Comedy shows bring light relief

Module Overview

Farmers and growers in Hawke’s Bay were treated to a night out full of belly laughs in what’s been a tough year for locals following the devastation caused by Cyclone Gabrielle in February.

Semi-retired farmer Rachel Train, along with the support of Farmstrong and the local community, helped organise two comedy shows in Puketitiri and Napier at the end of November.

The shows featured an all-star line-up of four of the country’s top comedians including Nick Rado, Courtney Dawson, Kajun Brooking and Wilson Dixon.

Rachel says the shows were an absolute hit and gave locals a chance to get off the farm, connect with others and have a fun night out after a challenging year.

“It was great to bring people together in a positive way and give them the opportunity to have a chat about how they’re doing, talk about personal progress or just see how their neighbours are doing and if they need a hand,” Rachel says.

“The comedians were hilarious, but having everyone come together and have a good time was the best part. Catching up and having a laugh with other people was what made it so special.”

Rural Comedy Toolkit available

To help people who are interested in organising a successful comedy show and bringing their rural community together, Farmstrong has published a Rural Comedy Toolkit, which guides people though the steps involved.

Rachel, who lives in Patoka, is no stranger to organising events in her local community and says the toolkit is a great initiative.

“Over the years I’ve helped organise fundraisers and comedy shows with the help and support of the local community and businesses, and it’s been amazing,” she says.

Her experience organising events has taught her many things:

“It’s all about having a plan and working with the right people to make things happen. It’s so worth it in the end when you see the benefits to the community.”

Positive signs ahead

Rachel says the past year has been tough for locals, but things are starting to look up.

“It’s been a long haul, but we’re starting to see the grass growing back, fences back up and farms back to a workable state. We’re grateful for all the help and donations we’ve received. It’s very humbling and has made things easier.”

She says that after challenging times, if you can still laugh and enjoy the small pleasures, then there’s still hope for a positive outcome.

“Laughter is definitely the best medicine sometimes.”

If you’re interested in organising a comedy show for your local area, then check out Farmstrong’s Rural Comedy Toolkit