By Kristin Long
Weekend, Etc. Editor
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| BOHDAN DAMIAN CAP/Daily Members of Detroit's "Totally Unrehearsed Theatre" bring their comedy routine to the Mainstreet Comedy Showcase every Wednesday night. |
At the Mainstreet Comedy Showcase, humor comes naturally through professional and amateur stand-up comedy and improvisational skits. The tactics of the venue aim to generate laughter and light-hearted attitudes in a relaxed environment.
For 12 years the Mainstreet Comedy Showcase located at 314 E. Liberty St. has been initiating good times through its comics, which range from the famously talented to the not-yet discovered. Renowned funny people like Norm MacDonald and Wayne Cotter have made appearances, as well as University students and local Ann Arbor residents.
Acts occur on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, with Wednesday focused on open-microphone and improvisational skits. The weekly improv spotlights comedians from the Totally Unrehearsed Theater, a Detroit touring group that received a special commendation last spring as the Best Local Comedians.
Aspiring comics find the atmosphere a comforting setting for the beginnings of a career. Rob English, an English major and LSA senior, found a great base in the establishment. Not only did he work as an usher through the year, but also utilized the open mic at a Wednesday performance.
"Not only is it a great place to see a show, but also to work. The crowds are a great support, which makes a huge difference," English said.
Six amateurs take the stage on Wednesdays, reserving their spot with a phone call on the day of the show. While some find some success in their brief moment in the spotlight, others find that their humor does not quite appeal to all.
The other evenings usually feature comedians known throughout the comic circuit. Aside from MacDonald, other television stars have also made appearances at the local theater. Mark Price, more commonly know as "Skippy" from "Family Ties" appeared last fall as well. While the line-up for next fall has yet to be confirmed, MacDonald is among those expected to return.
Headliners are preceded by opening acts, which mainly feature local comedians. Following their 30 minutes on stage, spotlight performers charm the audiences for an hour.
Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights such as these often require advance reservations for preferred seating and a definite place in the audience. Customers can obtain a ticket at the door for general admission, and a mere phone call will reserve a some space in the theater.
While many ventures to the theater are spontaneous, it is not necessary safe to assume tickets will still be available upon arrival. Greg Baker, an LSA communications senior and Mainstreet Comedy Showcase intern, confirmed that walk-ins are more likely on Wednesday amateur nights than on big-performer nights.
Wednesdays also offer special bargain nights as well. Coupons and discounts are available to encourage people to support young hopefuls. Shows usually begin at 8:30 p.m. Following the six amateurs, the Improv group performs for an hour.
Humor for the other nights does have a price. General admission to most shows falls in the $10-18 range, and begin at 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights also include a 10:30 performance with the same comedians as the prior show. More renowned comedians, like Norm MacDonald, cost $17.50, and student discounts are not usually applicable.
Extra cash is also necessary to cover drinks during the show. The only edibles include popcorn and peanuts.
As with any bar, ordering a drink requires one to be 21 years of age, and entrance into the club also has its limits. Mainstreet Comedy Showcase only admits those that are 18 and over to enjoy the humor of its performers.
The light-hearted atmosphere allows for an comfortable atmosphere from all perspectives. On his first time on stage, English noted, "Its close intimate setting allowed for a great balance of national talent as well as young comics to make their mark." For the audience, Mainstreet Comedy Showcase offers an opportunity to escape from daily stress and laugh with the current best and the future best.
09-03-97
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