Reading Groups

The Centre for Comedy Studies Research (CCSR) hosts two reading groups that support lively, collaborative thinking about comedy research across disciplines and career stages.

CCSR Brunel Reading Group 

Meeting every six weeks, our internal reading group brings together CCSR members, doctoral researchers, visiting doctoral researcher and affiliated scholars. The sessions are responsive and wide-ranging, reflecting the diversity of work taking place across the Centre. Readings often connect to current projects, emerging debates, or work-in-progress, creating a dynamic space for discussion and experimentation.

The group plays an important role in developing networks, fostering collaboration, and supporting research development at all levels. It has already contributed to collaborative outputs, including a jointly authored journal article, and continues to act as a space where ideas can be tested, partnerships formed, and new directions explored in a supportive environment.

Being involved in the Comedy Studies Reading Group has been a highlight of my PhD experience and has provided a sense of community that I would have otherwise lacked. My understanding of comedy studies and the way I approach my research has been greatly enriched by all the wonderful researchers involved!

CCSR Open Reading Group (Launching Soon) 

Alongside our internal meetings, we are establishing an open, online reading group that will run two to four times per year and will be available to comedy studies researchers internationally. This free and accessible forum is designed to support researchers in comedy studies, including early-career researchers and doctoral researchers, and to encourage greater collaboration across institutions.

Each session will involve pre-circulated readings and short provocations rather than formal papers, allowing space for open conversation and shared inquiry. While rooted in academic research, the group is intended to be welcoming and accessible, with no prior involvement in CCSR assumed.

The open reading group is part of CCSR’s broader impact and engagement work, creating a space for cross-institutional dialogue and helping shape future research agendas in comedy studies.

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It is a great pleasure to be involved in such a fascinating and inspiring group. What a treat to share a space with people who share similar interests to me, and who are both supportive and collaborative when it comes to new ideas.