Explore the surprising impacts of humour on health in this unique mix of comedy and expert insights.

In times of growing social isolation and health challenges, could laughter offer unexpected benefits? Our scientists, industry experts and researchers join forces with comedy acts to unpack how humour might support well-being and strengthen connections.

Tickets are free but essential, secure yours now to avoid missing out.

The experts

Associate Professor Alison Canty, neuroscientist, Wicking Dementia Research Education Centre, University of Tasmania
Dr Daryl Peebles, writer, performer and ‘grandfather of Tasmanian comedy’
Dr David Bakker, Clinical Psychologist, Archer Street Health and Lecturer in Clinical Psychology, University of Tasmania
Dannielle Jackson, project manager, drama therapist, counsellor, and performance artist, Terrapin Puppet Theatre
Scott Lleonart, comedian and 2025 RAW Comedy Tasmania State Final winner
Hosted by Dr Larissa Bartlett, mindfulness teacher and The Mind Games Research Fellow (Mental Health), Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania

Pre-event refreshments

Head to the venue early and enjoy complimentary refreshments from 5.30pm.

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About the experts

Dr Daryl Peebles has spent over 40 years making people laugh as a comedian, writer, ventriloquist, and magician. His comedy plays have been performed across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, and he regularly takes to the stage as an MC, after-dinner speaker, and charity auctioneer. But there’s a serious side to his humour. With a PhD from the University of Tasmania, Daryl’s research explored The Value of Humour in Workplaces, uncovering how laughter can shape well-being and productivity. Now, he’s turned his focus to the power of humour in ageing and mental health. A regular performer in the Mental Health Week Comedy Roadshow, he’s soon bringing his latest show, Stand Up for Seniors (but not necessarily on the bus), to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Associate Professor Alison Canty is a neuroscientist at the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre at the University of Tasmania. Her research focuses on the brain ands and its potential to repair and regenerate, particularly in the context of ageing and dementia. Her career has taken her to top institutions like the Karolinska Institute and Imperial College London. In 2022, she was named an Atlantic Fellow for Equity in Brain Health, and spent 12 months at The Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin. Passionate about advancing dementia care, Associate Professor Canty leads the suite of Wicking Dementia Education programs, combining research with practical, impactful education.

Dr David Bakker is a clinical psychologist based in Hobart, Tasmania. He teaches postgraduate psychology at the University of Tasmania and works in private practice at Archer Street Health. He is also a stand-up comedian and runs The Clubhouse; a regular comedy room in Hobart headlined by interstate comedians. Clubhouse headliners have included Hannah Gadsby, Ronny Chieng, Rhys Nicholson, Denise Scott, Felicity Ward, and many more. He also produces the Tassie Mental Health Comedy Roadshow, which tours to regional locations every year in mental health week.

Dannielle Jackson is a project manager, drama therapist, counsellor, and performance artist with Terrapin Puppet Theatre. She has extensive experience developing unique work in a variety of community settings, including First Nations communities and the aged care sector. In 2020, she won the Australasian Elder Care Award for Best Dementia Care Program, where she crafted films from clients' stories, which were then screened across NSW cinemas. Dannie's 15-year career with some of Australia's leading theatre companies informs her therapeutic approach, blending professional artistry with transformative therapy.

Scott Lleonart started stand-up comedy in late 2024 and has performed in rooms across lutruwita, with highlights including the Hobart Festival of Comedy and representing Tasmania in this year’s RAW Comedy competition. By day, Scott works as a receptionist at a psychology practice, where he’s seen firsthand how humour and levity can support mental health and healing. Much of his material draws from personal experience, including his journey with cancer from a young age, using comedy as a way to process and connect.

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