Jest For Men: Comedy Course

Are you ready to step into the spotlight and make people laugh? Jest for Men is a unique 6-week comedy course for aspiring funnymen. Hosted by Alright Mate? and led by award-winning comedian and comedy educator Angie Belcher, this course offers a rare opportunity to develop your comedic voice, gain confidence, and perform live on stage!
Course Details:

Times: 12pm - 2pm

Dates: 24th September, 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd October, 5th November

Open mic: 17th November @ 2pm

• Write Your Own Comedy Set: Learn to craft a 5-minute stand-up routine using the comedic techniques that professional comedians swear by.
  
• Build Confidence & Overcome Nerves: Gain invaluable skills to manage stage fright and boost your self-confidence, both on and off the stage.
  
• Personal Feedback: Receive tailored guidance and constructive feedback on your material throughout the course.
  
• Supportive Environment: Work together with like-minded individuals, supporting each other as you explore the world of comedy.
  
• Live Performance: Showcase your new material in front of a live audience at The Bootlegger on 17th November

About Alright Mate?

Alright Mate? is an award winning arts organisation who make participatory art projects that normalise conversations about men’s mental health.
About Angie Belcher

Angie is a facilitator, actor, writer and stand-up comedian with over 15 years’ experience creating and presenting shows. An expert communicator, she regularly comperes Glastonbury Festival’s raucous Cabaret Tent and is an accomplished stand-up comedian and writer. Her show “Mythical Creature” won North East Theatre Guide’s best show at Edinburgh Festival and she gained 3rd Place in What The Frocks’ best UK Comedy Newcomer competition 2015.

The course is borne out of a year-long research project to research the effects of comedy as a therapeutic device on people’s wellbeing and mental health. This 6-week course (initially piloted with SPEAR-The Wellspring Social Prescribing for Equality and Resilience Team in Bristol) takes clients through the writing, performance and analysis of using their personal stories to create a 5-minute stand-up comedy set.

What You'll Learn

• Create Your Comedy Persona: Explore your unique comedic style and how it connects to your true self.
  
• Crafting Comedy from Real Life: Learn how to turn everyday situations, thoughts, and beliefs into engaging, funny stories.
  
• Developing a Routine: Use comedic devices to create captivating and humorous anecdotes.
  
• Mastering Performance Skills: Understand how to use your body, voice, and breath to enhance your delivery.
  
• Handling the Stage: Gain techniques to manage nerves, use a microphone, and make an impact on stage.
  
• Taking Comedy Beyond the Course: Learn how to carry your newfound confidence and skills into everyday life.

Why Comedy?

Comedy isn't just about making people laugh; it’s a powerful tool for mental and emotional well-being. Research shows that laughter:

• Reduces Stress: Lowers cortisol levels, the body's main stress hormone.
  
• Boosts Happiness: Increases the production of endorphins, enhancing feelings of joy and reducing pain.
  
• Strengthens Immunity: Laughter can even improve your immune system, helping you to feel healthier and more resilient.

Students often remark that they feel stronger, more resilient, and happier through exploring their personal histories through stand-up comedy.
Sign Up Today!

Don’t miss your chance to transform your stories into laughter. Whether you're looking to try something new, overcome stage fright, meet new people, or just want to make people laugh, this course is for you.

Places are subsidised by the National Lottery Community Fund. Hot drinks, refreshments and lunch are provided.

Spaces are limited so book now to avoid disappointment!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Bootlegger, 162-163 Fore Street, Exeter, United Kingdom