HEALTHWATCH Essex are excited to be taking their successful comedy show that’s breaking the taboos around men’s health, ‘A Healthy Dose of Humour’, to Harlow Playhouse this month alongside Lost Sock Productions.

Through their research into men’s health, Healthwatch Essex found there was a need to get men talking about their health and wellbeing in friendlier environments. Previously, the charity has run ‘Fellas’ Fairs’ at sporting events such as football games and cricket matches, and they have recently been using comedy to start conversations about men’s health.

A talented duo of comedians will be taking to the spotlight to entertain the audience – Stefano Paolini and Mike Gunn. A Britain’s Got Talent 2022 semi-finalist, Stefano Paolini is a British-Italian stand-up comedian known for his remarkable repertoire of voices, impressions, characters and beatboxing. Mike Gunn has appeared on Live at the Apollo (BBC) and Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow (BBC) and has been described as “one of the 10 leading stand-ups in Britain”.

Before the comedy begins, Healthwatch Essex have planned a fantastic lineup of guest speakers who will be sharing their lived experiences of addiction, mental and physical health, as well as taking part in a panel discussion with experts. Attendees will also have the chance to speak to support organisations and receive a goody bag featuring resources from men’s health support agencies across Essex.

Luke Hayes, Engagement Officer at Healthwatch Essex, said:
“Looking after your mental health doesn’t always start with a serious conversation, sometimes it starts with a laugh and the realisation you’re not on your own.

“A Healthy Dose of Humour is about bringing people together in a relaxed space where it’s okay to talk, listen and laugh. The event focuses on men’s mental health, but everyone is welcome to attend and be part of the conversation. We’ll have lived experience talks, a mental health panel, local support organisations and a couple of comedians to end the evening on a high note.
“It’s also the first step towards launching the Fellas’ Forum in Harlow next month, creating a regular space for men to meet, talk and support one another.”

Martyn Davies, founder of Lost Sock Productions said:
“After the success of the previous ‘A Healthy Dose of Humour’ events it’s so exciting to be back working in partnership with Healthwatch Essex Fellas’ Fair this year. Our new 2026 shows will see us head to Harlow Playhouse and Basildon Towngate Theatre which are great new opportunities for more people of Essex to come and join us for a fun, informative, complementary evening out. These unique events will once again include inspiring lived experience speakers on men’s health and wellbeing, followed by two professional comedians. Come listen, learn and laugh with us this year!”

Healthwatch Essex are also starting new Fellas’ Forums in Harlow, Basildon and Epping, following the success of their forums in North East Essex. The Fellas’ Forums bring together men of all ages and provide them with a space to talk about topics such as their physical and mental wellbeing, the football result from the weekend, or anything else they wish to share and discuss. The forum offers a great opportunity for networking and building friendships with people from the community who they may not have met otherwise.

Healthwatch Essex are running further events throughout the year for those who are unable to attend this event. In May, ‘A Healthy Dose of Humour’ will be at the Towngate Theatre in Basildon with Mike Gunn returning alongside Rich Wilson, known as ‘the best MC in the UK’. Healthwatch Essex are also running a special evening for armed forces personnel in Colchester as part of Armed Forces Week in June.

‘A Healthy Dose of Humour’ will be at Harlow Playhouse on Wednesday 18th March 2026. Doors open at 6.30pm for networking, with guest speakers from 7.30pm.

The event is free but tickets are required for entry – get your complimentary ticket here. Tickets are going fast so register your space now!

The show may contain adult content so 18+ only. Acts may be subject to change. Promotional photography and filming will take place at the event.