Saturday, July 28, 2007

Just for Laughs Toronto: Craig Ferguson Gala

Tonight, Darcy and I went to Massey Hall to see one of the Just for Laughs galas hosted by Craig Ferguson, who you probably know either from The Late Late Show or from the Drew Carey Show back in the 90s. Funny thing is that I lived in Montreal for about 5 years, but I never went to the original Just for Laughs festival there. I think it's about time an offshoot started in Toronto since it doesn't make much sense to have an English comedy festival in an increasingly French city.

We got out of the subway at Dundas and walked south to Massey Hall. I had no idea that Yonge Street in that area was closed for the festival. There were tonnes of people walking around, enjoying free comedy shows at Yonge and Dundas Square, and being randomly harassed by Cirque du Soleil-like clowns.

We had the most fantastic seats. Right side balcony (RSB), row J, seats 67 and 68, which were directly on the middle aisle at the very back row of the balcony (note: this is NOT the 'Gallery'). When looking at the seat map, you might think these seats are too far back, but they aren't and you have a great view of the entire stage.

Craig Ferguson was fabulous. And I think he was kind of sauced up. In any case, it worked for him and he was really funny. There were 6 comedians on the bill, including Tom Papa, Dom Irrera, Derek Edwards, Greg Giraldo, Elvira Kurt, and Russell Peters who closed the show. I can't believe how popular Russell Peters has become. He's been performing in countries all around the world, including England, India, South Africa, and Australia and selling out wherever he goes. I guess that's the great thing about YouTube: anyone in the world can see you perform and become a fan. It was a great show. I'm glad Just for Laughs has come to town.

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