July 2, 2007
Ready for lots of Laughs
The Guardian, Charlottetown PEI
by Christian Ledwell

Press release

"Island Standup Showcase" casts the spotlight on PEI's most original standup comedians, for an evening of guaranteed hilarity. Francois Weber, Patrick Ledwell, Richard Schroeter, and Taylor Carver have been gaining notice in comedy venues on PEI and across Atlantic Canada. This performance will bring their acts together on one stage, where each will present his own distinctive take on everyday life.

For opening night on Saturday July 7th , they will be joined by special guest Peter White. The  Halifax-based White was named one of the Top 5 new comics in Canada by CBC Radio's "So, You Think You're Funny?" in 2006, and is getting ready for the Just for Laughs Homegrown Competition in Montreal.

High-school teacher Francois Weber has been developing his anecdotal comedy over the last several years at YukYuk’s clubs in Ontario and the Maritimes, and has appeared with veteran comic Derek Edwards. Patrick Ledwell appeared at the Halifax Comedy Festival this spring, and has guested on Lorne Elliott’s “Madly Off in All Directions.” He uses striking imagery to bring out overlooked absurdities in the everyday.

Graphic designer Richard Schroeter draws material from the adjustment of becoming a parent to two young girls. The youngest of the group, Taylor Carver gives a fresh perspective on topics ranging from self-styled ‘cool dads’ to the pitfalls of seeking medical advice on the internet. 

On being introduced to stand-up, Schroeter explains, “I went and opened up about my life, pouring my heart out, telling my story and people would interrupt with laughter. Disconcerting at first, things kept rolling from there.”

The evening will serve a standup smorgasbord that has something for all audiences, with comedy as broad in subject matter as it is in appeal. Watch for different guest hosts and performers at each show through the summer.

 ‘Island Standup Comedy Showcase’ will run select Saturdays this summer (July 7 and 14, August 4 and 18), starting at 8 pm at the Arts Guild on Queen Street.