Staff
Ryan McMahon will perform three free nights of comedy at From the Grind Up here next week.
The Fort Frances native will take the stage nightly at 7:30 p.m. from Monday to Wednesday.
From the Grind Up owner Ben Morelli said McMahon is preparing a brand new hour of material for the upcoming comedy festival season, a stand-up comedy album, and his 2015 North American tour.
And wants to try it out in front of a hometown audience.
“He wants as many people to come out as possible and bounce some jokes off them, and hopefully some people will ask him some questions,” Morelli added.
He said McMahon will stick around after each show for a Q&A and also to talk about his craft.
Morelli said he’s hosted a few open mic nights, but this is the first he’s had a professional comedian at From the Grind Up.
“I’m very excited,” Morelli enthused. “I’ve seen him a number of times and we’ve talked on a number of occasions.
“We’re like-minded people.”
Morelli added McMahon has supported him from the beginning, and it’s good to return the favour by hosting the comedian next week.
Everyone is welcome to attend the free shows.
Meanwhile, classic rock band “Uncommon Joe” will be performing tomorrow from 7-10 p.m. at From the Grind Up.
There will be a $5 cover charge.
Morelli said the band, which hails from International Falls, is very good and looking to get its name out there.
Over time, Morelli has been booking more and more artists for evening performances.
“I don’t know if it’s entirely by design but I just keep my ear to the ground and take any opportunities as they come,” he remarked.
“I am hoping to be able to open up in the evening down the road, so it’s nice to be able to get my feet wet that way,” Morelli added.
From the Grind Up celebrated its second full year in business back on Feb. 14.
