by Jacqui Ibbotson, Culture in Common Programme Director.
At a recent artist network meeting, I was asked why Culture in Common was supporting a new Comedy Festival for the New Forest. My first response was that our research tells us that comedy is one of the most popular art forms with New Forest residents, they don’t have much access to it and they want more! But it’s much more than that. Comedy is a powerful tool that has the ability to break down barriers between people of different generations, make light of sensitive issues, find moments of joy in difficult times and encourage an appreciation of the place in which people live.
Laughing and thinking
Last weekend, I was invited by our partners at Leicester Square Theatre to attend the final of their annual ‘Sketch Off’ competition. I was immediately struck by how the audience and competing comedians covered all ages from 16 – 70+, all of us shaking off the week, laughing and relaxing together, responsive to skilled comedians but also happy to support emerging talent that didn’t always get it right. The afternoon was compered by Anna Mann, a character created by comedian Colin Hoult, with a style characterised by a combination of absurdity, wit, and the ability to make sharp observations about the world around her. Her insights into topics such as politics, relationships, and social norms were delivered with a combination of humour and incisive commentary that left her audience both laughing and thinking. This seemed to me like a good recipe to start a 3-year cultural programme in a new place where we want people to have a great time and make change happen at the same time.
Bringing people together
One of the ways that stand-up comedy can bring people together is by making light of sensitive issues. Through satire and parody, comedians can help to take the edge off of controversial topics, making them easier to discuss and reducing the fear and anxiety that can arise when talking about them. No subject was sacred at the Sketch Off – Brexit, the Cost of Living crisis, wokeness, refugees and more – but by showing that issues that people take very seriously can be approached with humour, comedians can help to create a sense of unity and shared experience among people with very differing views.
Culture in Common wants to foster a sense of place through its events and activities programme. Comedians often use local references and inside jokes in their performances, which can help to create a sense of shared experience among members of a community. This can help to build identity and belonging, as people feel a sense of camaraderie with others who “get” the local humour. By highlighting the unique characteristics and quirks of a place, comedians can also help people to see the beauty and charm in their surroundings, promoting a sense of pride and affection for their hometown or city. It was in the New Forest where the legendary Tommy Cooper lived as a young man that he stumbled upon his unique style, combining stand-up with magic tricks gone wrong, at an early performance in the British Power Boat Company canteen.
Breaking down barriers
Perhaps most importantly, stand-up comedy can break down barriers between generations. We are very aware of tensions between generations in the New Forest, especially in our ageing society when challenges for young people can seem insurmountable and increasing numbers of older people are living alone and isolated. While younger and older generations may have different cultural references and experiences, comedians can use humour to create a shared experience that bridges these divides. By tapping into common experiences and emotions, comedians can help to foster a sense of connection and understanding across generations, helping to break down stereotypes and misconceptions.
Laughter is contagious, and when people share a laugh, they are more likely to feel a sense of connection and empathy with those around them. Humour can provide a temporary escape from the challenges of daily life and help to alleviate stress and anxiety. By using humour to tackle sensitive issues in a non-threatening way, celebrate local culture, and bridge generational divides, comedians can help us to discover culture in common with other people through laughter.
I can’t wait for the launch of the New Forest Comedy Festival and hope that young and old will find something to enjoy together at a venue near you.
