Laugh in the long weekend, and get your chuckles on at the Chemainus Legion as the Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society are thrilled to present world class comedian Arthur Simeon on Feb. 16 at 7 p.m., with special guest Darren Millar who has Chemainus roots.
Simeon will need no introduction to comedy connoisseurs who will recognize the Ugandan-born, Toronto-based stand-up comedian who moved to Canada 22 years ago as a fan favourite from CBC Radio’s The Debaters who has also been a regular panellist on CTV’s The Social. This Just For Laughs veteran has not only headlined their national tour but has also had his comedic stylings showcased on HBO, Kevin Hart’s LOL Network, CBC Television, and the CTV Comedy Channel.
"My favourite part of my job is getting to see so many new places and meeting diverse groups of people from different walks of life," said Simeon. "Bringing my comedy to Chemainus means that I'll have performed in the most important North Cowichan community which will give residents of Crofton something to think about, plus I get to see the murals."
Millar who is a stand-up comedian from the island is also excited to be performing in Chemainus where his parents call home. He has been making his mark on the island comedy scene since 2010, and has been making the masses laugh out loud at local events such as Rifflandia, Your Hood’s a Joke Roast Battle, and the Victoria Fringefest. He currently lives in Sidney, and produces a monthly comedy show at Sidney's Beacon Brewing through his comedic storytelling that tackles everything from family life to contemporary culture.
"I couldn't be happier to be asked to open for Arthur Simeon, as a developing stand-up when you are fortunate enough to have an opportunity to work with National headliners like Katie-Ellen and Arthur you jump at it," said Millar. "It's as much about performing on the show as getting to watch the pro's do their thing. It's also very cool to be doing the show at the Legion where my folks volunteer and my mom is a bingo regular. It doesn't get more local than that. My parents are excited for the show. They have had the opportunity to see me perform a few times, but never on their home turf, this will be a first."
"It's really exciting to be able to bring such a popular and beloved performer to our little town," said organizer Morgan Brayton. "It's fun to mention the show to people because so many folks are fans and freak out when they hear they can see him live after listening to him on the radio or seeing him on tv or the internet for years. I'm loving the mix of comics on this show. Darren talks about being a parent of teenagers in his act and I love the idea of his parents being in the audience, listening to Darren's jokes about parenting. I know they'll be so proud to share his act with their Chemainus friends and neighbours and, let's face it, no matter how old we get, every performer wants to make their parents proud. "
Simeon has been channelling his gift since his debut comedy album, Born and Raised which garnered critical acclaim for its engaging storytelling and self-deprecating humour. His sophomore album, The Blackest Panther has been praised as 'hilarious and cutting' and easily one of the strongest stand-up albums to date. This night out would make a perfect post Valentine's date for all who love to laugh as Simeon who is lover of slow jams and banana bread rises to the occasion as he delights audiences with his wit, unique perspective, and his undeniable charm, charisma, and stage presence. Exciting things that lie ahead for Simeon include hosting a gala at the upcoming Winnipeg Comedy Festival as well as preparing his next comedy special.
Exclaim! magazine calls Simeon: “One of the funniest minds and most sure-footed performers of our time."
After the society's first side-splitting sold out Chemainus Comedy Club show at the Coffee Shack on Jan. 23 which headlined acclaimed comedian Katie-Ellen Humphries who was recently named 'Best Comedian' in the Georgia Straight’s Best of Vancouver 2024 and a regular on CBC Radio’s The Debaters will be back to host this night of hilarity.
"She's a fantastic host and the audience is in great hands with her at the helm of the show," said Brayton. "She and Arthur are doing a show in Courtenay at the Sid Williams Theatre the night before so it was a no-brainer to take advantage of them being on the island for the long weekend and putting on this show."
Chemainus Comedy Club with Arthur Simeon and special guest Darren Millar will be bringing all the laughs to the Chemainus Legion located at 9775 Chemainus Rd., on Feb. 16. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., with the show getting underway at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25, and can be purchased through eventbrite.
"I hope the audience walks away feeling joy and content that they got their money's worth," said Simeon. "I also hope they leave feeling sexier than when they walked in. I don't know how I can make that happen but I'll have it figured out by showtime."
