Comedy events to benefit Turning Point

Proceeds from two upcoming comedy events at McHenry County College will benefit Turning Point, a domestic violence agency and shelter in McHenry County, and Pride Call, a new local phone line to assist GLBT individuals.

On Wednesday, March 31, the Student Life and the Equality Club at MCC will host an Amateur Stand Up Comedy Contest with professional comedian Matt Drufke hosting at 7 p.m. in the MCC Conference Center. Professional comedian Lewis Rhine also will perform. Aspiring comedians should prepare a 5-minute set and call the MCC Student Life Office at (815) 455-8772 to register.

There is no fee to enter, but $5 admission will be charged at the door with all proceeds benefiting Turning Point. Winner of the March 31 contest will earn a slot at the college's Comedy Showcase fundraiser on April 15, also in the Conference Center.

According to contest organizers, the comedy contest winner will be decided by an audience vote, so participants are encouraged to bring friends and family to cheer them on.

More laughter will ensue from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, April 15 during the Comedy Showcase, featuring professional stand up comedians as well as the winner of the amateur stand up contest.

A $5 admission price will go to Pride Call. Matt Drufke will once again host, and comedians Lewis Rhine, Joe Motisi, Drew Michael and Cameron Esposito, as well as the winner of the amateur stand-up contest will perform.

All the featured comedians are critically acclaimed Chicago area favorites, performing regularly in the city and surrounding suburbs. Esposito produces comedy shows at the Lincoln Lodge in Chicago and has been touring around the country. For information, call (815) 455-8772.