Laughter Unleashed: Women Who Shaped 20th-Century Comedy

For much of the early 20th century, comedy was considered a man’s game—but a fearless group of funny women stepped up to the mic, took over our screens, and changed the rules of laughter forever. From Lucille Ball’s unforgettable physical comedy on I Love Lucy to Carol Burnett’s groundbreaking variety show, from Phyllis Diller’s outrageous one-liners to Joan Rivers’ razor-sharp wit, women comedians not only made America laugh, they carved out lasting space in a male-dominated field.

This entertaining lecture will spotlight some of the trailblazing performers who defined an era, including Totie Fields, Gilda Radner, and Tina Fey, among others. We’ll revisit their most iconic sketches and routines, explore how they challenged stereotypes, and celebrate the joy and impact of their comedy.

Get ready for a fun-filled trip down memory lane with the women who proved that humor is—and always has been—a woman’s game too.

This engaging talk is led by Larry Wolfert, a native of 1960s Brooklyn, who grew up immersed in the rhythms of folk music and the wit of sharp stand-up comedy. After a 40+ year career in corporate America, Larry turned his lifelong passion into a second act, teaching courses at Lifelong Learning Institutes and colleges. Rather than writing essays or sermons, Larry weaves together the life stories and punchlines of comedians into thoughtful, humorous presentations that both entertain and enlighten.

This program is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library.