BUDDING young comedians will get the chance to hone their jokes for free with a series of free workshops over the half-term break.

Ceredigion Museum has announced its programme of half term activities, which are free for children and young people interested in theatre and comedy.

The programme is supported by the Welsh Government’s Winter of Wellbeing initiative.

On Wednesday 23 February between 10am and 4pm, Lucy Gough and Stephanie Tillotson will facilitate a free, daylong session in two halves at the museum called ‘Patching the Whole’ for 14-18 year olds.

In Workshop 1, the participants will work on the text of Lucy’s play, Human Threads. In Workshop 2, the participants will create and perform a ten-minute performance. Lucy has written for radio, television and stage, and has been shortlisted for numerous writing awards. She currently teaches at Aberystwyth University. Stephanie, a published playwright and poet, has worked in radio, theatre and television.

On Thursday 24 February between 10am and 4pm, the comedian Eleri Morgan will deliver a comedy workshop for 7-14 year olds at the museum called ‘Quick Comedy for Kids’.

Eleri will reveal some useful hints and tips on how to be a stand-up comedian, in a session packed with fun, games, and the chance to test out a set on stage.

Eleri is a stand-up comedian and writer, raised in Aberystwyth and living in Cardiff. She has performed at gigs throughout the UK, including Komedia (Bath and Brighton); Glee Club (Cardiff and Birmingham); the Edinburgh Fringe; and the Machynlleth and Aberystwyth Comedy Festivals. She was a series regular in the BBC sitcom ‘Tourist Trap’, and a semi-finalist on the BBC’s ‘New Comedian of the Year 2021’. She has written for Mock the Week (BBC 1) and shows on S4C and BBC Radio 4.

With significant financial investment from the Welsh Government, the Winter of Wellbeing initiative encourages children and young people aged 0-25 to engage in social, cultural and physical activities outside of formal learning.

Cllr Catherine Hughes, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Porth Ceredigion, Early Intervention, Wellbeing Hubs and Culture said: “After what’s been such a challenging time, it’s welcoming news that through the Winter of Wellbeing initiative, Ceredigion Museum is able to provide these exciting activities for our young people. It will enable them to re-engage with society, reconnect with friends, and rediscover their hobbies as restrictions continue to ease.”

Both half term workshops are free, but booking is essential. Please email [email protected] to book.