It seems a long time ago now but on Thursday 7th March 2013, the eve of International Women's Day, we were busy raising money and awareness for Womankind Worldwide, a UK-based charity that supports women’s human rights around the world, with an extraordinary night of international comedy and discussion.
The evening featured a panel discussion about the place of women in society and how our humour defines us, and was followed by a showcase of some of the funniest women stand ups from around the world. Part of the new St. James Theatre Comedy Thursdays, no less than five continents were represented with comedy from North America, Australia, Europe, Africa, and Asia.
The panel discussion was hosted by 2012 Funny Women Awards finalist Viv Groskop, and featured HuffPost UK’s comedy editor, Andrea Mann; Sylvie Aboa-Bradwell, founder and executive director of African Peoples Advocacy; Amisha Ghadiali, sustainable fashion designer; Vanessa Vallely the founder of leading women’s network, job board and website WeAreTheCity and CareersCity, and 79 year old American comic Lynn Ruth Miller.
You can now listen into our lively discussion which attempted to ask questions such as ‘How do women in different parts of the world with contrasting cultures use humour?’ and ‘How can humour be used in the battle for women’s rights?’
Introduced by the founder of Funny Women, Lynne Parker and addressed by Julie Ashdown, chair of Womankind Worldwide.
Pictured from left to right: Lynn Ruth Miller, Andrea Mann, Amisha Ghadiali, Lynne Parker, Julie Ashdown, Viv Groskop, Vanessa Vallely, Sylvie Aboa-Bradwell.
International Women's Day Panel – 7th March 2013
Podcast recorded and edited by Alina Stary with assistance from Kate Bevan.
