ABOUT US

"Why doesn't Cleveland have a comedy festival?"

The question was asked by John Wellington to a group of fellow local comedians after a show at the Bassa Vita Lounge in Lakewood back in 2006.  None of the comedians present had an answer but all in attendance immediately agreed it was something Cleveland needed and something that the comedy community in Cleveland deserved.  Several pointed out that many other cities with lesser comedic resumes than Cleveland had their own festivals.  So it was decided then and there to make a comedy festival a reality and a small group of local comedians took it upon themselves to make it happen.

And here we are.  It has taken some time to plan and organize but we’re very excited that on November 7-9, 2008, the first-ever Cleveland Comedy Festival will take place at multiple venues over the course of three laugh-filled days.

Our vision has always been to create an event that is uniquely Cleveland – a celebration of comedy and local talent that continues the legacy of funny that includes Bob Hope, Ernie Anderson, Tim Conway Arsenio Hall, Steve Harvey, Drew Carey and many, many others.  Cleveland has always been a funny place that seems to foster more than its fair share of hilarious people.

And it’s still true today!  The wealth of comedic talent in Cleveland has never been stronger, and that’s what our Festival is all about.

The four showcase shows at The Hermit Club will feature over 40 of the finest local stand-up comedians plying their craft today.  The sketch and improv show at The Powerhouse Pub will include the funniest and quick-witted improvisers and sketch groups anywhere in Northeast Ohio.  And the “Cleveland Laughs” television special taped at WVIZ/PBS ideastream at the end of the festival will highlight some of the best nationally headlining comedians from Cleveland working today.  And let's not forget the "Behind The Scenes" comedy fan forum at The Plain Dealer that will let comedy fans listen and interact with professionals from the comedy business.

It’s a packed weekend of laughs and fun and sure to be great time.  We hope that you’ll join us November 7-9 and help us celebrate comedy and celebrate Cleveland.  See the Shows and Events page for details on all the happenings and how to get tickets.

Thanks!

Joe Hannum, JD Sidley, John Wellington,
Cleveland Comedy Festival Co-Founders