There are several comedy shows throughout the year in downtown Phoenix, but it’s not every day that one revolves around Marvel Comics, the Legend of Zelda, Super Mario Bros. and all things nerdy for a good cause.
On Saturday, Lawn Gnome Publishing will host the second Comedy Avengers, taking over from its former venue, the Ice House Tavern.
Host and local comedian Matt Micheletti decided that Lawn Gnome was the perfect venue for an event like this because of the store’s location and clientele.
“I know that the culture of the people that shop there and the culture of Fifth Street would be very welcome to this idea,” Micheletti said. “Being in a very intimate space with people that share the same interests brings a very special vibe.”
Events at Lawn Gnome are kept intimate by encouraging the audience to participate, he said. Set in the middle of Roosevelt Row, Lawn Gnome serves as a welcoming location and perfect venue for the show.
“One thing that is different about all of the events that happen at Lawn Gnome is that we do programmed events,” Lawn Gnome owner Aaron Hopkins-Johnson said. “This one is all things nerdy.”
Hopkins-Johnson said he also sees this event as an opportunity for people who love all things nerdy to be among people with similar interests. At comic conventions, some people go all out on their costumes, and this event will be another chance to put them on display.
“They spend tons of time making these things — just to wear it for one day is a waste,” Hopkins-Johnson said. “This event is another chance for people to wear those awesome outfits.”
The show will begin at 7 p.m. with two acoustic musical acts by Andy Warpigs and The Multi Award Winning Male Pattern Radness, whose musical styles coincides with the theme and fun vibe of the night.
At 8 p.m. there will be 10 scheduled comedians with their own focus areas. These topics will vary from the Legend of Zelda to horror films, the Super Mario franchise, Marvel Comics, DC Comics and more.
Teddy Bearskovich, a local comedian who has performed at Phoenix Comicon for the past two years, will be among those on stage.
“I assume I was asked to perform due to my nerdy, weird style on stage,” he said. “Which is a combination of jokes and performance art.”
After the comedians, there will be a video game tournament on a split screen projection to end the night.
Comedy Avengers has a purpose that is more than just another night of comedy.
All proceeds from the event will go toward Stop Bullying AZ, an initiative formed by Nicole Stanton, Mayor Greg Stanton’s wife, to protect students from bullying by raising awareness and creating a citywide initiative to make a difference.
“Bullying is something that ‘nerds’ and ‘smart kids’ endured since I was in high school,” Hopkins-Johnson said. “Stop Bullying AZ’s mission falls in line with our event. We are just trying to create a space where anyone can feel free to be who they are.”
The show will be for all ages but may have adult language. Admission for the event is $3 but free for those who come dressed up in their costumes or T-shirt showing their favorite nerdy pleasure.
“It’s going to be a very original night of comedy,” Micheletti said. “This is going to be a show that really challenges performers to find something that they are passionate about and put it on display.”
Contact the reporter at ruby.ramirez96@gmail.com
