Stomping Ground Comedy is on a mission to connect people through comedy—and its new online group called The Social Connection is its answer to keeping people connected—and laughing—during the coronavirus quarantine. 

During this period of uncertainty and isolation, Stomping Ground wants to provide a sense of community and comfort to people where they can laugh, vent, and be grateful—together. The new online social support group can give an outlet to adults through comedy, Stomping Ground said.

Stomping Ground Comedy Theater & Training Center, founded in 2017, is Dallas’ only nonprofit theatre dedicated to comedy. The online support group will be led by therapist Andrea Baum, M.Ed, LPC, and a comedian from a rotating group of improv instructors. 

“At a time where society is extremely disconnected and unsure of what is to come, The Social Connection hopes to provide a sense of community and comfort to people who are in similar situations,” Stomping Ground Comedy said in a statement. 

Hosted every weeknight until the end of quarantine, The Social Connection is “Pay What You Can” to make the group more accessible for all. The theater allows individual sponsorship, allowing people to purchase a session for someone they feel may be in need of connection. 

“Not only does The Social Connection give people an outlet, but it is also an opportunity for people to help others who are struggling to connect,” Stomping Ground said. 

The group was inspired by Andrea Baum, Stomping Ground’s Co-Founder and Improv for Life Program Director, after seeing so many people isolated and needing to connect. The sessions are a combination of improv games, designed to be played online, and social activities that generate meaningful connection, mental wellness, and gratitude. 

“Research shows us that humans are social animals who need to socialize and connect with one another to thrive—and sometimes even to survive. During this time of crisis and forced physical isolation, this group was created to foster our innate need to be social and help us connect, gain support and coping skills, and most importantly, release stress by laughing together,” said Baum.

Stomping Ground Comedy hopes to impact the community through its unconventional approach to improv and laughter through programs like The Social Connection. The theater hopes to establish its presence beyond just Dallas, producing universal laughter and joy, Stomping Ground said. 

For more information on The Social Connection, go here.

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