Showtown has worked in partnership with HeadStart Blackpool and local comedian and writer Ruth E. Cockburn to deliver a stand-up comedy course for young people in Blackpool.

This inspiring project, called Open Up the Mic was delivered with two cohorts of young people and intended to build resilience and confidence. Through working with HeadStart the project gave 20 young people this special opportunity to learn more about themselves, find a voice and overcome challenges.

Over 12 weeks Ruth introduced the young people to many different forms of comedy, working with a number of different comedians from all over the country to develop confidence and performance skills. With the guidance of Ruth, the young people were able to use their imaginations to write funny song lyrics, try out improvisation and develop their own stand-up routines. Both groups grew friendships, took risks, escaped and enjoyed a lot of laughs.

The first Open up the Mic performance took place in July 2021, with 8 brave young people trying stand-up comedy for the first time at the Comedy Station, Comedy Club in Blackpool. The audience of invited guests witnessed all the hard work and dedication these young people had given to writing and crafting their individual stand-up routines, which brought on a standing ovation! The event was made even more memorable with the support of our MC, Ryan Gleeson, legendary comedian Mick Miller, and Steve Royle who closed the show with a hilarious performance of side tickling stand-up, juggling and silliness.

Following the success of the first course another group of young people were given the opportunity starting in September.

Five weeks into the course, we asked one of the young people how they felt it was going...

Our second cohort saw 10 young people perform in front of family and invited guests at the Comedy Station, Comedy Club in December, 2021. The young people’s MC was Ryan Gleeson and they were sharing the bill with comic Martin Mor who got the audience rapping.

Full of excitement and nerves to perform, they each put their new skills to the test as they delivered their first stand – up comedy set. What a performance it was, we could not be prouder of their achievements.

“I never thought I would see my children on stage in front of a crowd. The work that has been done with them is fantastic.” Family member.

We’d like to thank everyone that helped to make these courses so wonderful and to the young people who took part in both cohorts for trusting us and believing in themselves. We wish you all well on the start of your comedy careers.