We usually don't just re-post entire press releases but this is a special exception. Comedy icon Tom Dreesen will be hosting TWO FREE special events @ the Chicago Laugh Factory as part of the Just For Laughs Festival. Dreesen, if you don't know, (and if you don't your not doing your homework) is part of the reason why some of you knuckleheads get paid... huh!? what?! Bet you thought paying a headlining comedian at a showcase was always some sort of national standard policy. NOPE. Not until the famous comedian strike at the comedy bar in 1979. Dreesen was a major part of that. He's also a comedy pioneer with more credits then you can dream of. Bottom line is the man deserves our respect and comedians who take this art from seriously should be lined up to watch him impart some pearls of wisdom. Both events are comedy themed and motivational. Saturday's is particularly geared to standup comedians and is highly recommended. Check out the press releases...FRIDAY JUNE 15TH AT 5PM
LAUGH FACTORY CHICAGO PRESENTS: SHOULD COMEDIANS PAY TO PERFORM?
WITH KEYNOTE SPEAKER LEGENDARY COMEDIAN TOM DREESEN
Come and hear what Tom Dreesen has to say about this trend that is sweeping the country. Dreesen
is featured in the book "I'm Dying Up Here" written by William Knoedlseder. The book chronicles the famous strike against the Comedy Store in Los Angeles in 1979 that led to comics being paid across the country and as far away as London. Prior to the strike they were paid NOTHING. Dreesen organized a band of unknown stand ups like David Letterman, Jay Leno, Gallagher, Elayne Boosler and many others and after 8 weeks won a victory that changed the course of comedy throughout the nation.
You won't want to miss this historical story and the discussion with the audience that follows. Comedian Tom Dreesen went on stage for the first time 40 years ago in Chicago Heights, Illinois. Since that time he has made over 500 appearances on national television as a stand-up comedian including 61 appearances on the Tonight Show. He is a favorite guest of David Letterman and has even hosted the show during David's absence. Dreesen has been a regular in all the main showrooms for years in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Reno and Las Vegas and for 14 years he toured the nation as the opening act for Frank Sinatra. Dreesen is in constant demand from Corporate America to serve as Master of Ceremonies, Comedian or Motivational Speaker at their annual events.
SATURDAY JUNE 16TH AT 5PM:
LAUGH FACTORY CHICAGO PRESENTS TOM DREESEN:
THE JOY OF STAND-UP COMEDY AND HOW TO GET THERE
Tom Dreesen will be bringing his motivational presentation for those in the field of Comedy as writers, producers, actors, stand-ups or anyone who just simply wants to enjoy their journey in life. Come and be entertained by Tom as he tells you about: "The Joy of Stand-Up Comedy and How to Get There”. This fun filled and inspirational hour is for aspiring as well as veteran comedians. It teaches them to enjoy the journey as much as the audience enjoys their performances. He answers all the questions they have but even more important to recognize this gift they have and to never give up their dream.
This fast paced and informative hour is beneficial to anyone in any endeavor and costs nothing because Tom believes in the healing power of laughter and especially the men and women who bring it to the stage. Comedian Tom Dreesen went on stage for the first time 40 years ago in Chicago Heights, Illinois. Since that time he has made over 500 appearances on national television as a stand-up comedian including 61 appearances on the Tonight Show.
He is a favorite guest of David Letterman and has even hosted the show during David's absence. Dreesen has been a regular in all the main showrooms for years in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Reno and Las Vegas and for 14 years he toured the nation as the opening act for Frank Sinatra. Dreesen is in constant demand from Corporate America to serve as Master of Ceremonies, Comedian or Motivational Speaker at their annual events.