Laughter and inclusivity are set to take centre stage this February at Wanstead Library with Laugh-Able, a rising comedy night known for its pioneering focus on accessibility and diversity. As part of LGBT+ History Month 2026, Laugh-Able brings a special edition event on Wednesday 18 February from 19:30 to 21:30, designed to be not only side-splitting but also socially impactful.
The evening promises laughter with a message – an evening celebrating queer voices, neurodivergent talent, and comedians often under-represented in mainstream media. Set against the charming backdrop of East London’s Wanstead Library, this event is crafted for everyone, regardless of background, identity, or ability.
This article explores everything you need to know about the event – from its founding mission to the featured acts of the night, as well as its significance in the current cultural climate.
What is Laugh-Able?
Laugh-Able is a UK-based accessible comedy platform launched in 2021 with a mission to centre disabled, neurodivergent, working-class, LGBTQ+, and minority ethnic performers. The project quickly developed a loyal following through its commitment to access-first events that ensure everyone – from performers to audience members – can participate without barriers.
It was founded by Juliette Burton, an award-winning performer and mental health advocate, known for her deeply personal, yet uplifting shows tackling topics such as body image, OCD, and trauma. Through Laugh-Able, Burton has succeeded in creating a space where comedians and audiences can come together free from discrimination, assumption, or discomfort.
What separates Laugh-Able from usual open-mic or comedy circuits is its proactive approach to accessibility:
- Venues with ramp or step-free access
- BSL interpretation at select shows
- Flexible ticket pricing (“pay what you can” models)
- Content warnings and quiet areas for overstimulation
- Show formats adapted for neurodivergent attendees
These features aim to shatter traditional barriers in the entertainment industry and amplify marginalised voices in a traditionally exclusive industry.
As part of a broader wave of inclusive arts programming throughout the city, this event adds to the range of London lifestyle offerings aimed at reflecting modern British values.
How the Comedy Night Works
Each Laugh-Able event follows a familiar, relaxed format but is designed carefully to prioritise inclusion and safety. Shows are typically 2 hours in length including an interval, with 4 to 6 performers per event, each offering a unique comedic perspective.
For the LGBT+ History Month special at Wanstead Library, the evening will spotlight LGBTQ+ artists, their lived experiences, and their satire that critiques societal norms, often with warmth and honesty. Audience members can expect observational comedy, storytelling, character work, and even avant-garde performance pieces – all within a relaxed, supportive environment.
There are often informal post-show hangouts, which offer a chance to meet artists, connect with other audiences, and explore the themes discussed during the performances. Events like these supplement London’s rich event calendar, with a sharper focus on equity and identity.
Comedy Acts and Artist Line-up
While exact line-ups for this year’s event may be finalised closer to the date, previous guest acts and Laugh-Able regulars provide a good indication of the kind of talent expected.
Here is a list of notable performers associated with Laugh-Able’s inclusive circuit:
- Abigoliah Schamaun – A bold American-born comic who weaves queerness, feminism, and culture shock into snappy stand-up.
- Fatiha El-Ghorri – A hijab-wearing comedian known for progressive perspectives laced with biting humour and social commentary.
- Jodie Mitchell – A standout non-binary comedian and Drag King, Mitchell mixes political edge with sarcasm and flair.
- Chris Fonseca – A Deaf comedian who performs in BSL and incorporates beatboxing to bridge sensory differences through rhythm and humour.
- Mark Nicholas – A rising talent who tackles mental health and queerness with disarming sincerity and wit.
Details for Wanstead Library on 18 February include a line-up of queer and disabled comics, aligned with the theme of reflection, celebration, and rebellion – the key elements of LGBT+ History Month in the UK.
Noteworthy Attributes of the Event
February’s Laugh-Able at Wanstead Library stands out for several reasons, positioning itself not merely as a night of comedy but as a powerful social intervention.
Venue Accessibility Highlights:
- Fully accessible venue with step-free entrance
- Accessible toilets
- Options for BSL interpretation (advance notice may apply)
- Quiet spaces for those overwhelmed or needing a break
Vibe & Atmosphere:
- Calm lighting and comfortable seating
- Trigger warnings where necessary
- Content moderation to prevent offensive or discriminatory material
- Alcohol-free environment (subject to venue policy), ideal for sober attendees
Inclusive Community Ethos:
- “No Punching Down” policy – targeting hate, stereotypes or marginalisation is strictly avoided
- Encourages audience diversity – allies, families, and friends are welcome
- Queer-friendly environment for performers and audiences alike
Whether you’re an active participant in London’s cultural events or simply looking for communal expressions of joy and justice, Laugh-Able offers an experience that’s both meaningful and memorable.
Historical and Cultural Significance: LGBT+ History Month
LGBT+ History Month is observed every February in the United Kingdom. It was initiated by Schools OUT UK in 2005 and is dedicated to promoting equality and diversity by raising awareness of the history of LGBTQ+ people.
The 2026 theme is “Shared Journeys”, highlighting the intersections of identity, migration, love, justice, and expression. Laugh-Able’s programming aligns with this year’s theme by spotlighting intersections such as disability and queerness, trans lives on stage, race within LGBTQ+ circles, and neurodivergence within the queer community.
Similar to the way political and civic subjects are elevated during awareness months, this comedy event extends the impact of cultural dialogue beyond seminars and into shared joy.
Laugh-Able doesn’t simply talk about inclusion – it practises it by handing the microphone to the oft-silenced, letting their narratives reclaim dignity, space, and joy.
Table: Key Event Information
The table below summarises the relevant details for attendees and interested parties:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Laugh-Able Comedy Night – LGBT+ History Month Special |
| Date & Time | Wednesday 18 February, 19:30 – 21:30 |
| Location | Wanstead Library, London (Redbridge borough) |
| Ticket Model | Pay What You Can / Sliding Scale |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair access, BSL option, quiet zones |
| Target Audience | LGBTQ+ community, disabled and neurodivergent individuals, allies, East London locals |
Feedback from past attendees has highlighted the warmth and inclusivity of these events, which fuse genuine understanding of accessibility with high-quality comedic delivery.
Emerging Trends and Recent Developments
In the past year, Laugh-Able has undergone several developments reflecting its continued and rapid growth in the UK’s comedy scene. Among notable recent changes:
- Partnerships with local councils such as Redbridge and Hackney to expand shows in various borough libraries and community centres.
- More regional tours, bringing comedy to less central parts of the UK including Bristol, Leeds, and Kent.
- Intersectional programming, with events aligned to Black History Month, Disability History Month, and Pride – making comedy part of the wider civic dialogue.
- Increased focus on mental health support backstage, including quiet rooms, support animals, and “comedian care” initiatives.
These inclusive approaches mirror broader national movements where the intersection of arts, awareness, and social purpose is gaining traction, much like events such as the Wuthering Heights London premiere that mesh cultural experience with deeper narratives.
Laugh-Able has been lauded by disability rights groups and LGBTQ+ networks alike for treating entertainment inclusivity not as a tick-box practice, but as a foundational principle.
Who Is This For?
While heavily focused on LGBTQ+ and disabled performers, the Laugh-Able Comedy Night is open and welcoming to everyone interested in uplifting, inclusive humour. Whether you’re:
- A queer person looking for an affirming performance space
- A disabled or neurodivergent individual often sidelined by mainstream events
- A parent introducing your teen to conscious comedy
- An ally learning about intersectionality through the power of story
- A comedy lover desiring more than just the old pub-style gags
…there’s space for you in the audience.
This inclusive design ensures people of all backgrounds feel not only welcome but central. The comedy isn’t about mocking difference – it’s about celebrating it. It’s humour built not on power imbalance but shared vulnerability and resilience.
Tips and Recommendations for Attendees
Attending your first Laugh-Able event? Here are a few suggestions to get the most out of it.
● Arrive early – Doors often open 30 minutes in advance. This allows you to pick a suitable seat, acclimatise, or settle if you have sensory needs.
● Respect the space – Engage with empathy. Do not heckle. If a subject triggers discomfort, feel free to quietly leave or move to a quiet space.
● Check access needs – If you require special seating, BSL interpretation, or would like to alert organisers of a specific requirement, emailing beforehand helps a great deal.
● Use the pay-what-you-can model responsibly – Pay more if you can afford to; pay less if needed. It keeps the model sustainable for others.
● Stay for the chat – Many laughs happen post-show too. It’s a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and support creatives.
The upcoming Laugh-Able comedy night at Wanstead Library is a perfect example of how the arts can reflect the full diversity of contemporary British life. Through its consideration of access, respect for identities, and dedication to platforming excellent talent, Laugh-Able has created a blueprint for what modern, inclusive comedy should look and feel like.
For many, this isn’t just a night out – it’s a necessary cultural counterbalance. One that’s affordable, inclusive, brilliantly heart-warming, and gloriously funny all at once. Whether you laugh through disclosure, satire, or sheer absurdism, there’s rarely a better space to honour LGBT+ History Month than one that holds the microphone up to the community itself.
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