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Read the press release here.

Local Comics Bring Comedy Shows to Sunnyside

 Oni Francis is one of several stand-up comedians to perform Tuesday night in Sunnyside.
Oni Francis is one of several stand-up comedians to perform Tuesday night in Sunnyside.
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Oniyide Francis

SUNNYSIDE — A pair of local comics is looking to bring some laughs to Sunnyside.

Comedians Lindsay Goldwert and Colin Samuel are producing stand-up shows in the neighborhood about three times a month, saying they want to bring the same quality comedy that's available in other parts of the city to Sunnyside.

"We both live in the neighborhood and we both really want to bring more entertainment options to the neighborhood," said Goldwert.

The shows will feature up-and-coming comics who have been vetted for their humor skills.

"We want people to feel like they're getting what they can get in Manhattan, but in Sunnyside," she said.

The shows will take place about twice a month at The Dog and Duck pub at 45-20 Skillman Ave., and once a month in the downstairs space in Marlene Tavern, at 41-11 49th St.

Samuel said he started hosting shows at The Dog and Duck this past summer, tired of having to commute to comedy clubs in Manhattan or Brooklyn to perform. He said he aims to put on shows that appeal to neighborhood residents, not just fellow comics.

"I want to actually have a show that feels like it belongs to the people of Sunnyside," he said. "We try really hard to keep the comedy relevant."

Each show will be free unless otherwise noted, and will feature a roster of comics from across the city, including at least one from Queens each time, the organizers said.

"Another thing that's important to us is promoting local talent," said Goldwert.

She pointed to the growing community of comics in Western Queens, pointing to comedy clubs like The Laughing Devil and The Creek and The Cave, and new Astoria venue Q.E.D.

Each comedy show will also feature giveaways, with prizes from local businesses — a way to promote Sunnyside's bars and shops.

"We want everyone to learn more about the neighborhood while they're there," Goldwert said.

The next show will be Tuesday, Nov. 25 at Marlene Tavern at 8:30 p.m. Another show is scheduled for Dec. 16, time and place still to be decided. Future events will be posted on Facebook.