Kelly McDonald to Headline Cortland Rep Next Weekend

Kelly McDonald, a professional stand-up comedian and a graduate of SUNY Cortland (Class of '74) returns to his old stomping grounds for a hysterical night of comedy at Cortland Repertory Theatre Downtown, 24 Port Watson Street in downtown Cortland. This one-night-only event will be held on Saturday, September 24. Doors will open at 7:00; the show begins at 7:30.

McDonald is a performer who personifies "classy" humor. In a business filled with "shock comics" who rely on material of questionable taste, Kelly remains a refreshing exception. He proves it's possible to create humor without taking cheap shots for easy laughs. Hailing from Geneseo, NY (as his Dad says, "a sleepy little burg") he began working in his uncle's clothing store at the seriously young age of 10. Kelly is convinced this early introduction to the world of retail provided him with the people skills and confidence he'd eventually need to handle an audience of strangers. After high school and graduation from SUNY Cortland, he moved to Las Vegas where in America's entertainment and convention capital, he began his comedy career. Like many entertainers before him, Kelly worked a series of jobs waiting tables, and when his shift ended, he'd frequent rock clubs and country bars, places where musicians might allow him some stage time while they were on break. Ultimately, Comedy Club impresario Budd Friedman opened an "Improv" in Vegas and Kelly began getting regular showcase spots.

As his reputation grew, television beckoned. He moved to Los Angeles where he worked in more restaurants and performed in more showcases. But something new was added to the mix - improvisational comedy training at the renowned "Groundlings Theatre". The Groundlings are known for producing exceptional improvisational comedy actors. (Kathy Griffin, Phil Hartman and Jimmy Fallon are all alumni.) With this training, Kelly made three appearances on A&E's "Evening At The Improv" which led to a guest shot on "The Merv Griffin Show". Soon came a booking with Johnny Carson on "The Tonight Show" and thereafter, he began making appearances with Johnny's successor, Jay Leno. Currently enjoying regular exposure on Sirius Radio's "Laugh USA", Kelly performs for corporate, cruise and club audiences.

Tickets for this memorable evening of laughter are $20.00 in advance and $25 at the door. A beer/wine cash bar will be available. To reserve tickets or for more information, call the CRT Box Office at 800-427-6160 or visit www.cortlandrep.org.

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