A Brief History of “Women Aren’t Funny”

As soon as the concept of "a sense of humor" entered the cultural conscious, women have been accused of not having one. Part lecture, part discussion, this workshop will briefly trace the (frustrating) history of the "women aren't funny" myth and its foundations in popular media and the cultural conscious. From silent film and vaudeville to late night shows and social media, we'll look at the relationship between popular media, gender, and social power and how funny folks that aren't straight, white men have fought to take up space at the mic. Our presenter, Dr. Stephanie Brown, is an Assistant Professor of Media and Communication at Washington College in Chestertown, Maryland where she teaches classes on popular media, media production, and media history. She writes about the intersection of gender, embodiment, and performance in popular media and is working on a book about gendered labor, authenticity, and local comedy. After the lecture, you will hear from a panel of funny women and there will be time for discussion and questions. You panelists include: Delia Amendolia, Zoe Dixon, Madinah, and Shevaun Brannigan Guest Check-In: All guests must check in with building security in the lobby and present a valid ID. Take the elevator to the 3rd floor. Once you reach the 3rd floor, turn left out of the elevator and Culture Works is at the end of the hall.