Entertainment at local bars often includes live music, trivia and special themed events. Now, Cheers 54, at 36616 State Road 54 in Zephyrhills, is adding comedy to the mix.
The pub will host a stand-up comedy night on March 20, the first in a new monthly series, called Next Up.
Other venues in the area aren’t putting regular comedy on the schedule, and that’s exactly why it appealed to owner Kim Beverlin.
(Courtesy of Jared Waters)
“We’ve just been trying to come up with some new ideas for Zephyrhills,” she said. “Something other places don’t do.”
If local residents want to see live comedy, they most likely have to drive to Tampa, Beverlin explained. The comedy night allows the pub’s regulars to enjoy something out of the ordinary, and Beverlin hopes, attract some new business, too.
The show will include sets from four different performers selected by Frankie Lane, a Zephyrhills resident whose entertainment company creates events for Cheers 54.
“Comedy’s been kind of one of the things we always wanted to do,” Lane said.
It took a little work to put the lineup together, which includes comedians Rio Paris, Amanda Jordan, Jared Waters and Antonio Hamilton.
Lane went to see each of them perform before asking them on the show. He wanted to get a feel for how they entertain, and he believes that’s not possible by just reading their credits or watching video.
Each comedian brings something different to the table, so there will be varying styles on display that night.
“I love new, up-and-coming talent, and I figured, what better way to get those guys a platform and get us a great show?” Lane said.
Because Cheers 54 is a venue for adults, the comedy will be adult-oriented as well. And, the performers are looking forward to showing off their wit on a new stage, even if it doesn’t normally have stand-up shows.
“What comedy brings over all other entertainment is joy, the ability for an audience member to take a break from the normal lives and laugh at someone else’s view on the world,” said Jared Waters, one of the performers on the bill.
Waters has been doing comedy for around four years, and performs regularly at local comedy clubs such as Side Splitters in Tampa. He’s also performed at comedy theaters and festivals in North Carolina.
Cheers 54 is able to seat nearly 200 people, so they’re prepared to accommodate a large turnout. And, they’re determined to make the comedy show a regular part of the schedule. The second show is already scheduled for April 17, with a new lineup to be determined.
Initial response has been strong, Beverlin said, noting people are looking forward to comedy night.
She’s expecting strong attendance for their first show.
“I have had very positive feedback. I think we’re going to be packed that night,” Beverlin said. “It sounds like people are interested in having something different in Zephyrhills.”
The show costs $5 and begins at 8:30 p.m. A disc jockey will play music after the comedy sets.
For more information or to reserve tickets, call Cheers 54 at (813) 788-3840.
Piblished March 18, 201u
