Cultivating Comedy: Kenneth McLaurin's Impact on Ithaca's Comedy Scene
In this episode of Good News York, the host welcomes comedian and promoter Kenneth McLaurin, a pivotal figure in Ithaca, NY's comedy scene. Kenneth discusses his journey from Raleigh to Ithaca, where he established a vibrant comedy community through initiatives like Comedy on the Commons, now rebranded as Comedy HOF. He talks about the challenges and triumphs of building a comedy scene in a transient city, the Ithaca Laughs Festival, and numerous open mics and shows that provide platforms for local and visiting comedians. Kenneth also shares a memorable bombing story that emphasizes the highs and lows of a stand-up career. The episode highlights Kenneth's dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive comedic environment in Ithaca.
00:00 Introduction to Good News York
00:02 Meet Kenneth McLaurin: Ithaca's Comedy Scene
00:59 The Birth of Comedy on the Commons
03:09 Rebranding to Comedy HOF
05:11 Ithaca Laughs Festival and Open Mics
06:58 Challenges and Successes in Ithaca's Comedy Scene
12:27 Kenneth's Comedy Journey: From Raleigh to Ithaca
16:22 Bombing Stories and Comedy Insights
22:57 Upcoming Shows and Final Thoughts
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
CrimeLess: Hillbilly Heist
It’s 1996 in rural North Carolina, and an oddball crew makes history when they pull off America’s third largest cash heist. But it’s all downhill from there. Join host Johnny Knoxville as he unspools a wild and woolly tale about a group of regular ‘ol folks who risked it all for a chance at a better life. CrimeLess: Hillbilly Heist answers the question: what would you do with 17.3 million dollars? The answer includes diamond rings, mansions, velvet Elvis paintings, plus a run for the border, murder-for-hire-plots, and FBI busts.