Never mind the fizzing variety (though Lord knows, there are bound to be enough of those plink-plinking around come January 1st), and instead resolve (see what I did?) to enroll on the Chuckles Comedy Workshops at the Vaad Theatre from the 15th onwards! Here’s a bit of info from course organizers Liam and Harriet - over to you, chaps…. For further details, and to reserve your places, please contact Harriet on 07971 765110 or Liam on 07717 771732.

“CHUCKLES COMEDY CO are bringing comedy / drama workshops for teenagers from varied backgrounds in Birmingham and surrounding areas to the award winning popular arts venue, The Custard Factory. This ground breaking new scheme kicks off on Thursday the 15th January and will continue every Thursday thereafter.”

At the moment there are no workshops in The West Midlands based on comedy performance. These days teenagers seem to see and deal with so much and comedy can help to supply a light relief to this.

The workshops aid the students to be involved in a positive, creative and unique influence. They offer a great insight into the comedy industry whilst also learning the basic concepts of comedy writing and performance. Working together with the workshop leaders and special guests, the teenagers will gain confidence in everyday life as well as in comedy technique. The students will be working towards a showcase of the work to be performed in the on-site theatre.

The Custard Factory is an award winning venue and Chuckles Comedy believe that this is a great venue to start the new term.

About CHUCKLES COMEDY

Chuckles Comedy was co-founded in 2005 by Harriet Dyer and Liam Jones, graduates of the University of Wolverhampton. Whilst at University they both developed a real passion for comedy, performance and writing after taking a module based on Stand-up…

Harriet Dyer - Has been in the comedy circuit for over 3 years and has performed in many unions, theatres, and festivals around the country. She taught drama throughout her teenage years in Cornwall and recently won a prize for her sell-out stand-up comedy routine and work with, ‘Raving Loonies Stole My Heart’ who performed at the Edinburgh Festival in 2007. She also came in the top three in a national new talent award in 2007.

Liam Jones - Has also performed in several comedy venues including various theatres, bars and clubs in the West Midlands. He was educated and excelled in performance to university level and beyond. Liam regularly curates comedy events in Coventry and Wolverhampton, seeing big names such as Norman Lovett (Red Dwarf) appear at his venues. As another member of, ‘Raving Loonies’ he starred with Harriet at the Edinburgh Festival 2007 and took part in TV work - BBC Three’s UPSTAGED.

Information : Chuckles workshops will start on Thursday the 15th January 2009, 7-9pm at The Custard Factory in Digbeth Birmingham. They will run regularly for 12 weeks for 13-19 year olds. £8 per session. Ring to book place and for free session deals and discounts.

Check out Tara Parashar and friends at the Vaad Theatre this coming Sunday, 28th December, for a scintillating acoustic gig. Doors open at seven pm. More gigs to follow in 2009 - feel free to contact me if you’d like to get involved!

Beginning January 2009, the Vaad Theatre sees the start of the Chuckles comedy workshops being run by Harriet Dyer. Expert tuition, coupled with inspired lunacy, and a healthy dollop of custard artistry. Book now!

Chug that mulled wine and get into the festive spirit this weekend at the Vaad Gallery! For further details, contact Yvonne on 07745 421706.

Take a walk on the Wildtouch this Thursday and Friday, and pick up a pretty, sparkling precious thing in the CF reception area. Come take a look - who knows what you will find?!