This is a good sign: my first day of more regular comedy coverage coincides with the release of Bridgetown Comedy Festival’s schedule! The sudsy four day barrage this year runs from Thursday April 22nd through Sunday the 25th. Accordingly, the good folks at Bridgetown have launched a new website (one that is, thankfully, a million times better than the last). There you can peruse the growing list of comedians, venues (as in years past, Bridgetown centers around SE Hawthorne, from the Bagdad Theater up to the Tanker), buy tickets and more (save $10 on four-day passes if you buy before April 16th).
Already 75 comedians have been announced, and at least 50 more are coming. Some of the bigger names include Maria Bamford (Comedians of Comedy Tour, Sit Down, Shut up), Scott Adsit (30 Rock), Steve Agee (Sarah Silverman Program), Danny Pudi (Community), Tim Meadows (The Ladies Man), Matt Walsh (Upright Citizens Brigade), Tig Notaro (Comedy Central Presents), Brian McCann (Conan O’Brien) and more. The whole list is here.
The names may not immediately scream out, but you know these people. You know their faces. They fill our sitcoms, late-night shows and movies.
That said, I understand it’s not easy to wade into comedy. Unlike bands, where a name hint at a style or sensibility, or whose albums can be easily consumed at home (and crafted specifically for such delivery in the studio), the name of a comedian is no help, and a copy of a performance doesn’t come close to the feeling of being there.
Luckily, we’ve got time. And from now until Bridgetown begins on April 22nd, I’ll introduce you to a handful of the performers who’ll descend on our fine city, for this, the festival’s third straight year.
But first, maybe you can help me out with a “scientific” poll.
Which best describes YOUR relationship with standup comedy?
You need another selection here – one that combines how Harvey’s blows and also allows for enjoyment of comedy in other situations.
If you’re a Zip Car member, you can essetially go to this for free. Festival passes are $50, and for some reason Zip Car is giving $50 in driving credit to pass holders. So yeah, if you use zip car, buy a pass. It’ll be a wash and you’ll have a pass.
There should be an option for “I love awesome stand-up, but with very rare exceptions (e.g. going to a show for a comedian I love), going to a comedy club is usually an exercise in almost unsurpassed uncomfortableness and unfunnitude.
Crowds at comedy clubs generally blow is what I’m getting at.
ONLY I UNDERSTAND A) WHAT THINGS ARE FUNNY AND B) HOW MUCH OUTWARD ENJOYMENT OF THOSE THINGS IS APPROPRIATE AT ANY GIVEN TIME.
I love comedy, but have only been to a few shows. Rarely have I been disappointed. The one time I was disappointed was when I saw Mitch Hedberg about a month before he died. He was out of his mind on drugs, and at a certain point couldn’t remember his own jokes. He had to pull out a notebook and start reading old classics from it.
He did have one new gem though:
“I got some New Balance shoes, but they’re old, so I keep falling.”
Obviously much funnier with his delivery. RIP.
Maria Bamford was supposed to be at last years Bridgetown fest, but skipped out. From what I gathered, this is not altogether unusual for her. I hope she actually makes it this year. In any case, this event is well worth the price of admission. I’ve gone the past 2 years and it’s been a helluvalota fun.
Seriously, GO.
Portland needs a year-round scene like UCB (both in LA and NYC). There’s enough talent and despair here to fuel a decent comedy scene.
And I’m not talking about Harvey’s. That place is everything that is wrong with comedy.
No reason places like Someday Lounge and small theaters can’t hold innovative comedy night.