Griffin Sciarra is hosting a comedy show at the Jackson County Community Theater Royal Off-The-Square on Saturday, Oct. 24. But this time it’s more than just stand-up comedy. Sciarra is presenting a “Late Night Show” that imitates the format of Johnny Carson and David Letterman.
There are two shows scheduled at the JCCT at 6:30 and 9:30 pm. The show is for adults only.
The 8-year stand-up veteran had the idea of marrying his interests in theater and stand up comedy after portraying Flap Horton in JCCT’s rendition of “Terms of Endearment” earlier this year.
“Everyone at the theater was intrigued by the idea and willing to collaborate,” Sciarra said.
One thing that was important to Sciarra when developing the show was honoring the structure of late night TV but departing from the typical comedy you might hear.
“I’m not very interested in topical humor. I don’t keep up with pop culture,” he said. “My hope is that the jokes I present in my monologue and the sketches we made are evergreen. I like making everybody laugh. Politics and pop culture can divide people. I much prefer a personal observational joke that brings people together.”
And the show has been a collaborative effort. Zach Thompson, director and actor for both JCCT and Actors Community Theater of Seymour, is playing piano and co-hosting the show.
Paul Keller has been a producer and jack of trades when it comes to getting things done. From promotional videos, to running sound and lights for the live show, to helping Sciarra record pre-interviews with his guests.
There are two interview guests on the show, one warm-up comedian, a pianist, pre-recorded funny commercials, and finally a mystery live band.
“I wanted to showcase the variety of people’s talents. So many people are doing their own thing and it’s nice to come together and collaborate.” Sciarra said.
Sciarra says his favorite part so far has been collaborating with Grant Sutton, a Seymour native and working filmmaker in Nashville, Tennessee.
“He’s done all the hard work in bringing these goofy ideas I had and turning them into real commercials for the show. His professionalism when it comes to turning an idea into finished work is unmatched.” Sciarra said.
Tickets are $15 and available at https://jcct.ludus.com/index.php
