January as a month can be quite bleak, evenings are dark and funds are low.

But, as a wise man once said – we make our own happiness.

In the spirit of this, for anyone who may need a laugh to beat the January blues, Irish Country Living has compiled a list of three of the best ‘sketch video comedians’ you can check out online now.

These individuals and groups have used the internet to springboard their careers, posting funny videos on social media and have amassed thousands of fans as a result.

Bernard Casey

From Kerry, Bernard Casey’s videos are mostly monologues and could be an actual conversation in any shop, pub or post office in the Kingdom. From Operation Transformation to TV licences and Leaving Cert results, the topics are ones we speak about daily. Such is the familiarity of these videos, people see something of themselves, their family and their friends in them.

These characters are brilliantly brought to life by Bernard’s accent, facial expressions and of course, false teeth. At present he is gigging in popular venues around the country with his stand-up show.

For more information see Bernard Casey Comedy on Facebook.

CCCahoots

Along with their online portfolio, this Cork-based group of six has also produced work for TV and radio. Their short scenes are incredibly well-written and varied. They often take a humorous slant on well-known characters from people’s school days, such as Peig Sayers and Ann and Barry, as well as an innovative look at popular culture and life milestones. These comedians, come actors, have great chemistry and their productions are finished to a high quality. CCCahoots are currently touring with their live sketch show.

For more information see www.cccahoots.com.

Foil, Arms and Hog

Undeniably one of the most successful Irish comedy acts in recent years, Foil, Arms and Hog are pioneers of the sketch video on social media in this country and continue to post a video weekly on both their Facebook and YouTube channels. They were first formed when the three members met while studying at University College Dublin (UCD) and have gone on to tour Ireland, America and Australia, as well as playing the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Their sketches continue to entertain fans, proving their enduring popularity.

For a list of upcoming tour dates see www.foilarmsandhog.ie.