Steve Pfost

The Comedy Club, located in Webster, NY, has taken its rightful place in Rochester’s already thriving comedy scene. As Joe Tantalo, the director of operations at Rochester’s newest house of laughs, told Reporter “a town this size should not be without a comedy club.”

In describing the atmosphere and expectations of audience members, Tantalo laughed for a moment and stated, “You’re going to have a great time. We have excellent service, great food and drinks and, trust me, you’re definitely going to laugh your ass off.” The Comedy Club presents a great time at a decent price, giving great accommodations and cool vibes to both students and the returning comedy connoisseur.

The Comedy Club opened its doors following the collapse of the Comix Cafe, which, despite large audiences from Rochester to Buffalo, shut down in early June; Comix Cafe was simply unable to stay in business. The Comedy Club features a unique, small, and intimate atmosphere, similar to that of its predecessor, but has a character all its own.

Tantalo first pitched the idea of the Comedy Club to Brother Wease, a radio talk show host from Rochester’s own 95.1 FM, as well as to other members of 100.5 “The Drive” FM. After finding support and funding from both radio stations, Tantalo asked Laura Davis, the owner of the facility where the Comedy Club currently stands, if he could open a new business. Following her consent, Tantalo began hiring staff and redesigning the building’s layout.

Tantalo then hooked up with a bookie from New York City affiliated with theatrical producer Roger Paul Agency who helped to bring hot talent to the club, including some up-and-coming names such as Dianne Ford, Adam Hunter, Skippy, and others. “Before it was the same hum-drum comics coming to town,” Tantalo said, “Now we’ve got a lot of great talent coming to Rochester and have many special events for college students. They can just show their student ID and get $3.00 off their admission price. It’s that easy.”

The range of activities and services that the Comedy Club offers is immense. Every Wednesday, the club has Open Mic Night where any hopeful can take the stage. If they get enough laughs they can walk away with cash prizes and a chance to be guest interviewed on “the Wease show” as a local celebrity on 95.1 FM.

The Comedy Club is available for parties, banquets, and birthday parties. They even feature comedy classes. The classes range in difficulty and availability but cater towards the comedian’s ability to help with their standup act, including both instructions on writing and performance tips. All classes are offered on Tuesday evenings. The club is 18+ and its menu offers a mixture from tossed salads, flame-broiled burgers to sandwiches that will fit just about anyone’s taste. They have cold draft beer to anyone of age and feature their own special cocktail list with drinks names created from past and present comedians.

Check out the comedy club at www.thecomedyclub.us.