Laughter is a physical reaction in humans and some other species, consisting typically of rhythmical, often audible contractions of the diaphragm in response to stimuli.

Animals that demonstrate laughter vocalizations in response to stimuli such as tickling are chimpanzees, gorillas, bonobos, orangutans, rats and dogs. These species also demonstrate the same benefits of laughter that humans do such as decreased stress level.

Laughter is used as a signal for being part of a group. Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies. Laughter triggers the release of endorphins which promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain. The study of laughter and its psychological and physiological effects on the human body is called gelotology.

Laughter can be classified according to:

intensity: the chuckle, the titter, the giggle, the chortle, the cackle, the belly laugh, the sputtering burst.

overtness: snicker, snigger, guffaw.

respiratory pattern involved: snort.

We expect to hear chuckles, giggles, snicker, belly laughs at more filling the Historic Paramount Theatre on Friday, May 5 when comedian C Willi Myles takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. Myles, “America’s Everyday Comedian,” has been combining his quick wit and a great sense of humor to deliver an audience-driving interactive performance that will “keep you laughing.”

An Alabama native, former student athlete and assistant coach at St. Cloud State University, C Willi Myles is well known throughout the country. Over his 18-year career he has shared the stage with legends like Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles and The Beach Boys and Toby Keith.

The Austin Area Commission for the Arts is able to present this national touring comedian by partnering with Riverland Community College.This partnership helped keep ticket prices affordable at $20 advance and $25 day of. Tickets are available now at austinareaarts.org or at the ArtWorks Center (Thursday to Friday 10 a.m. to  5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.).

Family art

The Austin ArtWorks Center announces that the Family Art Studio will be held on the second Saturday of the month at the Austin ArtWorks Center from 1 to 3 p.m.

The first Family Art Studio is on Saturday, May 13. Drop in as a family and get creative with materials provided. This is free and all ages are encouraged to attend and create together. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Family Art Studio is funded by a grant from the Austin Area Foundation.

Paramount Theatre

C. Willi Myles, “America’s Everyday Comedian,” May 5 at 7:30 p.m.

Ian Shapinsky: Sunshine and Music, May 14 at 2 p.m.

ArtWorks Center

$5 Kids Studio,  May 6 at 10:30 a.m.

Bob Ross Floral Oil Painting, May 6 at 1 p.m.

Date Night in the Clay Cavern, May 6 at 6 p.m.

Family Art Studio, May 13 at 1 to 3 p.m.

Find out more at www.austinareaarts.org