Comedians Brooks Robinson and Rob Wilfong were having coffee one day and decided that there wasn’t really anything “festival-like” about most comedy festivals in the area.
“I wanted to do a festival that was true to the name with food vendors and merchandise and craft vendors. I wanted it to be festive with an outdoor stage. I thought of the music festivals I have put together or been a part of in the past and thought, that’s what I want to do,” Robinson said.
The event last was held at different venue in Bellefontaine, and while many tickets were sold, not many people showed up. Also, a few rainy days kept people away. Robinson said the event still went smoothly, with people taking cover under ponchos, tents and umbrellas.
“It was neat to see all the different comedians and despite the weather, it was a great time,” said comedian Holly Shock of West Milton.
A few things will be different this time. The new venue will allow indoor shows, music and alcohol.
“Attendees will be pleasantly surprised by the amount of craft and merchandise vendors that will be at this year’s event along with the food vendors and the Buckeye Vodka Barn,” Robinson said.
Eighty percent of the comedians who performed last year will be returning this year. There will be four headliners and 75 comedians at the festival. Comedians can send in submissions now on the festival’s website. There are fewer performers than last year.
The headliners are Charlie Walker, John Dick, Rob Wilfong and Wendy Furguson.
A complete lineup is available on the event website and is subject to change: www.livelaughscomedy.com
“We found out that we started the show too early in the day last year, and we made the proper adjustments this year,” Robinson said.
Robinson wants comedians to come together and network at the event, while having a good time and keeping the festival “the Woodstock of comedy.”
“I would like to see the festival just get bigger and better every year. My ultimate goal is to have it be a festival that features a dozen or more celebrity comedians in the three-day event, giving local and national comedians a chance to perform with them,” he said.
Everyone is welcome to come and camp out at the fairgrounds. All the details about ticket prices, camping info and submissions can be found on the event website at www.livelaughscomedy.com.
And don’t worry, there are hotels nearby if you are not a camper. Comedians can submit their clips on the website for $25 through Aug. 1. Every comedian who submits will receive one three-day pass and free camping even if they are not picked to perform.
About the Author