Comedy / Comedy
Meet the Bristol ‘funny gal’ teaching comedy with a difference
What do you get when cross a comedian with therapy and wellbeing?
Comedy on Referral.
While trauma and stand-up comedy may seem worlds apart, one Bristol comedian is launching a pioneering course based on their connection.
is needed now More than ever
Award-winning poet, actress, stand-up and self-proclaimed Bristol ‘funny gal’ Angie Belcher has devised a new wellbeing project that draws on the healing effects of comedy for people who struggle with their mental health.
Angie champions using comedy education as a therapeutic process – photo courtesy of Angie Belcher
“Comedy doesn’t come from the happy, perfect moments of your life, but from our everyday struggles and major life events”, Angie told Bristol24/7.
She said that past traumas are, in fact, “perfect for comedy”.
Comedy on Referral is based on Angie’s eleven years of experience on the comedy circuit and research analysing the role comedy can have in wellbeing and health.
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Read more: My Bristol favourites: Angie Belcher
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At the core of the six week arts-based course is the notion that comedy gives rise to connection.
“When you are ready to explore some darker times from your history, you find that just talking about it in a funny way is quite lovely, and more importantly, it has a ripple effect on your audience, you help other people to cope with their sadness”, she said.
“When you bring your story alive for others, it makes other people feel less alone. having your experience mirrored back to you is hugely comforting.”
The course uses a combination of psychology and storytelling to help people “embody their life with our ‘inner comedian’” to equip them with skills to become more resilient and happier.
According to the St George-based comic, the process of learning how to frame your experience as comedy has a “cathartic and healing effect”.
“So, the comedy therapy course can help on a practical level with how to live with joy, rather than fear of old traumas.”
Angie has a history of producing gigs with a difference.
Two years ago, she started Aftermirth, a comedy club during the day for new parents who can bring their babies. Following its success, she designed Eldermirth, a set at Bristol Old Vic, to cater specifically for people who prefer a more “civilised” times of the day.
Previously, she’s also worked as writer in residence at schools, care homes and prisons.
This time around, her comedy can be accessed through social prescribing, a way for patients to be signposted ways improve their health, wellbeing and social welfare by connecting them to community services.
Comedy on Referral is in collaboration with the Wellspring Settlement, which delivers social prescribing in 12 GP practices in the city centre and east Bristol, and will begin in the New Year.
Main photo courtesy of Angie Belcher
Read more: Where to get mental health support in Bristol
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