Columbus comedy club and bar The Funny Bone finally has some local competition thanks to the new comedy nights at Woodland Tavern.
“My goal is to find the best in comedy,” said 27-year-old Dylan Shelton, Woodland Tavern’s comedy-night producer. “It isn’t about a profit or the money.”
After a series of renovations, the bar was reopened and renamed Woodland Tavern this past year. Soon after, Dylan Shelton, a Columbus native who lives in New York, paired up with the tavern to create one of the most popular comedy nights in the Columbus area.
“I’ve tried working with other places, but they weren’t very supportive,” Shelton said. “But after the very first show, Woodland has been very supportive, asking me what they can do to make it even better.
Shelton has brought a series of big names from Saturday Night Live and Comedy Central to the stage.
Tonight and Tuesday, Todd Barry will become the most recent talent to take the spotlight.
“The people I am selecting are the best in the business,” Shelton said. “Todd Barry is just a machine.”
Barry has been a part of the comedy scene since the 1980s.
“I was always a fan of comedy,” Barry said. “But at some point, I got the urge to try it. So, I singed up for an open mic night in 1987 and haven't really stopped.
Barry said his goal is to make people laugh while creating new material.
“I usually just make a list of the jokes I'm going to do,” Barry said. “But I don't always follow it. I just need a little structure to work with, generally think of an idea then work it out onstage rather than trying to type it out. It comes out more conversational that way.
Barry has been on shows such as Late Show with David Letterman, Louie, and Flight of the Conchords.
“I like visiting new places and finding out that I have some fans there,” Barry said. “But going to airports 50 times a year isn't fun. But I have pretty nice job, so I shouldn't complain.
Barry said his best advice is just to write and go on stage as much as possible and be patient.
“We are seeing the best comedy in the world,” Shelton said. “It’s an opportunity to sit in a small, intimate room watching the future Daniel Toshs of the world. “
The show, Monday Funday, begins at 8 tonight and Tuesday night. Fees include a $12 cover change for ages 18 and older. The show features a new comedian each week.
“In general, it’s a great new bar with a great atmosphere,” said Luke Thompson, Woodland Tavern’s general manager.
