Many Canadians have grown up seeing Montreal’s Just for Laughs comedy festival on television. Now, thanks to the Grindstone Theatre, we have a comedy festival to call our own.
The Grindstone Comedy Festival takes place at three venues: The Grindstone Comedy Theatre, The Howl & Roar Outdoor Stage and the Campus St-Jean Auditorium. There are indoor and outdoor comedy shows, stand-up comedy workshops and musical improv. People can have a beer in the garden while DJs play between the shows. Late-night free parties and karaoke are also free to attend.
“It’s a fun and joyous environment. There’s going to be nonstop entertainment [and] people will come back over,” says Jocelyn Anselmo, programming manager of the Grindstone Theatre.
The festival features Canadian comedians and performers based in places like Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta and Toronto. Anselmo says that the festival is about the laughs, but it’s also a stage and career opportunity for comedians – a chance to find new artists.
“[It’s] about bringing the community together and sharing a laugh together,” Anselmo adds.
The Grindstone Comedy Festival is on until July 10. Tickets start at $18.
