About this Event
Session Dates and Times:
22 September 2026 to 1 December 2026, 10am to 12 noon weekly
(Please note that there will be a break on October 27 for half term).
Venue:
The Greenleaf Centre, 67 -69 Greenleaf Road, Walthamstow E17 6QP
Course Tutor:
Fabrizio Matteini
Why take this course?
Comedy is never just about laughter. In this insightful ten-week course, you will explore how Shakespeare, Wilde and Bennett use wit, disguise, satire and sharp observation to reveal what society often tries to hide. Through Twelfth Night, The Importance of Being Earnest and The History Boys, you will look at how comedy opens up questions of love, class, identity, education and power.
Each session invites you to read closely, think broadly and join in thoughtful conversation. Guided by your tutor, Fabrizio Matteini, you will consider the worlds these plays came from, why their jokes still land, and how modern productions bring new meanings to the surface. The course also makes room for discussion of theatre people have seen recently, creating a rich link between classic texts and the stage today.
Whether you love theatre, enjoy clever writing, or simply want to understand why these plays continue to attract audiences, this course offers a friendly and rewarding way in. You will gain fresh confidence in reading drama, sharpen your critical eye and enjoy the pleasure of learning with others who are curious about how stories work.
This is a live, tutor led course. Learning with like-minded people, there will be lots of opportunities to share your own knowledge and ideas and to hear from others.
No previous knowledge is needed, just an interest in the topic and a willingness to explore and share ideas.
Please note there will be a break for Half Term week commencing 26th October
Since 1903 the WEA have been delivering on our charitable mission - to bring lifelong learning within reach of everybody who needs it.
Today, we continue to empower adults by delivering great teaching across England and Scotland, reaching tens of thousands of learners each year.
We believe in keeping group sizes down, making it easier for you to speak up, get to know your fellow learners and get actively involved in learning and sharing your own expertise.
Event venue & nearby stays
Greenleaf Road, Greenleaf Road, London, United Kingdom
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