Healing the world with comedy

Published on 27 September 2024

If laughter is the best medicine then Lake Macquarie has a comedy remedy at the ready when the Comedy for a Cause Mental Health showcase comes to Rathmines Theatre on 11 October.

Featuring hilarious comedians Tommy Dean, Sean Woodland, Fiona Cox, Mat Wakefield and local sensation Huw Rogers, the event aims to support Lake Macquarie & Newcastle Suicide Prevention Network to deliver their award-winning Community Kickstart Program.

Local act Rogers, a rapidly rising star in Newcastle’s thriving stand-up scene, will bring his brand of sharp, playful humour to the table, delving into the awkward interactions, cheeky family dynamics and daily ironies that come with vision impairment.

“A goal of my comedy is to normalise some of life’s adversities through positive exposure,” he said.

“I’ve learnt that laughing about difficulties and differences can help gain power over them and reclaim dignity.

“Comedy is like therapy; it’s discovering new and unexpected angles of thought, and then exploring them for resolution and catharsis.”

Lake Macquarie City Council Coordinator Social and Community Planning Stephen McAlister said the arts played an important role in boosting morale and community wellbeing.

“One of the best ways to improve and maintain good mental health and wellbeing is to connect with our communities and reduce the stigma associated with mental ill health,” he said.

“When we can support our community to laugh in the name of mental health, it creates a sense of solidarity and unity.”

Tickets are free but attendees can donate an optional amount at checkout to support the Lake Macquarie & Newcastle Suicide Prevention Network.

The show will be held at Rathmines Theatre on 11 October with doors opening at 7pm for a 7.30pm start and a 9.30pm finish with a short interval. The show is suitable for ages 15 plus.

For more information and to book visit lakemac.com.au/comedy-for-a-cause