Category Archives: Comedy

Give Back Through Music at the World Famous Comedy Store

February 27, 2023 Dustin Brown Leave a comment

(HOLLYWOOD PRESS CORPS) SUNDAY, MARCH 26TH ~ The Hollywood Press Corps covered the Give Back Through Music event at the Comedy Store in Hollywood this last Sunday night. This was a cool event that benefits the homeless. Funny comics, amazingly talented musicians and a large group of people looking to laugh all came together in swanky West Hollywood. We had the entire Comedy Store to ourselves. This event will fund local charities in Los Angeles. Upward Bound House, which provides housing and help for the homeless, will recive funds from tonight’s show.

**Marc Reiser** (L) and **Fabrizio Grossi** (R) from **Give Back Through Music**. Photo by Ellen Zuckerman

The comics were top notch and we were all so lucky to be watching comedy AND live music at the Comedy Store. The host of the evening was Ben Gleib. This guy is funny. He does a combination of “aging LA hipster” jokes mixed with “old married guy” observations. He spent a lot of time doing “crowd work” which involved instulting the creator of the TV show “Deal or No Deal” who was sitting in the front row. Ben introduced all the comics and the bands. For comedy there was Kira Soltanovich, Brad Williams, Jessica Michelle Singleton and Chris Riggins.

MC **Ben Gleib**. Photo by **Ellen Zuckerman**

On the musicians side, there were so many famous people. There was Stephen Perkins, Derek Day, Alvino Bennet, Nalle Colt, Chris Wyse, Ed Roth, Alex Alessandroni, Garrett Holbrook, Scott Coogan, Eric Bradley, Carmine Rojas, Terry Ilous, Simone Sello, Fabrizio Grossi, Dennis Jones, Rob Mcdonald and Raymond Johnson.

**Jessica Michelle Singleton** at the Comedy Store. Photo by Ellen Zuckerman

Jessica Michelle Singleton came out and did a “sexy blonde girl on the Sunset Strip” routine. She got a lot of laughs and set the tone for the evening which was – Anything Goes. Chris Riggins, AKA the Door Guy at the Comedy Store, was very funny and brought the cool guy vibe. Brad Williams has the dwarf comedy locked up. Just off his stint in Vegas as the lead comic at Mad Apple ~ Cirque Du Soliel, Brad had everyone laughing.

**Kira Soltanovich** doing her Gentle Parenting is Bullshit routine. Photo by **Ellen Zuckerman** for the **Hollywood Press Corps**

All the comics are such pros and handled the crowd easily. It was a fun event because it was for a good cause and there was comedy and music. The music was amazing with each group taking three songs and throwing down their big numbers. Stephen Perkins looked really good sitting behind the drums. So many of us were connected to him via Zoom during the pandemic. It’s good to see him in person.

**Fabrizio Grossi** from **Soul Garage Experience** on bass and **Stephen Perkins** *from* **Jane’s Addiction** *on drums* at the World Famous **Comedy Store**. Photo by **Ellen Zuckerman**

Give Back Through Music is the non profit founded by Breck Philip, Fabrizio Grossi and Marc Reiser. Their mission is to produce exclusive music and comedy events that connects fans to charities in Los Angeles. The Hollywood Press Corps looks forward to covering more events produced by Give Back Through Music.

**Stephen Perkins** from **Jane’s Addiction**. Photo by **Ellen Zuckerman**

The **Dennis Jones Band**. **Rob McDonald** on bass and **Raymond Johnson** on drums. Photo by **Ellen Zuckerman** for the **Hollywood Press Corps 2023**

To donate to Give Back Through Music, click HERE

All photos by Ellen Zuckerman

**Ben Gleib** ~ photo by **Ellen Zuckerman**

**Chris Wyse** from **Owl**, Ozzy and Ace Freely. Photo by Ellen Zuckerman

**Brad Williams** slaying at the **Comedy Store**. Photo by **Ellen Zuckerman**

**Terry Ilou**s sings with **Carmine Rojas** on bass. Photo by **Ellen Zuckerman**

**Ed Roth** on keys. Photo by **Ellen Zuckerman**

**Chris Riggins** also known as the Door Guy at the Comedy Store had everybody laughing. Photo by **Ellen Zuckerman**

**Rob Mcdonald** (L) on bass, and **Raymond Johnson** (C) on drums and **Dennis Jones** (R) on guitar. Photo by **Ellen Zuckerman**

Dustin Brown

I am the Senior Editor at HollywoodPressCorps.com.

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Charity, Comedy, Music

Give Back Through Music Launches with an Event to Help Homeless Families in Los Angeles

February 7, 2023 Dustin Brown Leave a comment

(HOLLYWOOD PRESS CORPS) Los Angeles, CA, February 7th 2023 ~ Give Back Through Music is a new non profit setting out to empower music fans to embrace the art of giving. They are producing music events that provide fans with exclusive access to immersive experiences with the artists. Proceeds from these events will help to fund local charities in the Los Angeles area that focus on initiatives that advance human and animal welfare.

**Stephen Perkins** from **Jane’s Addiction**. *A new nonprofit is holding its first event at the Comedy Store in Hollywood, to benefit Upward Bound House*. Photo by Alex Kluft

The first event will benefit Upward Bound House, which provides aid and housing to homeless families in Los Angeles. The music and comedy show will feature five bands and several comedians, at the Comedy Store in Hollywood on February 19th.

Artists performing include Stephen Perkins (Jane’s Addiction, Porno for Pyros), Nalle Colt (Vintage Trouble), Chris Wyse (The Cult, Hollywood Vampires, Ozzy Osbourne, Ace Frehley), Carmine Rojas (David Bowie, Tina Turner, Rod Stewart) and many others. In connection with the event, the charity is auctioning musical gear and memorabilia donated by artists including Stephen Perkins, Steve Lukather and Steve Vai.

**Chris Wyse** from Owl, Ozzy and Ace Freely. Photo by Alex Kluft

It’s co-founders Breck Philip, Fabrizio Grossi and Marc Reiser have planned their nonprofit for three years, however were delayed because of the pandemic. “We’re excited to gather our friends and supporters to launch Give Back Through Music while raising money for an important group of people here in L.A.” says Grossi, president, a touring musician and producer himself, who will be performing at the event.

“This is the first of four events that Give Back Through Music is currently producing” says Philip, who is busy gathering initial sponsors interested in helping the new charity as it launches. “We’re fortunate to work with an expansive and diverse group of musicians who are eager to give back to the community”. Tickets to the event can be purchased at: https://www.showclix.com/event/home-february19th

Dustin Brown

I am the Senior Editor at HollywoodPressCorps.com.

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Celebrities, Comedy, Film, Scifi

The 11th Annual LA Comic Con

December 6, 2022 Dustin Brown Leave a comment

(HOLLYWOOD PRESS CORPS) LOS ANGELES ~ DECEMBER 6TH, 2022 – Los Angeles Comic Con, L.A.’s largest event for comics, gaming, sci-fi, and pop culture, wrapped up its largest event ever this past weekend, welcoming 126,600 guests, a huge list of celebrities, and 850 plus vendors and artists that were spread out over a million square feet of exhibition space in and around the West and South Halls of the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Elijah Wood and Sean Austin at Comic Con 2022. All photos by Alex Kluft.

Jimmy Neutron 20th Anniversary & Live Script Reading

It’s rare that you’ll find an 80s or 90s kid who has never seen Jimmy Neutron. Jimmy’s determined nature made him an interesting character for teens and children alike. The cast of Jimmy Neutron, including Candi Milo, Carolyn Lawrence, Debi Derryberry, Jeff Garcia, Mark DeCarlo, and Megan Cavanagh, took the Main Stage on Saturday, Dec. 3rd to perform a live script reading in celebration of the show’s 20th anniversary. All photos by Alex Kluft.

Continue reading The 11th Annual LA Comic Con →

Dustin Brown

I am the Senior Editor at HollywoodPressCorps.com.

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Comedy, Healing, Self Improvement

Check Out Shannon Bobo’s Transformative Show to Get You Through This Challenging Time

April 17, 2020 Dustin Brown Leave a comment

Multi-hyphenate artist Shannon Bobo’s show is the answer to the overload of information that supports all the fear and uncertainty surrounding Covid-19. This tireless artist has created this show as a result of the many “challenges” we have been overwhelming each other with during these trying times. She does a daily “Heart Math” Meditation and the lead meditation guides, Erin & Jeff, asked us to create our own 30 day challenge. Shannon is a certified Reiki Healer and Energy Alchemist. She uses her extensive knowledge of crystal healing energy to help soothe everyone’s anxiety and nerves. She also does card readings to engage and entertain her audience. This is also a very interactive show. She has guests lined up to speak on different topics on helping our viewers get through these challenging times. She also offers advice on how she has been able to stay calm during these times.

Shannon is a woman of many talents. She’s a TV show host, a working commercial actor, and comic here in Hollywood and has had opportunities to work as a host in the past. But never on her own accord. Thanks to the many different platforms, she has been able to create a daily talk show that helps many people.

Here is a link to her shows. (Subscribe to her channel for future shows):

https://www.youtube.com/user/ShannonBoboActor

Years ago, a well-meaning mentor told Shannon that she needed to choose a focus. “I did not do that and I’m glad I didn’t! I love all of the many hats that I wear. My intention on this planet is to support everyone in finding their voice and all the responsibilities that comes with having your voice,” says Shannon.

“All that I do encompasses in supporting that mission. I trust I can support you in your intentions in many way,” she added.

Here ‘s some more info about her below:

Shannon’s background is in TV, radio, live performance shows, live video streaming, and casting, and producing. This multi talented creative currently work both behind the scenes as a casting professional and in front of the camera as an actor, host, and stand-up comic. She has helped cast countless on-camera commercial ads, film, and television and is an active member of SAG/AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild/American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. (American union representing professional performers). She is also a currently committee member for the SAG/AFTRA Sexual Harrassment Committee. If that wasn’t enough, she is currently writing a book called “A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To forgiveness” and is an advocate for finding peace through Forgiveness, Self- love, and Healing. She is also a certified reiki healer and energy alchemist. Part of her healing work and forgiveness is through laughter and why she performs stand-up comedy. She is also a life long ambassador for PAVE Promoting Awareness Victim Empowerment, an organization that provides support and advocacy for people who are survivors of sexual trauma. Her focus and purpose is to help as many people as possible find their voice and creating a space for everyone to feel heard. Her ultimate goal is to help and entertain as many people as possible.

“I am so excited for you to come back and visit my website to find out how I can help you with your projects. And how I can contribute,” says Shannon, who currently resides in Los Angeles, CA, but can travel easily.

More info about Shannon:

www.shannonbobo.com

Dustin Brown

I am the Senior Editor at HollywoodPressCorps.com.

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Celebrities, Charity, Comedy, Food and Wine, Interviews, Red Carpet, Special Events, TV, Web Series

Legacy Charitable Foundation

December 9, 2019 Donny Bennartz Leave a comment

The “Legacy Charitable Foundation” held its fifth annual Holiday Masquerade Ball on December 8 at The Majestic Downtown in Los Angeles.

In an effort to support “Echoes of Hope” which serves communities by helping children, youth and young adults in need by eliminating barriers and assisting them to reach their full potential, the Holiday Ball encouraged giving with this event which included, open bar, full sushi bar and catered dinner. Aside from creating awareness, the organization raises funds to bridge the gap between those in need and support the programs that help them strive.

The Legacy Charitable Foundation assists our community by promoting social welfare and supporting other non profit organizations with an emphasis on improving health research such as Alzheimer’s and cancer, homeless assistance organizations, disabled or sick youth, foster youth, education, financial literacy, low income family residences and overall well being of all people that are in need of hope. The evening climaxed with an electrifying performance by CeCe Peniston, (Best known for her hit single “Finally”) and other number one hits.

Attendees walking the red carpet included, CeCe Peniston who also performed later in the evening, actress Paloma Movales, actress Chanel Minnifield, Dr. Lisa Masterson of “The Doctors”, comedian Patrick Neal, Pol Atteu and Patrick Simpson of “Gown and Out in Beverly Hills” with their lovable dog “Snow White”, Celeste Thorson of “The Have and Have Nots”, Zack Levy of Legacy Foundation, Abraham Mehrian Chairman of The Legacy Foundation, Giovanna Healy Founder of “Sisters of Strength”, Jennifer Brown Legacy President, Bill Mena board member of Legacy Foundation, Gonzalo Cruz Schiavone board member and Sylvia Valdiva of The Legacy Foundation. Holiday season is a time for reflection and giving and giving they did.

Donny Bennartz

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Action, Comedy

Shoot From the Hip Action Comedy Series Is in Pre-Production

December 4, 2019 Dustin Brown Leave a comment

The much anticipated Shoot From the Hip action comedy series is in pre-production starring rising star Jimmy Drain (The Initiation), Lauren Mayhew (Dexter), Carl Ciarfalio (Casino), Monique Candelaria (Breaking Bad) and legendary action star Mel Novak (Bruce Lee’s Game of Death). This series is produced by Thunderknight Entertainment.

Rookie police officer Marvin Smith (Drain) must learn the ropes of the gritty, big city underground from his new partner Detective “Juice” Jones (Daniel Sharner) and take down cartel mob boss Mug Luster and his boss, the formidable Mr. Felix (Novak). In their crusade however, they find many other challenges on their horizon, especially the emergence of Smith’s alter ego, the mysterious vigilante called “The Phantom”!

IMDB page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11272882/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0

Dustin Brown

I am the Senior Editor at HollywoodPressCorps.com.

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Comedy

Award-winning filmmaker Dustin Ferguson Announces New Television Series Pilot for L.A. LIFERS

June 28, 2018 Dustin Brown Leave a comment

Award-winning filmmaker Dustin Ferguson announces cast and details regarding his upcoming and much anticipated television pilot for “L.A. Lifers”, a throw-back to the “situation comedy” sitcoms of the 90s.

“I’m 90s TV Junkie”, says Ferguson. “Shows like ‘Married with Children’, ‘Martin’ and ‘Living Single’ I still hold dear to my heart today. Even the classic Nickelodeon programs like ‘Clarissa Explains It All’, ‘My Brother and Me’ and ‘The Adventures of Pete and Pete’ all served as inspiration, and many gags in the show are based on my experiences after moving from the Midwest to Los Angeles to pursue my own film career.”

Filmmaker Dustin Ferguson and actress Dawna Lee Heising

The series will feature a “laugh track” and follow four roommates: a Stunt Car Driver, a Soap Opera Star, a rising Adult Film Actress and a YouTube Sensation as they fight their way to the top (while also struggling to pay the bills) in the suburbs of Los Angeles.

The show was written by Mike Reeb (“Horndog’s Beach Party”, “Nemesis 5”) and stars Carrie Anne Bernans (“Black Panther”), David Thomas Newman (“Troma’s Mulligan’s Monsters”), Neveen Woods (“Horndog’s Beach Party”), Ryan Rasberry (“Ant-man and The Wasp”) and noted actress Dawna Lee Heising (“Samurai Cop 2”, “Nemesis 5”).

Production wraps in late July and the finished pilot will be presented to both Fox and Netflix. For more information, please visit:
https://www.facebook.com/SoCalCinemaStudios/

Dustin Brown

I am the Senior Editor at HollywoodPressCorps.com.

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Comedy, Red Carpet

KARA WITH A K HOSTS BUSTED BARBIE COMEDY SHOW AT LUCKY STRIKE LIVE HOLLYWOOD

July 19, 2016 Dustin Brown Leave a comment

HOLLYWOOD, CA – (JULY 19TH, 2016) Comedian Kara with a K brought together some of her favorite L.A. Funny Ladies to the legendary Lucky Strike Live in Hollywood. The Busted Barbie show was a Hottest Mess Comedy Event that featured the hilarious Kara Kimbrough, also known as Kara with a K, the extremely funny Kela Crawford, the edgy Tracie Walker, sassy Shawn Peolfsky, and the Emcee for the night was the always happy George Blake. The performers walked the red capet and posed for photographers before starting the night of laughs. Guests dressed up as their own homemade Busted Barbie and Busted Ken Dolls and walked the Red Carpet. There were cupcakes for everybody and an awesome mix from D.J. SugaShay. Some of the guests dressed as, Diva Barbie, Grandma Barbie, Walk of Shame Barbie, and Texas Train Wreck Barbie. The evening wasn’t just about the girls. Many guys dressed up as their Favorite “Busted Ken’s.

Comedian Kara with a K laughs it up with the Day After Barbies. Photo courtesy Tony Sulser for the Hollywood Press Corps

If a comedy show and a costume party had a baby and loved Cyndi Lauper and Beyonce then this show would be it! This comedy show celebrated the Busted Barbie in all of us. These are the Barbies that didn’t make the cut in Hollywood.
The show asked some of the deeper questions like when Mia Pinchoff asked, “How long is too long to own a thong?”

D.J. Suga Shay - Spinning those Hot Girly Beats — D.J. Suga Shay – Spinning those Hot Girly Beats. Photo courtesy Tony Sulser 2016

The thing that stood out from these performances was the high level of professionalism. These comics are all at the top of their game. The July 19th show at Lucky Strike Live in Hollywood was a great night of comedy.

Kara with a K dropping it like it's hot in a full blown split! — Kara with a K dropping it like it’s hot in a full blown splits! Photo courtesy Tony Sulser

It’s no mistake that the comedy was so funny. These ladies come from the ranks of top notch television projects like Comics Unleashed, TLC, MTV, VH1’s “Walk of Shame,” Funny or Die, and the 2Dumb2Tame podcast.

Tracie Walker and Mia Pinchoff laugh it up with Kara with a "K"'s Texas Train Wreck Barbie Getup #3 — Tracie Walker and Mia Pinchoff laugh it up with Kara with a K’s Texas Train Wreck Barbie Getup. Photo courtesy Tony Sulser for the Hollywood Press Corps

Kaela Crawford shared her favorite dating app – “Uber, I mean they already have a job and a car”.

Tracie Walker’s Hair may not be real but her comedy was on point. “Fool, you better be glad this hair isn’t real, cause if it was I wouldn’t be talking to you”.

Guys came out too to support dresses as Busted Ken Dolls. Photo courtesy Tony Sulser

Shawn Pelofsky introduced herself as the “Power Bottom Barbie”. People were laughing hard when she acted out the Season Finale of Game of Thrones.

Mia Pinchoff Asks, "How long is too long to own a thong?" — Mia Pinchoff Asks, “How long is too long to own a thong?” Photo courtesy Tony Sulser

Headlining the show, Kara with a “K”‘ proved that she “Suffers from High Self-Esteem”. Kara got the crowd roaring with a full on award show, pop-star dance parody to Beyonce. The end of her hilarious act saw her attempt the “Dirty Dancing” leap into the arms of not one, but two men who struggled to hold her. They all ended up collapsing on the stage in a pile. No one got hurt but some guests may have bruise their ribs from all the laughter that ensued.

Kaela Crawford shares her favorite dating app "Uber, I mean they already have a job and car". — Kaela Crawford shares her favorite dating app “Uber, I mean they already have a job and a car”. Photo by Tony Sulser

It was such a great night of comedy at the Hollywood and Highland center. Watch for these funny ladies at future comedy shows.
Look out for the next Hottest Mess Comedy Event. Check future dates at;
rebelsofcomedy.com