Get ready to laugh out loud as Birmingham’s cultural scene takes a hilarious turn! A groundbreaking photo exhibition celebrating the UK’s comedy legends is set to open its doors, and it’s anything but ordinary. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: among the stars featured is Birmingham’s own Joe Lycett, showcased in a costume that’s as bold as his humor—a suit made entirely of tiny, colorful stuffed animals, from pink llamas to blue hippos. And this is the part most people miss: alongside the portraits, you’ll find quirky artifacts like Lenny Henry’s 1984 tour jacket and a signed pair of Rik Mayall’s underpants. Yes, you read that right.
Curated by British photographer Andy Hollingsworth, I Photograph Comedians! will run from February 18 to May 31 at Gas Hall within Birmingham’s Museum and Art Gallery. The exhibition features 80 studio portraits of some of the UK’s most beloved comedians, including West Midlands icons like Jasper Carrott, Jo Enright, Shazia Mirza, and Stewart Lee. Hollingsworth reflects, ‘This collection spans 30 years of my work, capturing the evolving faces of British comedy and my unique interactions with these brilliant minds.’ But here’s the controversial bit: while the exhibition celebrates comedy’s past, it also raises questions about the future of the genre in an era of cancel culture and shifting societal norms. What do you think—is comedy still as fearless as it once was?**
The exhibition doesn’t stop at photos. It’s a full-on celebration of the region’s comedic heritage, with Joe Lycett’s Late Night Lycett teddy suit taking center stage alongside memorabilia from iconic venues like the Birmingham Hippodrome and Wolverhampton’s Wulfrun Hall. Zak Mensah and Sara Wajid, co-chief executives of Birmingham Museums Trust, highlight, ‘This isn’t just about laughs—it’s about honoring the local talent that’s shaped popular culture across generations.’
Accompanying the exhibition is a series of events exploring the art of comedy and laughter, making it a must-visit for both fans and curious newcomers. The museum will be open Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 to 17:00 GMT, giving you plenty of time to dive into this comedic treasure trove. So, here’s the question we’re leaving you with: Who’s your favorite comedian, and do you think their style would still resonate today? Let us know in the comments—we’re all ears!
