Reading Group Impact
Impact of the CCSR Comedy Studies Reading Group
Since early 2024, the CCSR Brunel Comedy Studies Reading Group has been meeting every six weeks, diving into different aspects of comedy, cultural, political, historical, and theoretical. What started out as a small gathering has now grown into a regular group of 8 members. This journey has helped shape research, boost confidence, and encourage collaboration within the field.
The group welcomes doctoral researchers, academics, practitioners, and writers who share an interest in comedy and humour studies. Through open discussions and shared reading, participants have developed new ideas, reframed existing projects, and formed connections that go well beyond our meetings.
Strengthening Research and Professional Practice
Survey responses show that the reading group consistently benefits participants’ research skills and professional growth. All respondents rated the group highly for its positive influence on their work, expanding their understanding of comedy, and strengthening their sense of connection within a research community.
“Being introduced to different ways of reading, writing, and researching has definitely shaped the way I approach research.”
“The comedy examples shared by members and discussed during the sessions has broadened my knowledge of contemporary comedy.”
For some, the group has provided a fresh perspective on existing projects, ranging from doctoral theses to creative biographies, helping researchers situate their work within broader discussions in comedy studies.
Building Confidence and Community
A common theme in the feedback is how much the group helps everyone feel they belong. The every-six-weeks schedule has helped build trust, curiosity, and support among members over time.
“It has made me feel more confident in my field and given me hope that there could be a career beyond the PhD.”
“Connecting with researchers from different disciplines and at dfferent stages of their research has been really valuable. I’ve been able to speak with people directly for support.”
Participants describe the group as energising, generous, and intellectually stimulating. For early-stage researchers in particular, the reading group offers a rare opportunity to test ideas safely and build confidence in their academic voice.
Collaboration and Collective Output
The reading group has also fostered collaboration, with many participants attributing new partnerships, co-authored publications, and conference activities to the sessions.
“Our article is working out very well. This wouldn’t have developed without the group discussion.”
“Collaborative writting of the paper on Berger has been a new and fascinating project that I wouldn't have done otherwise"
“I worked with members to put forward a panel talk at a conference, which would not have happened without the reading group.”
These collaborations demonstrate the group’s role not only as a discussion space but also as a generator of tangible research outputs and professional opportunities.
Looking Ahead
As the group continues to grow, plans are underway to establish a second external group to welcome doctoral researchers from beyond Brunel, broaden participation, and strengthen networks across the comedy studies community.
“There are plans to widen the group to doctoral researchers beyond Brunel, which will help to extend networks and increase collabarative opportunities"
The reading group will continue to meet every six weeks, providing a dependable, generous space for comedy research to develop through conversation with others.