New study connects comedy and mental wellbeing in LGBTQ+ community
New research by Birmingham City University (BCU) has found comedy can be a useful tool for improving mental wellbeing and resilience for Birmingham’s LGBTQ+ community. A new study published in the psychology journal, Behavioural Sciences, reveals findings from the LGBTQTeeHee! course, which has taken place at Birmingham Rep Theatre since 2024.
Running for the past few years, LGBTQTeeHee! gives members of the LGBTQ+ community the chance to develop their own stand-up comedy routines during a ten-week comedy course, that culminates in a final showcase in front of an audience. The programme also explores how arts and culture-based approaches, like comedy, can tackle disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges within the LGBTQ+ community.
Through interviews with participants of the programme, BCU’s 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,” explains a press release from BCU.
The research identified several key themes in tackling mental wellbeing including: the ability to reclaim difficult experiences, increasing confidence, gaining a sense of community, fostering resilience and personal growth.
“Comedy gave participants far more than performance skills,” said Dr Anthony Gifford, Lecturer in Psychology at BCU and lead author.
“This project offered a space to explore identity, connect with others who shared similar experiences and transform difficult experiences into stories of resilience.
“While laughter was central to the programme, the real impact lay in the confidence, belonging and empowerment that participants described.”
The research findings also discovered community-based comedy interventions offer accessible and identity-affirming spaces in which LGBTQ+ individuals can explore their wellbeing and belonging.
LGBTQTeeHee! was originally developed and produced by Birmingham Rep Theatre as part of Bedlam Festival 2024; a festival celebrating creativity, wellbeing and inclusion. The programme returned in 2025 and 2026.
Following participant feedback, BCU was commissioned by Birmingham Rep to academically evaluate the programme’s levels of success in connection to providing mental wellbeing support when it returned in 2025.
“As a producing theatre, discovering, nurturing and incubating bold new ideas is part of Birmingham Rep's DNA. LGBTQTeeHee! is a powerful example of The Rep's commitment to developing innovative work with artists and communities,” said Rachel Sharpe, Director of Creative Learning at Birmingham Rep.
“We are help to create new voices and stories that have the potential to grow beyond their first production.”
Rob Beck, Senior Drama Practitioner at Birmingham Rep who leads the delivery of LGBTQTeeHee!, said “This programme helps people find community, light in the dark and reminds us that together we are stronger.
“This has been one of the proudest achievements in my career.”
LGBTQTeeHee runs in 2026 from Autumn, opening with a comedy masterclass on 22nd August and then a 10-week course from 15th September. Those interested in taking part can still register their interest online. While those wishing to enjoy some new comedy and support the programme can book tickets for live performances Friday 27th November and Saturday 28th November.
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