—SHOW NOTES—

◘Wayne talks with two St. John's stand-up comedians who host comedy shows at pubs in the city. Many of the performers are there as "open mic" comedians, that is any member of the public who wants to give it a try for 5 minutes, though some of them have a lot of experience, and some are professionals. ◘

◘ Josh Menchions is a comedian, accessibility advocate, and leader in Newfoundland and Labrador's arts community. He's been doing stand-up since 2018 and just last year founded the website Standup Comedy NL, an initiative to organize and expand Newfoundland's comedy scene, making it easier for audiences to find shows and for comedians to connect with their community. He is the host of Last Minute Comedy, held at the Peter Easton Pub. ◘

◘ In addition to his work in comedy, Josh is committed to advancing accessibility. He founded Accessible NL in 2018 to support inclusive community spaces and foster partnerships with local businesses to improve accessibility. He also contributes to the Canadian Association of Stand-up, Sketch & Improv Comedians. His ability to connect through humour, advocacy, and community-building continues to inspire inclusive change across Newfoundland and beyond. ◘

◘ Ed Woodruff is the host and producer of Spirit of Comedy, at the Spirit pub, St. John's only open mic comedy show wheree you can sign up on the spot to perform a set. He has been performing stand-up comedy for over a year, and is an engaged member of the city's stand-up community. His humour tends towards jokes about confusion around sexual orientation, and equal confusion around a young man working in an industry dominated by older men. The best way to find him and hear his materials is to come out and see for yourself at one of the many open mics in and around St. John's. ◘