Performing Anxiety

What do stand-up comedians gain from talking about their mental health struggles on stage, and what are the risks involved? Comedians Juliette Burton, Felicity Ward and Dave Chawner share their thoughts.

What is Performing Anxiety?

Performing Anxiety is a new podcast by the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival, created as part of a good practice resource for people making artistic work about mental health. It includes interviews with Bryony Kimmings, the vacuum cleaner, Selina Thompson, Felicity Ward and many more, and touches on autobiographical theatre, participatory projects with vulnerable people, safe spaces, leadership, and stand-up comedy. Performing Anxiety is presented by Andrew Eaton-Lewis from the Mental Health Foundation and supported by the Baring Foundation. Music by Hamish Brown. The full resource is at www.mhfestival.com/performinganxiety