Brass Band Commission was launched in 2019. The commission, in collaboration with the Manchester Camerata orchestra, invites brass bands to create new works inspired by Wood’s music and comedy. The winning composition, “Victoria Wood Suite,” was premiered in October 2020, receiving critical acclaim and delighting audiences with its witty and uplifting melodies.
In addition to the commission, the Victoria Wood Bursary Scheme was also established to encourage young and aspiring female writers to pursue careers in comedy. The scheme offers financial support and mentorship to talented writers, providing them with the resources and opportunities to showcase their work. “Victoria was a strong advocate for women in comedy, and this bursary is a testament to her values and beliefs. She would be thrilled to see her legacy helping other women fulfill their dreams,” says Edis.
As we celebrate Wood’s legacy, the new commission and bursary scheme serve as a reminder of her enduring impact on the entertainment industry. Her work continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, and her unique blend of comedy and music remains timeless. Through these initiatives, her legacy will continue to inspire and entertain future generations.
Edis concludes, “Victoria was not only a talented comedian and musician, but she was also a dear friend. Her legacy lives on through her work and the memories she left with those who knew her. I am grateful to have been a part of her life and to witness firsthand the joy and laughter she brought to people’s lives. I am confident that her legacy will continue to shine for many years to come.”
