Essay: Pope Francis may have surprised many by inviting comedians to the Vatican, but the value of humour has deep roots in Catholic tradition
JOANNE M PIERCE, a specialist in medieval Christian history, looks – in an article first published on The Conversation – at how Christians have long embraced the role of humour as a valuable part of Christian spirituality…
It’s OK to joke about God but don’t offend, Pope tells comedians
Vatican City Reuters It’s OK to make fun of God as long as the joke is not offensive, Pope Francis said on Friday in a special audience with about 100 comedians, actors and writers from around the world. Those meeting him at the Vatican included US showbiz celebrities Whoopi Goldberg, Jimmy Fallon, Conan O’Brien, Chris […]
Pope Francis invites comedians including Whoopi Goldberg to Vatican
Vatican City Reuters Pope Francis, who says he regularly prays “Lord, give me a sense of humour”, will welcome comedians from around the world to a cultural event in Italy to “celebrate the beauty of human diversity,” the Vatican said on Saturday. Whoopi Goldberg, Jimmy Fallon, Conan O’Brien and Chris Rock will be among more […]
No joke: China’s backlash against stand-up stirs fear of comedy clampdown
Beijing/Shanghai, China Reuters One joke by a Chinese comedian about the nation’s military has spurred online uproar, a $US2 million fine, a police probe, a sweep of cancelled shows and fears for the survival of Chinese stand-up comedy, a rare refuge for somewhat free speech. A person walks past a show venue of stand-up comedy […]
Politics no laughing matter in poverty-hit Zimbabwe
Harare, Zimbabwe Thomson Reuters Foundation In a country where open criticism of power can spell trouble for journalists, politicians and activists, comedians say they, too, risk consequences – arrest even – for taking aim at the authorities or satirising the hardships of daily life. The long-awaited end to President Robert Mugabe’s rule in 2017 had raised hopes of a more open […]