new study has been published in psychology journal, Behavioural Sciences<\/a>, to reveal the findings from the course on how comedy and community-based interventions are resolving this issue.<\/p>\nThrough interviews with participants of\u00a0LGBTQTeeHee!, the study found that comedy became much more than simply telling jokes. It provided a way to process difficult experiences, reframe adversity and connect with others who shared similar life experiences.<\/p>\n
The research also identified several key themes including: reclaiming difficult experiences, greater confidence, sense of community, fostering resilience and personal growth.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cComedy gave participants far more than performance skills,\u201d said Dr Anthony Gifford, Lecturer in Psychology at BCU and lead author.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis project offered a space to explore identity, connect with others who shared similar experiences and transform difficult experiences into stories of resilience.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile laughter was central to the programme, the real impact lay in the confidence, belonging and empowerment that participants described.\u201d<\/p>\n
The findings from the research also discovered community-based comedy interventions offer accessible and identity-affirming spaces through which LGBTQ+ individuals can explore wellbeing, belonging, and resilience.<\/p>\n
One of the participants spoke about the sense of validation and safety at the group: \u201cI\u2019ve spent most of my life feeling like I\u2019m broken.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut when I\u2019m with these guys, I don\u2019t feel broken. I feel normal. I feel that\u2019s invaluable.\u201d<\/p>\n
LGBTQTeeHee!\u00a0was originally developed and produced by Birmingham Rep as part of Bedlam Festival 2024, a festival celebrating creativity, wellbeing and inclusion.<\/p>\n
Following participant feedback, BCU\u00a0was commissioned by Birmingham Rep to academically evaluate the programme\u2019s feasibility for providing mental wellbeing support and improvements when it returned in 2025.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs a producing theatre, discovering, nurturing and incubating bold new ideas is part of Birmingham Rep’s DNA.\u00a0LGBTQTeeHee!\u00a0is a powerful example of The Rep’s commitment to developing innovative work with artists and communities,\u201d said Rachel Sharpe, Director of Creative Learning at Birmingham Rep.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are help to create new voices and stories that have the potential to grow beyond their first production.\u201d<\/p>\n
Rob Beck, Senior Drama Practitioner at Birmingham Rep who leads the delivery of\u00a0LGBTQTeeHee!,\u00a0said \u201cThis programme helps people find community, light in the dark and reminds us that together we are stronger.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cThis has been one of the proudest achievements in my career.\u201d<\/p>\n
LGBTQTeeHee!\u00a0returns again in autumn 2026, starting with a comedy masterclass on 22 August.\u00a0Register your interest for\u00a0LGBTQTeeHee!\u00a02026 here<\/a>.<\/p>\nPictured\u00a0(L-R): Angie Belcher, comedy consultant; Rob Beck, Birmingham Rep; Fiona Brook, BCU; Dr Anthony Gifford, BCU (photo credit: Kris Askey)<\/p>\n
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