HystericalFest (STREAMING LINK) available by 8/31/26 by 2 pm-11/28/26

This is a recording of HystericalFest originally performed on weekend of August 28-30 at Piven Theatre Workshop in Evanston, IL. Produced by Hysterical Productions/Violet Surprise Theatre & Terri Lynn Hudson (consulting). 2 hours long. Second version with
ASL available. We recommend activating the closed captioning on YouTube to capture words that may be unclear, such as in the first short play. Available through 11/28/26

The recording features several filmed performances by actors (and one director) with autoimmune issues, including Long Covid, working from home.

Our philosophy: For centuries, a way to diagnose a woman (or person of a historically marginalized gender) for hysteria is if they were dramatic and seeking attention about their otherwise invisible illness. In this short comedy festival, we are turning the tables, embracing the forbidden, literally "acting out." Comedy reflects the absurdity of our experiences, and theater provides a way to literally relieve isolation, build community, and confront stigma.