Northumberland is a county known for its outdoorsy attractions during the summer months, but what if this could be a hotspot to make you laugh?
Local comedian Clifford Myers has asked this same question. Currently, Clifford’s pushing to nurture Cobourg’s comedy scene to make it a staple for tourists and residents alike.
In a Reddit post back in April, Clifford explained that his intent is to “normalize” comedy in Northumberland by supporting entry-level improv courses and open mic nights.
When Clifford began to host open mic nights in 2019, the concept proved unsustainable due to the climate’s current lack of interest, venue sizes and payable revenue to talent. The idea also fell short in part to the impending pandemic.
Most of the issues listed are current roadblocks for future improv classes and mic nights as well. Clifford explains that fees build up quickly.
Venues were hard to find for crowds larger than 30 people, and the lack of names in the area’s comedy community meant paying for gas for travelling talent.
This makes what little revenue they make go entirely into sustaining, not growing. He went on to say growing the community’s comedic presence at home is going to be his main role moving forward.
Clifford is no stranger to supporting communal growth through comedy, either. He currently operates the laughter-based team building workshop company, The Other Comedy Co. That offers various comedic learning opportunities for staff and families.
There’s currently numerous comedy festivals and stand-up shows planned in Northumberland, including Jokes & Goats at Haute Goat farm at the end of July, Canada’s first comedy show at a goat farm.
If any venues are interested in supporting Clifford’s initiatives, he urges you to visit The Other Comedy Company to start the conversation.
Written by: Noah Lorusso
