All posts by Istvan Dugalin

Apart from his (pathological?) obsession with airplane disasters, Istvan is a filmmaker and film enthusiast, but began his creative adventures in theatre. Starting out as an actor, he soon discovered a preference for life behind-the-scenes. He has experience in lighting design, stage management and production management, but his passion is writing and directing. With several short films and an indie feature under his belt, film has been his focus in recent years, but theatre has been calling him back. You see more of his critical writing at his film reflection blog: http://captiveviscera.wordpress.com/

Review: Comedy Brawl 2013 Round One (Empire Comedy Live)

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Some good laughs are waiting for Toronto at Empire Comedy Live’s Comedy Brawl 2013

I am wary of stand-up comedy, and I rarely seek it out, but I am very glad I caught some of Empire Comedy Live’s Comedy Brawl 2013, held at their new venue—Johnny Jackson.  The venue is intimate and, much to my relief, above ground!  I’m used to those dank and subterranean places where one usually sees stand-up. 

The menu at Johnny Jackson is standard pub fare and the service is friendly and efficient.  The air conditioner took a while to work its magic.  You may find yourself feeling a little moist.  Personally, I enjoy being in the midst of sweaty, beer-swilling hilarity.  But seriously, it does get quite warm.  Continue reading Review: Comedy Brawl 2013 Round One (Empire Comedy Live) →