By Melissa Smalley
It’s often said that laughter is good for the soul – and in the case of an event set to hit 100 Mile House later this month, it is also good for the community.
A comedy night fundraiser, hosted by the Canadian Mental Health Association South Cariboo Branch (CMHA-SC) is set to take place at the 100 Mile Community Hall on Oct. 22, and according to organizers, the evening will feature plenty of laughs for a good cause.
“We thought a comedy night would be a perfect symmetry between raising awareness for mental health and funds for our local programs,” says organizer Allie Blades.
“It’s a great chance to be with the community and laugh a little.”
The event – for those 19 and older – gets underway at 6 p.m. with a cocktail hour, followed by comedians Kyle Bottom, Sophie Buddle and Dan Quinn.
Quinn, who has been doing stand-up comedy for more than 20 years and has been featured at Montreal’s Just for Laughs festival, is thrilled to be returning to 100 Mile House, where he performed three years ago at an event organized by the Hun City Hunnies.
Having travelled the world headlining top comedy clubs around the globe, Quinn says humour is one thing audiences from all walks of life can relate to, making a performance in a small town no different from one in the big city.
“People aren’t really that much different, when you get 200 people in a room, they’re just 200 people.”
Quinn, who describes himself as a natural-born storyteller, says he strives to perform material that is relatable, whether it’s about his own life and relationships, or about current events around the world.
The other comedians joining him on stage for the comedy night, who he describes as “people who are going to do big things,” are sure to make for a funny night for those who attend.
“It’s gonna be a night of good laughs.”
The fundraiser has attracted the support of several local organizations and businesses, Blades says, adding One in Five Apparel will be selling merchandise, and The Sugar Shack will have its mobile truck parked outside the hall.
“All their proceeds from the evening will be going back to the South Cariboo (CMHA) branch. It’s been an extremely grassroots, local effort. Everyone has just been super helpful jumping on board.”
There will be 50-50 tickets on sale to help raise additional funds.
Tickets for the Comedy Night are $25 and will be sold up until the day of the event. They can be purchased at Didi’s Boutique and JJ’s Home Inspirations.
