On Sunday, 26 April, Faro’s annual Heritage Day (Erfgoeddag) takes place. Kazerne Dossin will open its doors for free and host a special event to mark the occasion.
Panel Discussion – Laughter on the Edge: Humor as a Breaking Point in Extreme History
This year’s Heritage Day theme is “Humor”: a delicate subject within the context of Kazerne Dossin. Yet, it raises fascinating questions. During this panel discussion, we explore the relationship between humor and human suffering, war, and victimhood. Together with an academic, a comedian, and a public thinker, we examine when humor opens up space for reflection and when it shuts it down or causes harm. The debate will be introduced and moderated by Tomas Baum, Director of Kazerne Dossin. Please note: This panel discussion will be held in Dutch.
Dr. Madelijn Strick is a social psychologist at Utrecht University and a leading expert on the science of humor. Her work explores the significance of humor, bridging insights from psychology and neuroscience. She is the academic authority on humor concerning complex and sensitive themes.
Bert Gabriëls is a comedian and playwright with a background as a legal expert in immigration law. Having previously worked for the Ministry of Asylum and Migration, he currently serves the Flemish government and the universities of Antwerp and Ghent. As a comedian, he doesn’t shy away from complex issues, approaching them with an open mind. His work aims to make weighty subjects accessible through a blend of humour, satire, and a sharp, critical eye.
Dalilla Hermans is an author, journalist, and an influential voice in the public debate on representation and inequality. She is no stranger to the stage; having delivered over three hundred lectures, workshops, and keynotes on racism and diversity, she now joins us to address the question: should we really be able to laugh at everything?