Stand-up comedians to take the stage in Hanover
The Sound Room Cafe is looking to expand its horizons and the Hanover entertainment scene.
The Hanover art gallery, performance and concert venue will be hosting its inaugural stand-up comedy night, beginning on Friday.
Robbie Soto, the venue’s booking agent, said The Sound Room is hoping to make it a weekly event in the Hanover community.
The stand-up night will feature four headlining stand-up acts, who will hit the stage around 8 p.m. However, the evening will begin at 7:30 p.m. with an open mic opportunity for anyone willing to test out their comedy chops with a 5- to 10-minute set.
“We’re looking to make this a bigger thing and have enough talent to fill weekly spots,” said Soto.
The headliners on Friday include Soto, Shannon Lanier, Kayla Ruth and Beau Bowden.
Bowden, a Hanover resident, started his stand-up act when he lived in Los Angeles in 2007. He said his act consists of observational humor and current events -- anything to remain as relatable as possible to his audience.
“I like to try new things, and no two audiences are alike,” said Bowden. “You never quite know what you’re walking into.”
Bowden, who directed a play in September at the Hanover Little Theatre, said he believes the town benefits from a productive art scene.
“Hanover is up-and-coming,” said Soto. “We want the entertainment scene to flourish.”
These plans include ideas for an improv night, in the vein of the TV show "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" to further explore the nascent Hanover comedy scene.
“We want people to come out, laugh a little bit and forget about their problems at home,” said Soto.
If you go
What: Stand-up comedy night
When: Open mic at 7:30 p.m., headliners at 8 p.m. on Friday
Where: The Sound Room Cafe, 106 Broadway, Hanover
Cost: $3 cover with coffee, tea, bottle water and sodas served for separate purchase inside. The Sound Room has a courtesy BYOB policy with a four-serving limit. Guests who choose to bring alcohol are subject to an additional $5 cover surcharge.