There are very few times it is good when no one takes you seriously. The fifth anniversary of the founding of Laff Co., Oxford’s professional improv comedy troupe, is one of those times. Members of the comedy troupe are pulling out all the stops for their biggest show of the year. Laff Co.’s director, Bruce Butler, is excited by the anniversary show as its proceeds from the show support the Southeastern Comedy Arts Alliance and it always draws special guests.

The anniversary has developed the name “Night of 1,000 Laughs” and has all the cast members smiling as Tupelo radio station Z98.5 and Coors beer are sponsoring the show. “We think this will give us the chance to attract a new audience,” commented Butler. The support of media and corporate sponsors is the result of hard work on the part of Laff Co. who partnered with the radio station earlier in the year to produce the stand-up comedy contest “Mouth of the South” that was very successful. “I think our work on the stand-up comedy contest showed the radio station that improv comedy can draw a crowd,” added Butler.

Z98.5 offered to promote the show after hearing that funds raised through the show would be used to support programs for the Southeastern Comedy Arts Alliance. The support of the radio station has inspired Laff Co to new levels of absurdity for the September 3, 2009 performance at The Powerhouse Community Arts Center. The troupe has invited back former members to perform including Karlous Miller, a featured stand-up comic in Atlanta who has also appeared on the television show “Hell Date.” In addition, the troupe will be inviting members from the audience to participate in skits onstage. “The best thing about improv is that you never know what will happen or who is going to do what,” shared Laff Co member Mallarie Pitcher.

Tickets for “Night of 1,000 Laughs” are on sale at the Powerhouse Community Arts Center. The performance is Thursday, September 3, 2009 at The Powerhouse with ticket prices $5 if purchased in advance or $7 at the door. To reserve tickets or for more information about the show, call The Powerhouse at 662-236-6429.

Bruce Butler is a nut. He puts on a good show with Laff Co.

Tickets for “Night of 1,000 Laughs” are on sale at the Powerhouse Community Arts Center. The performance is Thursday, September 3, 2009 at The Powerhouse with ticket prices $5 if purchased in advance or $7 at the door. To reserve tickets or for more information about the show, call The Powerhouse at 662-236-6429, Superbowl tickets.