The popular comedy group, Blue Pencil Comedy, will now be able to supply laughs weekly thanks in part to a recent upturn in funding.
Blue Pencil self-funded all events last year, but because of its rapid assent to popularity, Ohio University’s Campus Involvement Center has decided to fund the troupe entirely this year.
The monetary support will allow the group time to focus on more creative pursuits. Since costs are determined after the show, a number could not be obtained on the exact amount of support.
More regular appearances also have been added at their three usual venues: Athens Open Mic at the Front Room, Comedy Night at Jackie O’s and another show hosted at Pyramids.
“Our goal this year was just to establish something that was regular and be almost like a staple for standup comedy and we are glad that we have the opportunity to do so,” Eudora Peterson, president of Blue Pencil Comedy, said.
The club has also been able to book more professional comedians and will start off with Keith McGill Sept. 14 and Spike Davis on Sept. 28, both at Jackie O’s.
Blue Pencil Comedy is also enlisting Athens Video Works to feature the open mic at the Front Room on their show AVW Presents. Episodes can be found on YouTube starting Sept. 17.
“We are so glad that people are receiving comedy so well. Its just so awesome when you have a show and people enjoy what you love to do,” Peterson said.
New performers are encouraged to join by providing two minutes of their material on the fourth floor of Baker University Center Saturday nights at 6:45. Blue Pencil Comedy general meetings are held every Monday and Wednesday in 229 Baker Hall from 6-8 p.m.
“Athens Open Mic is just another show and anybody can come, you don’t have to be a member to participate. If anyone around campus had any interest in doing comedy I’d tell them to just do it,” Daniel Ahrens, junior and founder of Athens Open Mic, said.
Hilarity ensues every Saturday in the Front Room in Baker University Center starting at 8 p.m. Twelve comedians have five minutes to preform their set. The laugher-filled festivities are free for all audience members.
“It’s a little different from listening to a band or a party but it doesn’t take up the whole night and its fun. College is all about figuring out who you are and finding your voice and Athens Open Mic can help you do just that,” said Max Cothrel, junior member of Blue Pencil Comedy.
lf328610@ohiou.edu
