Funny You Should Ask: Comedy On The Shore

(Written by Sue Linfante) Sunshine, Boardwalk… Comedy? There's so much fun to be had at the Jersey Shore - even after prime tanning hours. And not only great comedy shows… great opportunities for YOU to pick up the microphone and get a laugh from the crowd! (no Dad jokes, please!) From traditional comedy clubs like Uncle Vinnie's in Point Pleasant to comedy events at the Middletown Arts Center to Festivals at local breweries and pubs, the Jersey Shore has big-time laughs at small-town prices. One great spot is the Count Basie Cinema in Red Bank. On the 3rd Thursday of every month, they turn off the projector and turn on the microphone for a $5 open mic. Hosted by Chris Covert, a headliner who hilariously combines music & comedy, comics of all levels take the stage for 5 minutes to try out their stuff. Have you been wanting to try standup? You won't find a more supportive room to try out your jokes for the first (or 500th) time! It's also a great spot for surprise guests, like Don Jamieson from That Metal Show. I’ve seen him many times as I await my turn to go up. (& yes, he's a tough act to follow!) Oh, btw... did I mention I'm also a standup comic? Pubs and breweries are popular comedy spots as well. Enjoy a wide selection of craft beers and interesting décor at WildAir Beerworks, a delightful brewery in Asbury Park, while laughing along to Comedy Shows from Ugly Pancake Productions – aka Angelo Gingerelli & “Joey B” Borzotta. With a combined 20+ years of standup experience, they produce shows and festivals throughout Monmouth and Ocean County, featuring a wide variety of local comics. Upcoming Wild Air shows are June 15th & July 13th. Another "don't miss” is Ugly Pancake’s "School's Out" comedy show on June 22nd at the Middletown Arts Center, which offers monthly comedy shows as well as a variety of fun events. Movie nights, musicals, Jazz & Accoustic nights are all happening this summer at the "MAC". The final Monday of each month offers "The Scoop", a rapid-fire comedy show of 2-minute sets and interviews with the hosting panel. Joe Castore is the mastermind behind this monthly laugh-fest at the ShowRoom Cinema in Asbury Park. If you prefer a more “relaxing” atmosphere – The Stoned Dojo in Toms River offers great Saturday night comedy twice monthly, with food, drinks and gifts. Comedy is alive & well at the Jersey Shore – come out and laugh with us! And if you’re brave enough… Show Us The Funny!