ORANGE — Have you heard the one about the local businesspeople who organize a comedy fundraiser?
The Orange Merchants Group has arranged for a stand-up comedy show at the Boiler Bar & Grille on Sept. 30 to generate money to continue the tradition of holiday decorating in the downtown area. Administrator Tom Smith explained proceeds of “OMG! Laughs to Light Up Orange” will go toward the purchase and maintenance of replacements for the commercial-grade holiday lights that decorate Memorial and Riverfront parks. Tickets are $20.
“I personally am really looking forward to it,” Smith said. “We really have worked very hard at getting a fundraiser together.”
The Orange Merchants Group is using Funny 4 Funds (F4F), a Rhode Island company that provides three-person comedy shows to help raise money for groups and causes. It is unknown which comedians will work in Orange on Sept. 30, as F4F books shows based on a requested date, not on the availability of specific talent. Each show consists of a host, a featured act and a headliner.
This event was the idea of Fran and Mike Bates, who own Bates Crafters Gallery. Fran Bates explained she became familiar with F4F after attending a show for a friend’s husband who died. She then arranged a show to benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. She said each F4F she has attended has sold out.
“They’ve been extremely popular,” Fran Bates said. “Everybody’s laughing. They’re in business for a reason.”
She said she approached Boiler Bar & Grille, at 245 Tully Road, to host the event because she used to work with the owner’s sister.
The show, though consisting solely of clean comedy, is for ages 18 and older. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the event begins at 7. There will also be a cash bar, a 50/50 raffle, and live and silent auctions.
Tickets can be purchased and donations can be made at bit.ly/3ddVYnf. Tickets are also available at Bates Crafters Gallery at 80 New Athol Road and at Trail Head Outfitters & General Store at 1 South Main St. More information about Funny 4 Funds can be found at funny4funds.com.
Reach Domenic Poli at: dpoli@recorder.com or 413-772-0261, ext. 262.