Healing Through Laughter: Stand-Up Comedy Courses for Survivors of Abuse

Survivors of child sexual abuse in the UK are finding a unique path to healing through stand-up comedy courses. This innovative initiative, led by comedian Angie Belcher, aims to empower survivors by helping them process their trauma in a supportive and creative environment.

Key Takeaways

• Stand-up comedy courses are designed for survivors of child sexual abuse.

• The initiative is led by comedian Angie Belcher, who has previously worked with survivors.

• Participants learn to write jokes and develop their comedic personas.

• The courses aim to provide a therapeutic outlet for survivors to share their experiences.

The Power of Comedy in Healing

Comedy has long been regarded as a tool for coping with difficult situations. Angie Belcher, who pioneered the stand-up comedy courses, believes that humour can be a powerful means of reclaiming agency for survivors. "Comedy is often tragedy plus time," she explains, highlighting how laughter can coexist with pain.

Belcher's two-day programme in Bristol saw 12 survivors engage in writing and performing comedy, using their experiences as a foundation for their material. This approach not only fosters creativity but also encourages participants to confront their past in a safe space.

A Unique Approach to Recovery

The courses are part of a broader initiative by the Southmead Project’s Active Recovery scheme, which aims to support survivors in their healing journey. Participants are guided through the process of joke writing, discovering their comedic voice, and learning how to incorporate humour into their everyday lives.

Ryan Moore, a participant, shared his experience: "No pill that doctors have given me makes me feel as good as when I get on stage and talk about all the difficult things that have happened in my life." He emphasised the importance of transparency in his performances, stating that while there is nothing funny about child sexual abuse, sharing his story helps audiences understand his journey.

Building Community and Support

The initiative has garnered support from various organisations dedicated to helping survivors. Gemma Halliwell, CEO of Green House, noted the importance of finding ways for survivors to hold their pain alongside hope and positivity. "Comedy can help survivors find their voice in a way that’s right for them," she said.

Jemima Foxtrot, director of Kindreds Creatives, described the process of turning trauma into comedy as a "high-risk strategy" that has yielded significant rewards for her. She explained how tackling her experiences on stage has allowed her to speak openly about her past, something she struggled with for years.

The Role of Humour in Survival

Viv Gordon, artistic director of UpFront Survivors, highlighted humour as a vital survival strategy for many in the survivor community. She stated, "For me personally, it was always a way of surviving, a way of being with unbearable pain."

James MacKinnon from Survivors UK echoed this sentiment, noting that while comedy may not be a universal solution, it offers a powerful sense of agency and a fresh perspective on difficult experiences.

Conclusion

The stand-up comedy courses for survivors of child sexual abuse represent a groundbreaking approach to healing. By harnessing the power of laughter, participants are not only reclaiming their narratives but also fostering a sense of community and support among those who have faced similar challenges. As this initiative continues to grow, it offers hope and empowerment to many who have endured unimaginable trauma.

Sources

• UK child sexual abuse survivors take standup comedy courses | Rape and sexual assault, The Guardian.