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The National Comedy Center in Jamestown, NY is not just a museum – it’s a cultural institution based on the vision of comedy legend Lucille Ball. Created to celebrate comedy’s vital role in shaping our lives, the Center has become one of the most distinctive destinations in the country, drawing visitors from all 50 states and over 27 countries.
Now in its sixth full summer, the National Comedy Center continues to gain national recognition and acclaim – named one of the “World’s Greatest Places” by TIME magazine, a “Top 25 Family Weekend Getaway” by U.S. News & World Report, USA Today’s Best New Museum in the country,
and one of “100 Reasons to Love America” by People magazine. Most recently the Center was voted the Best Museum in Western New York by readers of The Buffalo News. With over 50 immersive exhibits, and collections and artifacts from legends such as George Carlin, Carl Reiner, Joan Rivers, Johnny Carson, Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, Richard Pryor, Lenny Bruce, Don Rickles, and more, it offers an experience that is both entertaining and deeply meaningful.
Just down the street, the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum – welcoming visitors since 1996 – honors the legacy of two pioneers who revolutionized television and comedy. The
museum celebrates the legendary TV series I Love Lucy, explores the groundbreaking history of Desilu Studios, and features rare artifacts and behind-the-scenes stories. These curated exhibits highlight the trailblazing influence that Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz had on generations of artists, entertainers, and fans.
Together, the National Comedy Center, the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, and the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival have made Jamestown a destination for comedy lovers from around the world.
The Lucille Ball Comedy Festival will be back this August for its 35th year. Presented and produced by the National Comedy Center, the festival is one of the most important comedy festivals in the nation, honoring the past, present, and future of comedy in Lucille Ball’s hometown.
The 2025 festival headliners include Jon Stewart and Bill Murray with his Blood Brothers band. These special performances join a tradition that has welcomed icons since 1991, including Jerry Seinfeld, Joan Rivers, Jim Gaffigan, Nate Bargatze, Lily Tomlin, Trevor Noah, Jay Leno, Taylor Tomlinson, Jeff Foxworthy, Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, The Smothers Brothers, and many more. The festival continues to welcome thousands of fans annually who travel to experience world-class standup, one-of-a-kind museum experiences, and exclusive opportunities to engage with comedy in ways no other festival offers.
Residents of the Western New York region and Western Pennsylvania – along with comedy fans from across the country – are encouraged to take full advantage of these exceptional cultural assets. Whether exploring the interactive exhibits, attending a live performance, or joining fellow fans during festival week, there is no better time to experience the vibrancy of Comedy’s Hometown.
Laughter is more than entertainment – it’s a shared experience that connects people of all ages and backgrounds. In a world that can often feel divided, comedy serves as a bridge, bringing people together across generations, perspectives, and beliefs. It reminds us of our common humanity and unites us through joy, surprise, and truth.
In Jamestown, comedy isn’t just celebrated – it’s embodied every day with pride, passion, and purpose. This is a place where visitors are invited to experience it, share in it, and become part of the story – one laugh at a time.
At the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, NY, visitors don’t just walk through exhibits –they laugh, create, and connect through a comedy experience that is uniquely their own. With groundbreaking personalization and interactive technology, the museum transforms every visit into a one-of-a-kind journey tailored to each guest’s sense of humor.
It all begins with a digital “Sense of Humor Profile.” Guests select their favorite comedians, TV shows, and movies, which are stored on a wearable LaughBand bracelet embedded with an RFID chip. As they explore, exhibits respond with content that matches their preferences – serving up custom-curated laughs that reflect each visitor’s comedic style, whether it’s classic slapstick, dry deadpan, edgy satire and more.
The museum doesn’t just present comedy – it invites guests to create it. Visitors can design digital cartoons and memes, perform stand-up routines in the Comedy Karaoke Lounge, re-create iconic facial expressions of legendary comics in our “Ham it Up” experience, or step into classic scenes using green screen technology. Their creations are saved and sent to them afterward as a personalized digital scrapbook of their visit.
The experience is smartly tailored for all ages. Younger
guests enjoy interactive, family-friendly humor like cartoons and physical comedy, while adults can dive deeper into classic and contemporary material –including uncensored content in The Blue Room. When visitors engage in exhibits together, the technology even identifies shared comedic tastes, serving up laughs everyone can enjoy.
Memorable moments happen often. A teenager, unfamiliar with classic television, left the Johnny Carson Immersive Experience saying, “You know what? He’s pretty funny.” A father and daughter once performed stand-up sets for each other – he picked comedian Mitch Hedberg, she chose John Mulaney – and spent the rest of the day cracking each other up. These shared experiences showcase how comedy connects generations.
The Comedy Center also offers a rare look at the creative process. Guests can explore original joke files from legends like George Carlin and Joan Rivers and gain insight into how comedians craft material. In The Blue Room – exclusively for guests 18 and older—visitors explore boundary-pushing material
from comedy pioneers like Richard Pryor and Lenny Bruce, along with legendary comedy roasts throughout comedy history – work that challenged social norms and redefined the edges of free expression.
Popular exhibits include the Stand-Up Lounge, where visitors tap their LaughBand to instantly access stand-up clips tailored to their humor profile; the “Act the Part” green screen experience, which places guests into iconic scenes from beloved movies and TV shows; and digital stations where visitors can create their own memes and cartoons – bringing their personal sense of humor to life in creative and shareable ways.
At the end of their visit, guests receive a breakdown of their Sense of Humor Profile via email in the form of a pie chart, along with a link to the photos, videos, and creations they made during their experience. It’s a fun, lasting reminder of what made them laugh – and why.
More than just entertainment, the National Comedy Center demonstrates how comedy reflects culture, bridges generations, and brings people together. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the craft and the joy that comes from sharing a good laugh.
The Lucille Ball Comedy Festival returns this summer from August 7–10, presented by the National Comedy Center – bringing a jampacked weekend of headline performances, special events, and one-of-a-kind comedy experiences to Lucille Ball’s hometown.
This year’s star-studded lineup features Jon Stewart and Bill
Murray, leading four days of unforgettable comedy with over 50 live events.
On Saturday, August 9 at 7:00 pm, Jon Stewart brings his acclaimed stand-up to the Northwest Arena for an evening of sharp, timely comedy. On Sunday, August 10 at 5:00 pm, Bill Murray takes the same stage alongside his Blood Brothers band for a highenergy mix of rock and blues. The evening begins with a Stand-Up Showcase featuring top comedic talent from across the country.
Also on Sunday, August 10 at 2:00 pm, fans of Saturday Night Live can go behind the scenes of the iconic show with Mikey Day – SNL cast member and writer – and Streeter Seidell, the show’s co-head writer. This special on-stage conversation, marking SNL’s 50th anniversary, will offer a rare look
at the collaborative creative process behind one of television’s most enduring comedy institutions. As a longtime writing team, Day and Seidell have shaped some of SNL’s most talked-about sketches in recent years, including Washington’s Dream with Nate Bargatze, Beavis & ButtHead with Ryan Gosling, and Alien Encounter with Kate McKinnon. The original SNL cue cards from Washington’s Dream are now on display at the National Comedy Center.
On Friday, August 8 at 7:00 pm, comedy takes center stage at the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts for Stand-Up Live –a fast-paced evening of standout comedy featuring some of today’s best touring comedians, as seen on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Kimmel Live! and more.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy free outdoor block parties, live music, and special programming inside the National Comedy Center – including a lineup of exclusive experiences that delve into the art and history of comedy. Visitors can experience special archive encounters, attend special presentations on comedy history, and take part in interactive workshops for kids and families, all designed to offer a deeper appreciation for the comedic craft.
The festival also features I Love Lucy legacy events, LucyTown tours, and themed lunches and dinners at Ricky Ricardo’s Tropicana Club, a re-creation of the iconic nightclub from I Love Lucy.
Now celebrating its 35th year, the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival has welcomed more than 300 performers – from Jerry Seinfeld, Joan Rivers, and Trevor Noah to Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, John Mulaney, and Taylor Tomlinson – drawing over 15,000 comedy fans to Jamestown annually.
See the full festival schedule, get tickets for all events and purchase museum admission at ComedyCenter.org/ festival.
As Saturday Night Live celebrates its 50th year, the National Comedy Center is honoring the show’s cultural legacy with an expanded exhibit now on view in Jamestown, NY.
The updated exhibit features new creative papers and storytelling elements that offer visitors a closer look at one of television’s most influential comedy institutions. Among the highlights is a display of original cue cards from the widely acclaimed “Washington’s Dream” sketch, featuring Nate Bargatze during his 2023 hosting appearance. The sketch quickly became one of the most talked-about and viral in SNL history, and the cue cards offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at how live comedy is delivered.
“This exhibit honors the artistry and ingenuity that has made Saturday Night Live a cornerstone of American comedy,” said Journey Gunderson, Executive Director of the National Comedy Center. “The expansion helps deepen our understanding of what it takes to create the kind of moments that live on in our collective memory.”
A special focus within the exhibit spotlights the show’s first five groundbreaking years, beginning with the very first sketch ever aired – featuring Michael O’Donoghue and John Belushi in a darkly absurd English lesson –and continuing through early iconic moments like the Killer Bees, and Weekend Update with Chevy Chase.
These formative sketches established SNL’s fearless, experimental spirit and introduced a new kind of live comedy that would go on to shape generations.
Also featured is a rare script from the show’s debut episode in October 1975 hosted by George Carlin, offering insight into the origins of a program that changed the face of television comedy. Through original script pages and contextual materials, visitors can trace how SNL has evolved over five decades while continuing to influence culture and reflect the national conversation.
Timed to coincide with the show’s 50th anniversary season, the expansion reinforces the National Comedy Center’s mission to preserve and celebrate the creative voices and institutions that have shaped comedy history.
Whether you’ve been watching since the early days or just discovered the show recently, the expanded exhibit offers a rare chance to connect with the legacy of Saturday Night Live – right here in Jamestown.
Plus, SNL fans can enjoy a special event during the upcoming Lucille Ball Comedy Festival featuring cast member and writer Mikey Day and head writer Streeter Seidell, as they reflect on their time at Saturday Night Live and offer behind-the-scenes insights into the show’s creative process. Learn more at ComedyCenter.org/Festival.
“I knew I was funny, but I was very, very insecure. I needed to control it – so I wrote everything down.” - Joan Rivers
Joan Rivers’ unparalleled career in comedy is being honored in a way that ensures generations will continue to laugh – and learn – from her work.
The National Comedy Center in Jamestown, NY, recently became home to one of the most extraordinary collections in comedy history: Joan Rivers’ legendary joke file, comprised of over 67,000 typewritten jokes that she carefully curated over the course of seven decades. This remarkable archive offers an unprecedented look at the meticulous mind and creativity of one of comedy’s most groundbreaking performers.
Each joke in Rivers’ file is organized by subject, crossreferenced and cataloged by hand, showcasing her relentless work ethic and the artistry behind every punchline. It’s a career-spanning roadmap of how she built, refined, and delivered her comedy – day after day, show after show.
Her jokes now sit alongside the archives of comedy giants like George Carlin, Carl Reiner, Johnny Carson, and The Smothers Brothers – part of the Comedy Center’s role as the United States’ Congressionally designated archive for the preservation of comedy history.
But the joke file is only the beginning. The full Joan Rivers archive includes her earliest hand-written jokes, pre-show notes, and annotated stage and film scripts.
An in-depth Joan Rivers exhibit – centered on her extraordinary joke file – will debut this August during the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival. Through vivid audiovisual storytelling and never-before-seen material, the exhibit will offer a powerful behind-the-scenes look at Rivers’ writing process, comedic craft, and lasting cultural impact.
“Joan Rivers was a master of evolution who ascended – again and again – to the heights of success in an industry that was not structured in her favor, blazing a wide and clear trail for generations of artists who would follow,” said National Comedy Center Executive Director Journey Gunderson. “She is not only a role model for women in comedy, but for all artists who desire to wield comedy’s expressive power to communicate something vital about the human condition.”
The joke file itself, featured in the documentary Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work, is a treasure trove of categories and zingers. Over 564 jokes are filed under “PARENTS HATED ME (see: NOT WANTED),” more than 850 skewer “LIZ TAYLOR,” and in “COOKING,” she once wrote: “If the Lord wanted me to cook, I’d have aluminum hands. These hands were meant to hold charge cards.”
As Rivers once said, “Life is very tough. If you don’t laugh, it’s tough.” Her joke file doesn’t just preserve her legacy –it affirms the enduring power of laughter, one punchline at a time.
Few comedians have shaped the cultural and political conversation quite like Jon Stewart. With a career spanning stand-up comedy, Emmy-winning television, acclaimed directing, and tireless advocacy, Stewart has become one of the most influential and respected voices in American comedy. Stewart’s breakthrough came in the 1990s with The
Jon Stewart Show on MTV, but his legacy was solidified during his 16-year tenure as host of The Daily Show from 1999 to 2015. Under his leadership, the show became a cultural touchstone – using satire to dissect media, politics, and current events with both humor and insight. Stewart earned 22 Emmy Awards during this era and redefined political satire as a form of meaningful commentary.
After his initial run on The Daily Show, Stewart focused on directing and producing, including the 2020 political satire Irresistible. In 2021, he launched The Problem with Jon Stewart on Apple TV+, a blend of comedy, interviews, and in-depth analysis that continued his reputation for tackling complex issues with honesty and wit.
In 2023, Stewart made a highly anticipated return to The Daily Show, hosting Monday night episodes and serving as executive producer. The show’s continued relevance under his guidance was affirmed with a 2024 Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Series – its 26th
overall and Stewart’s 23rd – highlighting his enduring influence on television, culture, and political discourse.
Beyond entertainment, Stewart has championed causes affecting 9/11 first responders, military veterans, and those impacted by toxic burn pits – testifying before Congress and earning bipartisan respect. His ability to merge advocacy with sharp, empathetic humor has made him a singular force in American public life.
While he’s shaped political dialogue from the anchor’s desk, Stewart’s roots remain firmly in stand-up. In recent years, he has returned to the stage with renewed energy. A longtime admirer of George Carlin –whose archives are housed at the National Comedy Center – Stewart has often cited Carlin as a key influence on his approach to comedy and social commentary. The Center is a fitting stage for Stewart’s continued celebration of comedy’s power and purpose.
On Saturday, August 9, 2025, Stewart will headline the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival at the National Comedy Center – bringing his unmistakable voice to Comedy’s
Hometown. The performance marks a rare opportunity to see the iconic comedian in an intimate setting, connecting directly with audiences who’ve followed his work for decades.
This year’s festival lineup is one of the most anticipated in its 35-year history, with Stewart’s soldout appearance serving as a major highlight. His performance caps a day of special events inside the National Comedy Center, including exclusive tours and archive presentations that dive deep into the legacy and future of comedy.
Stewart’s headlining appearance underscores the National Comedy Center’s mission to celebrate comedy not just as entertainment, but as a vital cultural force. His presence at the festival is a testament to the art form’s ability to provoke thought, inspire change, and unite people through shared laughter.
As the National Comedy Center continues to honor comedy’s greatest voices and inspire the next generation, Jon Stewart’s performance will stand as a reminder of why comedy matters – and how one voice can make us laugh, reflect, and think more deeply about the world around us.
Bill Murray has long been one of America’s most beloved and unconventional comedic voices. His career took off in the late 1970s when he joined the cast of Saturday Night Live, quickly becoming a standout with his deadpan delivery, physical humor, and improvisational brilliance. From there, Murray launched into a series of film hits that defined a
generation: Caddyshack, Stripes, and Ghostbusters made him a household name, while later performances in Groundhog Day, Rushmore, and Lost in Translation revealed the depth of his acting range. A Golden Globe winner and Academy Award nominee, Murray is known not only for his singular comedic style but also for bringing soul, vulnerability, and humanity to every role he plays.
Yet beyond the screen, Murray harbors a profound passion for music – an art form he’s explored with equal charisma and unpredictability. In his latest musical venture, he performs with the Blood Brothers Band—a powerhouse blues ensemble featuring acclaimed guitarists Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia. For this special performance, they’ll be joined by legendary musician Jimmy Vivino—best known as the longtime music director and bandleader for CONAN – appearing as a special guest for the evening. Together, they breathe new life into classic rock and blues tracks, delivering performances that are both nostalgic and invigorating. Over the past year, Murray has been touring with the Blood Brothers Band to enthusiastic audiences
and critical acclaim. Their shows are loose, joyful, and electric – full of unexpected moments and deep musical grooves. Whether he’s belting out a blues standard or slipping into a heartfelt spoken interlude, Murray brings the same emotional honesty and unpredictable charm to the stage that has defined his career. Their setlists often include crowd-pleasing renditions of Bob Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone” and The Kinks’ “Tired of Waiting,” delivered with Murray’s unmistakable flair for timing and connection.
Now, as the headliner for Sunday evening at the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival, Murray will take the stage with the Blood Brothers Band for a high-energy musical performance that reflects his lifelong love for storytelling through song.
This special evening at the Northwest
Arena will kick off with a Stand-Up Showcase – a fast-paced lineup of standout comedy featuring some of today’s top touring comedians from across the country. Then Murray and his bandmates bring it all home in a finale that blends music, humor, and heart. It’s a double bill that bridges two great art forms: stand-up comedy and live music.
Whether he’s leading a crowd in a sing-along or crooning a blues classic, Murray’s shows are marked by warmth, spontaneity, and heart. His performances go beyond entertainment – they tap into the same emotional core that has made his acting so enduring.
Tickets for this event are available now at ComedyCenter.org/festival. Don’t miss your chance to experience one of the world’s most unique performers for an evening that promises humor, harmony, and a whole lot of heart.
As Saturday Night Live celebrates its milestone 50th anniversary, the National Comedy Center is hosting a special on-stage discussion during its comedy festival with two of the show’s most prolific
comedy minds: Streeter Seidell and Mikey Day. Known for their unforgettable sketches that have kept audiences laughing for nearly a decade, Seidell and Day will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process that drives one of television’s most iconic comedy institutions.
Open Monday – Saturday @ 11
Open Monday – Saturday @ 11
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Open Monday – Saturday @ 11
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Open Monday – Saturday @ 11
111 W. 3rd Street • Jamestown, NY
NY
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A Unique Boutique in the Heart of Downtown Jamestown. Just around the Corner from the National Comedy Center. www.dotsgiftboutique.com
A Unique Boutique in the Heart of Downtown Jamestown. Just around the Corner from the National Comedy Center.
A Unique Boutique in the Heart of Downtown Jamestown. Just around the Corner from the National Comedy Center. www.dotsgiftboutique.com
111 W. 3rd Street • Jamestown, NY
Just around the Corner from the National Comedy Center. www.dotsgiftboutique.com
716-489-3003
716-489-3003
716-489-3003
Open Monday – Saturday @ 11
Seidell currently serves as one of SNL ’s head writers, while Day balances his work as both a writer and a featured cast member. Their creative partnership has become one of the show’s most successful and influential, blending sharp satire, physical humor, and pop culture parody to help define a new era of SNL Their career paths reflect the evolution of modern comedy: Day began on Nick Cannon’s Wild ‘N Out before joining SNL as a writer and becoming a cast member in 2016. Seidell rose to prominence as a
– Saturday @ 11
founding contributor to CollegeHumor , bringing his internet-savvy comedy voice to SNL in 2014 and quickly ascending to the role of head writer.
Together, they’ve been the force behind some of SNL ’s most talked-about sketches in recent years. These include the viral “Alien Encounter” series with Kate McKinnon, the hilariously surreal “Beavis and Butt-Head” parody, and the now-iconic “David S. Pumpkins” Halloween sketches starring Tom Hanks. They’ve also co-written the widely acclaimed “Washington’s Dream” sketch, in which Nate Bargatze portrays George Washington reacting to the customs and contradictions of a newly formed America.
Original cue cards from the sketch are now on display at the National Comedy Center as part of its expanded Saturday Night Live exhibit.
That exhibit – commemorating SNL ’s 50-year legacy –offers an immersive look at the show’s creative energy and weekly chaos. Seidell and Day’s appearance during the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival underscores the Center’s commitment to spotlighting not only
performers, but also the visionary writers behind the scenes.
Their on-stage conversation on August 10th will explore how sketches evolve from pitch to live performance, what it’s like to write under the pressure of SNL ’s tight production schedule, and the thrill (and chaos) of creating comedy for the biggest names in entertainment.
This special event is part of the National Comedy Center’s ongoing tribute to SNL’ s cultural legacy. It takes place at the historic Reg Lenna Center for the Arts in downtown Jamestown.
Tickets are available now at ComedyCenter.org/ festival, and include full admission to the National Comedy Center, where the expanded SNL exhibit and much more await. National Comedy Center members receive free admission to this event as part of their membership benefits.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Saturday Night Liv e or simply curious about how sketch comedy comes to life, this rare behind-the-scenes conversation promises to be one of the highlights of the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival.
Earlier this month, the National Comedy Center and Chautauqua Institution partnered to present a weeklong celebration of comedy that drew packed audiences and enthusiastic praise from attendees. The Comedy Now week brought together some of the most acclaimed creators and performers in comedy for a dynamic blend of morning lectures, evening performances, and special program – all co-curated by comedian Lewis Black, a member of the National Comedy Center’s Advisory Board.
At the heart of the experience was the 10:45 a.m. morning lecture series in Chautauqua’s historic Amphitheater, where audiences gathered daily for conversations with leading voices in comedy and storytelling. The week opened with Pete Docter, Pixar’s
Chief Creative Officer and Academy Award-winning director of Inside Out and Up, alongside Kelsey Mann, director of Inside Out 2. In a conversation moderated by Black, the two filmmakers shared how humor, emotion, and character come together to create universally resonant animated stories.
On Tuesday, The Daily Show took center stage. Comedian Jeff Stilson led a behind-the-scenes discussion with Emmy-winning showrunner and executive producer Jen Flanz and key members of the creative team: Matt O’Brien, Max Browning, and Elise Terrell `– as they offered a candid look at how the show navigates breaking news with sharp, satirical comedy.
Midweek, the program honored a comedy legend with “Johnny Carson at 100,” featuring author and comedian Wayne Federman and NPR critic David Bianculli. Together, they explored Carson’s legacy and examined how his influence still echoes across the world of late-night television.
Thursday’s session featured acclaimed stand-up Paula Poundstone in conversation with National Comedy Center Executive Director Journey Gunderson. Known for her quick wit, improvisational brilliance, and deep observational humor, Poundstone – also a member of the Comedy Center’s Advisory Board – not only
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Paula Poundstone visiting the National Comedy Center
shared insights during the conversation, but also performed stand-up comedy from the stage, engaging in spontaneous crowd work with the audience that had the Amphitheater roaring with laughter.
Come support your local artists!
Tony Shalhoub and Brooke Adams
The week concluded with Tony Shalhoub, Emmy and Tony Award-winning star of Monk and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and acclaimed actress Brooke Adams, in an intimate dialogue moderated by Kelly Carlin, an author, performer, and daughter of comedy legend George Carlin. Their conversation blended reflections on art, partnership, and finding humor in everyday life.
Two evening performances rounded out the week. Black’s The Rant Is Due: Live from Chautauqua brought his signature fury and wit to a live taping of his podcast, driven by audience-submitted rants. The following evening, Roy Wood Jr. – Daily Show veteran and now host of his own CNN weekly program – delivered a sharp and memorable stand-up set that tackled current events with intelligence, humor, and edge.
Lewis Black also presented readings of his original play The Deal, offering audiences a different view of his creative voice, and led a candid, engaging master class, sharing insights into the evolution of his comedic style and the craft of political and personal satire.
Saturday & Sunday July 19th & 20th
Saturday & Sunday August 16th & 17th 11am—5pm
“This week reminded us that comedy isn’t just about laughs – it’s about understanding, connection, and resilience,” said Journey Gunderson. “We were proud to bring together such extraordinary voices with Chautauqua Institution and to highlight how comedy continues to shape our culture and our lives.” Located
Many attendees also took time to visit the National Comedy Center in nearby Jamestown—extending the week’s conversations with exhibits and experiences that echoed the themes of creativity, storytelling, and laughter as a unifying force.
During the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival in August, the National Comedy Center will offer visitors exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses into the creative process that shaped generations of comedy. Guests can experience special archive presentations, in-depth pop-up sessions, and hands-on Kids Comedy Workshops led by museum archivists and educators – all included with museum admission and designed to bring the process and history of comedy to life in new and engaging ways.
August 7 • 12:00–1:00 PM
August 8 • 11:00 AM–12:00 PM
August 9 • 10:30–11:30 AM
Led by museum educators, these fun and interactive workshops introduce children ages 6–12 and their families to the fundamentals of comedy through stand-up, improv games, and laughterfilled activities.
August 7 • 1:30–2:00 PM
August 9 • 12:30–1:00 PM
Comedy Karaoke Lounge
Discover how the principle of “Yes, And” – the foundation of improv that encourages listening, agreement, and building on others’ ideas – has shaped the evolution of modern comedy. From its roots in theatrical games to its influence on sketch and stand-up, this session explores how improvisation became one of comedy’s most enduring and collaborative forms.
August 7 • 2:30–3:00 PM
August 8 • 6:30–7:00 PM
Comedy Karaoke Lounge
Honoring the centennial of legendary comic Lenny Bruce, this discussion explores his fearless approach to stand-up and his role in expanding the boundaries of free speech in comedy.
August 7 • 3:30–4:00 PM
August 8 • 12:30–1:00 PM
August 9 • 2:30–3:00 PM
Comedy Karaoke Lounge
Get an inside scoop on life behind the scenes at 30 Rock. Learn about the rigorous weekly schedule of Saturday Night Live, how sketches go from paper to production, and how the show has evolved over its 50 year run.
August 7 (pop-up throughout the day)
Archivists stationed near the Page to Stage exhibit will reveal handwritten campaign notes and documents from Pat Paulsen’s faux presidential campaigns – offering an intimate view into his iconic brand of political comedy.
August 8 (pop-up throughout the day)
Explore scripts and working documents chronicling Madelyn Pugh Davis’s role in the creation of I Love Lucy and other television classics. This session offers a behind-thescenes look at how one of comedy’s pioneering female writers helped shape some of the most iconic moments in TV history.
August 8 • 3:00–3:30 PM
August 9 • 4:00–4:30 PM
Comedy Karaoke Lounge
Explore the history, creation, and reception of scatological humor—because everyone farts, poops, and pees, and those jokes still make us laugh.
August 9 (pop-up throughout the day)
A once-in-a-lifetime peek into Carl Reiner’s annotated scripts from The Dick Van Dyke Show. These documents provide deep insight into the creative collaboration behind one of television’s most influential sitcoms.
The museum will have extended hours – open until 7:00 PM on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of the festival.
For the full schedule and ticket info, visit ComedyCenter. org/festival.
The National Comedy Center is proving that laughter truly is powerful medicine through its One Laugh at a Time Memory Café – a free, monthly program designed for individuals living with memory loss, including Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, along with their caregivers and loved ones.
Held on the first Monday of each month, the Memory Café offers a welcoming, low-stress environment in which participants can explore the museum’s highly interactive exhibits at their own pace. The experience invites guests to reconnect – not only with the past, but with one another –through the simple joy of laughter.
From the familiar faces of Lucille Ball and Johnny
Carson to the timeless humor of Carol Burnett and Dick Van Dyke, the exhibits spark delight and – most importantly – memory. A sound, a clip, or a comic’s voice can instantly bring back a long-forgotten moment, creating smiles of recognition and opening the door to meaningful conversation.
“Comedy evokes a sense of nostalgia in so many of us, and it’s a walk down memory lane,” said Megan Eckwahl, Marketing and Communications Manager at the National Comedy Center. “Even a short laugh or a familiar sketch can unlock something powerful –for both the person living with memory loss and their loved one.”
Following the self-guided gallery experience, guests gather in the museum’s Karaoke Lounge – transformed into a cozy, conversation-friendly space – for light refreshments and brief presentations that encourage comfort and connection. These moments offer a relaxed way to come together and enjoy something meaningful, without pressure or formality.
For caregivers, the Memory Café offers more than just a break – it offers an emotional reset. Instead of focusing on care tasks or symptoms, they can simply sit beside someone they love, share a smile, and laugh together. These moments – however brief – often feel like small miracles.
“Caregiving can be overwhelming and isolating,” said Rochelle Mole, the National Comedy Center’s Chief Financial and Operating Officer. “This program creates a space where families can set aside the stress –even briefly – and enjoy a shared experience that feels joyful and uplifting. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful that can be.”
Mole, who has family members living with memory loss, has participated in the café both professionally and personally. “To see them light up with laughter or recognize a moment from the past – it’s incredibly moving. But just as importantly, it’s a break for the caregiver. It’s a chance to breathe, to connect, and to feel seen.”
The program was born from visitors who shared stories of spontaneous laughter unlocking meaningful exchanges – eye contact, a word, a memory – that had felt out of reach. The impact of those moments led the Comedy Center team to create a regular, welcoming space designed to nurture them.
“With the launch of our Memory Café, the National
Comedy Center is extending our mission in a deeply meaningful way,” said Executive Director Journey Gunderson. “This program celebrates the power of comedy to connect us – across generations, across memories, and across moments of challenge – with warmth, dignity, and joy.”
Caregivers often say the café allows them to experience something with their loved one – not just manage care for them. It’s not about looking back or looking ahead –it’s about being present, together, in a space filled with laughter, recognition, and relief.
One recent attendee, whose wife was diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s, reflected: “It was the first time in weeks that we both just sat and smiled without trying to problem-solve something. We needed that.”
The program is made possible through Exhale, The Family Caregiver Initiative, with generous support from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and the Health Foundation for Western and Central New York. Their partnership allows the National Comedy Center to offer this experience at no cost while expanding outreach and
caregiver support.
“Our Memory Café is rooted in connection – in the kind of shared smiles and laughter that remind people they’re not alone,” Eckwahl added. “Sometimes, a simple laugh can do more than words ever could.”
Admission to the Memory Café is free, but space is limited to ensure a calm and supportive environment. Advance registration is encouraged at comedycenter.org/ memorycafe, or by phone: 716-484-2222.
Enjoy 50 miles along the shoreline of Lake Erie, with 22 unique wineries to visit in NY and PA. Taste delicious, award-winning wines, and enjoy food, music, and events throughout the year.
Last fall, the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, NY was named “Best Museum” in the 2024 Best of 716 awards, presented by The Buffalo News. Determined entirely by public vote, the annual awards recognize the most beloved attractions, businesses, and institutions across Western New York.
The Best of 716 awards celebrate excellence across the region – from arts and culture to dining, entertainment, and services – making this win especially meaningful as a meaningful endorsement from the community and a reflection of the Comedy Center’s growing role in Western New York’s cultural life.
In a competitive museum category, the National Comedy Center topped two of Buffalo’s most iconic cultural institutions: the Buffalo Museum of Science and the newly reimagined Buffalo AKG Art Museum.
“This award reflects our commitment to creating a space where people can connect through laughter and appreciate the art of comedy,” said Journey Gunderson, Executive Director of the National Comedy Center. “We’re deeply honored to be recognized by our fellow Western New Yorkers and
grateful to be part of such a vibrant cultural landscape.”
Since its opening in 2018, the National Comedy Center has garnered national and international acclaim for its groundbreaking exhibits, immersive technology, and storytelling. TIME magazine named it one of its “World’s Greatest Places,” while USA Today hailed it as the “Best New Museum in the Country.”
With more than 50 immersive exhibits and groundbreaking personalization technology, the National Comedy Center is one of the most innovative and interactive museums in the country. Visitors experience a journey through the art form –exploring stand-up, sketch, improv, television, and film – all tailored to their individual sense of humor. Guests can view rare artifacts up close, create their own comedic content, and explore how laughter has both reflected and shaped the American experience.
This Best of 716 recognition affirms the Comedy Center’s growing impact not just as a national destination, but as a cultural cornerstone in Western New York – celebrating creativity, diversity, and the universal power of laughter.
The National Comedy Center has announced that record-breaking comedian Nate Bargatze has joined its Advisory Board of Directors.
Recognized as a leading voice in stand-up today, Bargatze brings both wide-ranging influence and a deep appreciation for comedy’s legacy to the Center’s national advisory board.
Bargatze, who headlined the National Comedy Center’s 2024 Lucille Ball Comedy Festival, has become a strong advocate for the institution and its mission. “I’ve immersed myself in the exhibits for hours each time I’ve explored the National Comedy Center in Jamestown,” stated Bargatze. “It’s the only place that truly celebrates
the essence of what we do. For an artist, it’s a tribute to this thing we work so hard at, and for the average visitor, it pulls back the curtain on what elevates it to being an art. The experience is just awesome.”
“The story of comedy is vast, and Nate has demonstrated a commitment to our mission to preserve that vital story,” said National Comedy Center Executive Director Journey Gunderson. “He is influencing the comedy of the present and setting precedent with his accomplishments and dedication to the craft, while being equally dedicated to honoring the legacies of the long line of artists who came before him.”
Bargatze joins an esteemed Advisory Board that includes Amy Poehler, Paul Feig, Pete Docter, W. Kamau Bell, Paula Poundstone and Jim Gaffigan. “Stand-up means so much to me, so I’m happy to be welcoming my good friend Nate, who shares that feeling, and who also supports the Comedy Center’s work to preserve the history of our craft while showcasing the process,” said Gaffigan.
As part of his involvement, Bargatze has contributed to the Center’s Carl Reiner Department of Archives and Preservation by donating the original cue cards from his Saturday Night Live hosting debut in October 2023 –used in the now-viral “Washington’s Dream” sketch. He returned to host SNL for a second time in October 2024 during the show’s landmark 50th anniversary season.
Bargatze’s career continues to flourish across multiple platforms. His bestselling memoir, Big Dumb Eyes: Stories from a Simpler Mind, was released in May 2025. He’s currently performing to sold-out arenas around the world on his Big Dumb Eyes World Tour, which spans more than 100 dates across North America, Europe and the Middle East.
His latest Netflix special, Your Friend, Nate Bargatze, premiered in December 2024 and quickly became one of the platform’s most-watched stand-up specials. His earlier specials include Hello World, The Greatest Average American (Grammy-nominated), and The Tennessee Kid.
Bargatze is also the founder of Nateland Entertainment, a family-friendly content company producing standup specials, sketch comedy, scripted content – and his hit Nateland Podcast, which regularly draws millions of listeners and has featured behind-the-scenes looks at the National Comedy Center.
He will next be seen starring in and co-writing the Sony Pictures comedy The Breadwinner, slated for release in March 2026. This September, he’ll host the 77th Emmy Awards on CBS – his first time serving as a major awards show host.
“From now on, when anybody says they want to get into comedy, I’ll tell them the first thing they should do is come here.”
– Dan Aykroyd
Every visit is a mind-blowing experience for me — it’s become my favorite museum of all time.
– Amy Poehler
“
This is the House where the First Amendment lives.
– W. Kamau Bell
“The folks at the National Comedy Center are thoughtful, respectful and excited about the art of comedy. I can think of no other place for my dad’s legacy to be permanently honored, archived and preserved for future generations.”
– Kelly Carlin
“We need to know and understand who we are through jokes. I think a place like this is, ultimately, really life affirming. ”
– Margaret Cho
“This is the best thing that ever happened to comedy.”
– Laugh-In creator George Schlatter
“
I hope everybody continues to come out and support this because it’s incredible.
– Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias
“I’ve seen 40% of it and it’s overwhelming. It’s great.”
– John Mulaney “ It’s incredible!
“
This
is the
most unique museum
in the entire world.
– Dick Smothers
“The experience is just awesome.”
– Nate Bargatze
– Lily Tomlin
“It’s the Library of Congress of comedy, only unlike the Library of Congress, it’s @#$% funny. Anyone who comes here, their mind will be blown. The level of technology will astonish you.”
– Lewis Black
“You’re going to be completely immersed. If you like comedy, if you’ve ever laughed, this is the place to come. You’ll never find another place that has everybody that you’ve ever laughed at in your life in one place.”
– Rob Reiner
“
This place overwhelms me. I got to the end of it and I said, ‘I want to cry.’
– Jeff Foxworthy
THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025
Have fun and learn more about how you can make comedy! Explore the museum through discussions and activities led by a museum educator, then try your hand at improv, stand-up, and internet humor. Ideal for children aged 6 to 12 and their families, though all ages (and audience members) are welcome!
THURSDAY AUGUST 7, 2025 @ 12:00PM - 1:00PM
NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Saying yes, being in the moment, listening to others — not just what a therapist might tell you to do, but also an improv coach! Learn more about the history and cultural impact of improvisational theater, and how it has infiltrated and improved every other comedic format.
THURSDAY AUGUST 7, 2025 @ 1:30PM- 2:00PM
COMEDY KARAOKE LOUNGE @ NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Archives Encounter: Pat Paulsen for President
Explore selections from the archive of legendary comedian Pat Paulsen, including his hand-written notes and working documents. Archivists will be stationed periodically near the Page to Stage exhibit area.
THURSDAY AUGUST 7, 2025 POP UP THROUGHOUT THE DAY
NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Celebrate the centennial birthday of one of the most important stand-ups of all time: Lenny Bruce! Join a museum educator in discussing and analyzing the life and works of this incredible comedian, and how he changed American comedy as we know it.
THURSDAY AUGUST 7, 2025 @ 2:30PM- 3:00PM
COMEDY KARAOKE LOUNGE @ NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Get an inside scoop on what it’s like within the hallowed halls of 30 Rock at Saturday Night Live. Learn more about the rigorous weekly schedule, taking a sketch from paper to production, and how the show has changed over its nearly 50 year run.
THURSDAY AUGUST 7, 2025 @ 3:30PM - 4:00PM COMEDY KARAOKE LOUNGE @ NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Is…Desilu Studios
Enjoy dinner in the famous Tropicana Club as we relive the moments when Desilu Studios took home the entertainment industry’s biggest prizes! A buffet dinner will be served while the Tropicana stage re-creation will be open for photos with Lucille Ball’s Emmy Award!
THURSDAY AUGUST 7, 2025 @ 5:00PM
TROPICANA CLUB
Price: $37.50
Spend the evening with us in your favorite Hollywoodstyle attire for a fun-filled event as we celebrate Desilu’s 75th anniversary, including hors d’oeuvres, music, a costume contest, and more! Prizes will be awarded to the top contest winners.
THURSDAY AUGUST 7, 2025 @ 7:00PM DOUBLETREE
Price: $47.50
Comics from around the nation who have appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Conan, Late Night with Seth Meyers, Last Comic Standing, and more will be performing their newest, and sometimes blue-est material. This event takes place in “Ricky Ricardo’s” famous night club.
Beer and wine served at additional cost.
Featuring: Mia Jackson, Jay Jurden, Nathan Macintosh, Shane Torres, and Eagle Witt!
Please Note: Show contains adult content.
THURSDAY AUGUST 7, 2025 @ 8:00PM & 10:00PM
TROPICANA CLUB
Price: $37.50
FRIDAY, AUGUST 8, 2025
Archives Encounter: Madelyn Pugh, “Girl Writer”
Learn the story of legendary comedy writer Madelyn Pugh as you explore scripts and working documents chronicling her role in the creation of I Love Lucy and other television classics. Archivists will be stationed periodically near the Page to Stage exhibit area.
FRIDAY AUGUST 8, 2025 POP UP THROUGHOUT THE DAY
NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
An ever-popular guided bus tour of Lucy’s hometown, our “Lucy Town Tours”, with a friendly and knowledgeable step-on guide, will take you to places of significance to Lucille Ball in Jamestown, NY and nearby Celoron. You will see the house that she was born in, the house where she grew up, and much more. Approx. Duration 1hr 45min
FRIDAY, AUGUST 8, 2025 @ 10:30AM, 1:00PM & 3:30PM
LUCY DESI MUSEUM Price: $27.50
Have fun and learn more about how you can make comedy! Explore the museum through discussions and activities led by a museum educator, then try your hand at improv, stand-up, and internet humor. Ideal for children aged 6 to 12 and their families, though all ages (and audience members) are welcome!
FRIDAY AUGUST 8, 2025 @ 11:00AM - 12:00PM NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Get an inside scoop on what it’s like within the hallowed halls of 30 Rock at Saturday Night Live. Learn more about the rigorous weekly schedule, taking a sketch from paper to production, and how the show has changed over its nearly 50 year run.
FRIDAY AUGUST 8, 2025 @ 12:30PM - 1:00PM
COMEDY KARAOKE LOUNGE @ NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Enjoy lunch in the famous Tropicana Club as “Ricky Ricardo” entertains with fan-favorite video performances on the big screen! A buffet lunch will be served while the Tropicana stage re-creation will be open for photos! All attendees also receive a one-of-akind Babalu keepsake.
FRIDAY AUGUST 8, 2025 @ 12:30PM
TROPICANA CLUB
Price: $37.50
Who will be crowned 2025’s Lucy Desi super-fan trivia winner? This trivia contest covers the incredible lives and careers of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz—starting with easier questions and amping up in difficulty as you compete with your peers to win a grand prize. Sign up today to play!
FRIDAY AUGUST 8, 2025 @ 2:00PM
DOUBLETREE
Price: $25.00
Let’s face it - everybody farts, poops, and pees. And just about everybody finds these acts funny (at least to some degree). Join a museum educator and engage with all things scatological humor by discussing the history, creation, and reception of some of the most well-known scatological jokes.
FRIDAY AUGUST 8, 2025 @ 3:00PM - 3:30PM COMEDY KARAOKE LOUNGE @ NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Step into the writers’ room of I Love Lucy for a rare glimpse behind-the-scenes into the creative work and legacy of the comedy-writing duo of Bob Carroll Jr. and Madelyn Pugh. Join us for a special event featuring Christina Carroll, daughter of Bob Carroll Jr., as she shares personal stories and reflections on her father’s creative genius and the legacy he helped to build alongside Lucille Ball and the I Love Lucy team. An opportunity for Q&A will be available.
FRIDAY AUGUST 8, 2025 @ 5:00PM
DOUBLETREE
Price: $37.50
Enjoy dinner in the famous Tropicana Club as Lucy and Desi give you a behind-the-scenes tour of Desilu Studios! A buffet dinner will be served while the Tropicana stage re-creation will be open for photos and attendees receive a one-of-a-kind Desilu souvenir!
FRIDAY AUGUST 8, 2025 @ 5:00PM TROPICANA CLUB
Price: $37.50
Celebrate the centennial birthday of one of the most important stand-ups of all time: Lenny Bruce! Join a museum educator in discussing and analyzing the life and works of this incredible comedian, and how he changed American comedy as we know it.
FRIDAY AUGUST 8, 2025 @ 6:30PM- 7:00PM
COMEDY KARAOKE LOUNGE @ NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
A fast-paced evening of standout comedy featuring some of today’s best touring comedians – seen on major network late-night shows, top comedy platforms, and stages across the country. From sharp observational humor to high-energy punchlines, this show delivers an unforgettable night of laughter.
Featuring: Adam Mamawala, Shane Torres, and more!
FRIDAY AUGUST 8, 2025 @ 7:00PM
REG LENNA CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Price: $20.00
Comics from around the nation who have appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Conan, Late Night with Seth Meyers, Last Comic Standing, and more will be performing their newest, and sometimes blue-est material. This event takes place in “Ricky Ricardo’s” famous night club.
Beer and wine served at additional cost.
Featuring: Alex Kumin, Caitlin Gill, Dina Hashem, Nathan Macintosh, and Adam Mamawala!
Please Note: Show contains adult content.
FRIDAY AUGUST 8, 2025 @ 8:00PM & 10:00PM
TROPICANA CLUB
Price: $37.50
Archives Encounter: Dick Van Dyke’s Centennial Year
Get up close to memorabilia and production archives from the classic sitcom The Dick Van Dyke Show. Archivists will be stationed periodically near the TV Room exhibit.
SATURDAY AUGUST 9, 2025 POP UP THROUGHOUT THE DAY
NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
An ever-popular guided bus tour of Lucy’s hometown, our “Lucy Town Tours”, with a friendly and knowledgeable step-on guide, will take you to places of significance to Lucille Ball in Jamestown, NY and nearby Celoron. You will see the house that she was born in, the house where she grew up, and much more.
Approx. Duration 1hr 45min
SATURDAY, AUGUST 9, 2025 @ 10:00AM, 12:30PM & 3:00PM
LUCY DESI MUSEUM
Price: $27.50
Have fun and learn more about how you can make comedy! Explore the museum through discussions and activities led by a museum educator, then try your hand at improv, stand-up, and internet humor. Ideal for children aged 6 to 12 and their families, though all ages (and audience members) are welcome!
SATURDAY AUGUST 9, 2025 @ 10:30AM - 11:30AM NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Show off your knowledge of all things I Love Lucy in our annual fan trivia contest! I Love Lucy Trivia: 101 is a family-friendly contest designed with lots of laughs for casual and long-time fans alike! Fun prizes will be awarded throughout the contest. Sign up today to play!
SATURDAY AUGUST 9, 2025 @ 11:00AM
DOUBLETREE
Price: $25.00
Saying yes, being in the moment, listening to others — not just what a therapist might tell you to do, but also an improv coach! Learn more about the history and cultural impact of improvisational theater, and how it has infiltrated and improved every other comedic format.
SATURDAY AUGUST 9, 2025 @ 12:30PM- 1:00PM COMEDY KARAOKE LOUNGE @ NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Enjoy lunch in the famous Tropicana Club as Lucy and Desi give you a behind-the-scenes tour of Desilu Studios! A buffet lunch will be served while the Tropicana stage re-creation will be open for photos and attendees receive a one-of-a-kind Desilu souvenir!
SATURDAY AUGUST 9, 2025 @ 12:00PM
TROPICANA CLUB
Price: $37.50
Get an inside scoop on what it’s like within the hallowed halls of 30 Rock at Saturday Night Live. Learn more about the rigorous weekly schedule, taking a sketch from paper to production, and how the show has changed over its nearly 50 year run.
SATURDAY AUGUST 9, 2025 @ 2:30PM - 3:00PM COMEDY KARAOKE LOUNGE @ NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Let’s face it - everybody farts, poops, and pees. And just about everybody finds these acts funny (at least to some degree). Join a museum educator and engage with all things scatological humor by discussing the history, creation, and reception of some of the most well-known scatological jokes.
SATURDAY AUGUST 9, 2025 @ 4:00PM - 4:30PM COMEDY KARAOKE LOUNGE @ NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Enjoy dinner in the famous Tropicana Club as we relive the moments when Desilu Studios took home the entertainment industry’s biggest prizes! A buffet dinner will be served while the Tropicana stage re-creation will be open for photos with Lucille Ball’s Emmy Award!
SATURDAY AUGUST 9, 2025 @ 4:00PM & 5:30PM
TROPICANA CLUB
Price: $37.50
Join us outside of the National Comedy Center before and after the Jon Stewart show for a party like no other! Enjoy live music, beer, wine, food trucks and more!
SATURDAY AUGUST 9, 2025 @ 5:00PM NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER PRICE: FREE
Sunday 12-6
Monday 7-7
Tuesday 9-6
Wednesday 10-6
Thursday 10-6
Friday 10-6
Saturday 11-4 westmainmercantile 1719westmainmercantile
17-19 West Main St. (Rt. 394) • Falconer, NY 14733 716-338-0400 • www.1719westmain.com
Comics from around the nation who have appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Conan, Late Night with Seth Meyers, Last Comic Standing, and more will be performing their newest, and sometimes blue-est material. This event takes place in “Ricky Ricardo’s” famous night club.
Beer and wine served at additional cost.
Featuring: Brittany Brave, Alex Kumin, Ryan Goldsher, Adam Mamawala, and Monroe Martin!
Longtime host and executive producer of The Daily Show, Jon Stewart redefined political satire and has become a trusted voice for a generation. Recently, he has returned to stand-up comedy, bringing his unfiltered perspective and razor-sharp observations back to the stage. His rare live appearances have been met with sold-out crowds and critical acclaim. This is a show you won’t want to miss!
SATURDAY AUGUST 9, 2025 @ 7:00PM
NORTHWEST ARENA
Prices range from $67.50 to $177.50
Please Note: Show contains adult content.
SATURDAY AUGUST 9, 2025 @ 8:00PM & 10:00PM
TROPICANA CLUB
Price: $37.50
Enjoy brunch and a sampling of teas in the famous Tropicana Club just as “Lucy & Ethel” would have with the Women’s Club! A buffet brunch will be served while the Tropicana stage re-creation will be open for selfies! All attendees also receive a one-of-a-kind afternoon tea keepsake.
SUNDAY AUGUST 10, 2025 @ 11:00AM
TROPICANA CLUB
Price: $37.50
As Saturday Night Live celebrates its 50th anniversary, we welcome cast member and writer Mikey Day and head writer Streeter Seidell for an on-stage conversation offering an inside look at the iconic sketch comedy institution. Day and Seidell have shaped many of the show’s most memorable moments over the past decade. Purchase includes one free admission to the National Comedy Center (including a new SNL exhibit) valid for 90 days.
SUNDAY AUGUST 10, 2025 @ 2:00PM
REG LENNA CENTER FOR THE ARTS
PRICE: $37.50 including museum admission. Members free
Block Party at the National Comedy Center
Join us outside of the National Comedy Center before and after the The Stand-Up Showcase Featuring Bill Murray and His Blood Brothers for a party like no other! Enjoy live music, beer, wine, food trucks and more!
Featuring: Tony Deyo, Andy Huggins, Ryan Goldsher, and Jakie Fabulous
SUNDAY AUGUST 10, 2025 @ 3:00PM
NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER
PRICE: FREE
Our ever-popular Stand-Up Showcase will be followed by a Rock ‘n’ Blues concert featuring Bill Murray and His Blood Brothers for an evening of live comedy and music. A blues and classic rock performance along with stand-up by some of today’s top talent from around the country will make this a must-see event!
SUNDAY AUGUST 10, 2025 @ 5:00PM
NORTHWEST ARENA
Prices range from $37.50 to $143.50
In March 2021, the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, NY honored comedy legend Carl Reiner by renaming its archival division the Carl Reiner Department of Archives and Preservation. The tribute coincided with the generous donation of Reiner’s extensive personal archive by his family, encompassing rare creative papers, scripts, notes, and artifacts from his remarkable seven-decade career as a writer, director, producer, author, and performer.
The department now serves as the central hub for all archival and preservation work within the National Comedy Center. It furthers the museum’s mission to present, preserve, and celebrate comedy’s rich history— not only as entertainment, but as a vital reflection of culture and society. Through its work, the department provides scholars, artists, students, and the public with access to invaluable materials that chronicle the development of comedy across generations.
Reiner’s archive includes thousands of pages of handwritten material, annotated scripts, business correspondence, rare photographs, audio recordings, and video footage – along with memorabilia and awards, including his Emmys and the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. The collection paints a vivid
very foundation of modern comedy.
In addition to Reiner’s materials, the department preserves collections from other comedy trailblazers such as George Carlin, Lucille Ball, Johnny Carson, Betty White, The Smothers Brothers, Don Rickles, Joan Rivers, Lenny Bruce and more – offering deep insight into the creative processes and cultural impact of some of comedy’s most iconic figures.
The naming of the department in Carl Reiner’s honor reflects both his immense contributions to the art form and his deep personal connection to the National Comedy Center. As a founding Advisory Board member, Reiner was an early and enthusiastic supporter of the Center’s vision to establish comedy as a celebrated and studied American art form.
Fellow artists and comedians have praised the decision to name the department after Reiner, recognizing the appropriateness and significance of the honor.
“There will never be another Carl Reiner,” said Mel Brooks. “I’m thrilled that the National Comedy Center will be preserving Carl’s archives and naming its archives and preservation department in his honor –
because no one deserves it more than my best friend.”
Dick Van Dyke added, “Carl Reiner was a true genius and the finest human being that I’ve ever known—he is irreplaceable. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this tremendous honor from the National Comedy Center.”
Steve Martin reflected, “Carl was my greatest mentor –his wisdom, talent, humor, and energy will never be forgotten, all wrapped in his uncommon decency. By naming its archival work after Carl, the National Comedy Center reminds us that it’s these qualities that matter most when creating great work that touches us, makes us laugh, and stands the test of time.”
Norman Lear, the legendary television creator and close friend of Reiner, shared: “Carl Reiner was all heart and pure joy, and one could not have had a better friend. He brought laughter and soul to my world, and likely yours, for over 70 years. It’s fitting that his archives will be shared and preserved at the National Comedy Center. I cherish every memory of him.”
The Carl Reiner Department of Archives and Preservation is not only a tribute to an individual – it is a lasting commitment to safeguarding the story of comedy itself. As the department continues to grow, it ensures that future generations will have access to the materials, voices, and legacies that have made comedy such a powerful and enduring force in our culture.
Through its archival efforts, the National Comedy Center continues to honor comedy’s past, celebrate its present, and inspire its future.
The National Comedy Center offers a oneofakind educational experience for students in grades 3-12, combining the power of laughter with purposeful learning. Recognized by Congress as the United States’ official cultural institution dedicated to comedy, the Center welcomes school groups throughout the year for field trips that spark curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in a way few museums can.
The Center offers unprecedented opportunities for students of all ages to encounter comedy’s great minds and unique voices in ways that engage, inspire, and educate. As they explore 37,000 square feet of interactive and openplan creative space, students are immersed in multisensory, handson, and personalized learning environments – developed by the Center’s awardwinning curatorial and design team.
The field trip program was recently recognized by Group Tour Magazine as one of the top schooltrip destinations in the Northeast – praised for its unique ability to blend educational enrichment with unforgettable entertainment. This recognition underscores the Center’s growing role in enriching informal learning experiences through cultural storytelling and the performing arts.
Students step into over 50 immersive exhibits that bring the art and history of comedy to life – from early vaudeville performers and goldenage radio to political satire, latenight television, and the viral humor of the digital age. The galleries take students on an interactive journey through comedy history – designed to promote individual discovery, spark curiosity, and celebrate selfexpression. The cuttingedge exhibits offer accessible entry points for learners of all styles and levels. Throughout their personalized experience, students gain a profound appreciation for comedy icons and innovators, as well as for the tremendous influence of humor on how we think, live, and laugh.
Whether exploring how comics use humor to navigate difficult topics, examining the role of parody in shaping public opinion, or discovering how comedy reflects and challenges cultural norms, students gain a new appreciation for comedy as both an art form and a cultural force. Exhibits are thoughtfully aligned with New York State learning standards –making connections to English Language Arts, Social Studies, Media and Visual Literacy, and even STEAM education through the lens of creative development and digital storytelling.
Museum exhibits underscore a broad range of classroom learning objectives – from basic analysis and evaluation of artworks to comprehension of complex social, cultural, and political themes. The experience fosters creativity and dialogue – inviting students to create their own artistic expressions and to practice skills like media literacy, civic engagement, and critical analysis.
Each field trip begins with a short orientation, followed by daylong access to the museum galleries in selfguided groups – with support from trained docents and museum staff. Educators may also opt to include a 15minute themed learning session, offering students the chance to analyze comedic styles, reflect on the influence of humor in society, and explore the building blocks of a comedic character or sketch.
“Students light up when they see a comedian they recognize or discover something new that makes them laugh – and it opens the door to deeper engagement with the material,” said Kelly Olmsted, Educational Programs and Venue Manager at the National Comedy Center. “This is an experience that resonates long after the field trip ends.”
“Laughter lowers barriers and invites students to think differently,” added Megan Eckwahl, National Comedy Center Marketing and Communications Manager. “This experience not only stimulates curiosity and creativity – it gives students tools to express themselves more confidently.”
Teachers consistently report that the trip is both engaging and educational – with students remaining actively involved from start to finish. Many leave with a new understanding of how their favorite comedians – and the craft of comedy itself – have helped shape American culture and history.
The Comedy Center has welcomed school groups from across New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio – as well as visiting youth programs, homeschool networks, and afterschool clubs. With programming thoughtfully designed for different age groups, the museum offers developmentally appropriate content that connects humor with identity, culture, and storytelling in a meaningful way.
The experience also supports socialemotional learning – helping students understand how comedy can foster empathy, address conflict, and build resilience. It’s more than a museum visit – it’s a powerful lesson in voice, creativity, and connection. Along the way, students explore how comedy can support freedom of expression, encourage dialogue, and help build confidence in sharing their own perspectives.
As a nationalscale museum located right here in Western New York, the National Comedy Center offers an extraordinary opportunity for local students to experience worldclass learning and laughter – together. Educators are encouraged to bring their students and discover the impact of a field trip they won’t soon forget.
For more information or to schedule a school field trip, educators can visit comedycenter.org/field-trips or call 716-484-2222.
Journey Gunderson, Executive Director of the National Comedy Center and the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, was named the 2024 Tourism Executive of the Year by the New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association (NYSHTA) as part of its “Stars of the Industry” awards – honoring outstanding leadership and innovation in New York State’s tourism sector.
Gunderson was recognized for her visionary leadership in launching and growing a nationally significant cultural institution that has elevated New York State’s profile as a destination for heritage, entertainment, and the arts. Through her strategic direction, the National Comedy Center has attracted visitors from across the country and around the world, fueled regional tourism, and drawn widespread acclaim for its innovative approach to storytelling, interactivity, and audience engagement.
Gunderson led the National Comedy Center from concept through planning, fundraising, creative development, and national launch. Her leadership was instrumental in the Center’s congressional designation as the United States’ official cultural institution dedicated to comedy. Since opening in 2018, the Center has been named one of TIME magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places” and USA Today’s “Best New Museum in the Country.”
The National Comedy Center offers more than 50 immersive exhibits, guiding visitors on an interactive
journey through the evolution of comedy – from vaudeville and golden-age radio to modern stand-up, sketch and improv, television, and movie comedy. Guests can personalize their experience and interact with various exhibits that explore comedy as an art form and how it has entertained, challenged, and connected us across generations.
Gunderson also oversees the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum – which preserves and celebrates the legacy of the iconic television duo. The museum’s re-created I Love Lucy sets and personal memorabilia continue to draw fans from around the world.
Each year, she produces the acclaimed Lucille Ball Comedy Festival – which has welcomed headliners such as John Mulaney, Taylor Tomlinson, Jerry Seinfeld, Jim Gaffigan, Lily Tomlin, and Joan Rivers – while showcasing emerging talent and honoring comedy legends. The festival attracts thousands of visitors annually and serves as a major driver of tourism and economic impact in Jamestown and the greater Western New York region.
Under Gunderson’s leadership, the National Comedy Center has welcomed visitors from all 50 states and 27 countries – playing a vital role in regional revitalization. Her work has redefined Jamestown’s identity as a cultural destination while drawing national and international attention to Western New York.
Gunderson was previously named to the worldwide museum and attraction authority Blooloop’s list of 50 Museum Influencers – joining a global cohort of innovators shaping the future of museum experiences and public engagement.
She continues to lead strategic initiatives that expand the Center’s reach – curating new exhibits, fostering national partnerships, and championing educational programs that connect visitors with comedy’s deeper cultural and historical significance.
The NYSHTA Tourism Executive of the Year award recognizes Gunderson’s commitment to creating meaningful, memorable visitor experiences, positioning New York State as a national leader in cultural tourism and driving economic growth through the power of the arts.
This summer, the National Comedy Center is inviting young performers to say “yes” to fun, creativity, and confidence-building through its Say Yes! A Kids Improv Workshop—a four-day program designed to introduce students in grades 2–12 to the joy and spontaneity of improvisational comedy.
Running Monday, July 28 through Thursday, July 31, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. each day, the workshop takes place at the National Comedy Center. These high-energy sessions include interactive games, group activities, and plenty of time on stage, all designed to help kids build scenes, characters, and stories on the spot—with no script required.
At the heart of the workshop is the “yes, and” philosophy—a foundational improv principle that encourages participants to listen, accept, and build on each other’s ideas. Through this supportive,
collaborative environment, students develop essential life skills like communication, empathy, teamwork, and quick thinking, all while having an absolute blast.
Whether your child is outgoing and theatrical or more reserved and curious, improv offers a welcoming space to express themselves, take creative risks, and grow in confidence. Over the course of four afternoons, they’ll explore the fundamentals of improvisation—saying “yes” to ideas, creating bold characters, imagining new worlds, and learning to find the humor in every situation.
The workshop is led by Elie Docter, a seasoned performer and improv instructor who brings both professional experience and personal passion to her teaching. Elie studied at top comedy institutions including Upright Citizens Brigade, The Second City, and The PIT, and her credits include interning at Saturday Night Live and working on an HBO series with Mindy Kaling. Comedy runs in her family—her father, Pete Docter, is the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind Up and Inside Out, and serves as Chief Creative Officer at Pixar and a member of the National Comedy Center’s Advisory Board.
Elie brings that same spirit of storytelling, imagination, and playfulness into every workshop. “Improv makes you braver, kinder, and a whole lot sillier,” she says. “I can’t wait to help the next generation of comedy stars find their voice.”
Registration is $100 for all four days, and space is limited. Don’t miss the chance to spark your child’s creativity, confidence, and comedic chops—sign up today and say yes to summer fun! Visit ComedyCenter. org/sayyes for full details and to register.
If you’ve seen a crowd of visitors snapping selfies in front of the National Comedy Center or a motorcoach parked along Main Street, chances are it’s part of a group tour that has traveled hundreds of miles to experience what we have right here in our backyard Jamestown’s reputation as “Comedy’s Hometown” is drawing visitors from across the country – and group
tours are a big part of that story. In 2024, both the National Comedy Center and the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum were honored with the American Bus Association’s prestigious Best of the Best award for excellence in group travel experiences. It’s one of the highest recognitions in the motorcoach and group tourism industry – and Jamestown is one of the few cities nationwide with two attractions on the list.
Each year, thousands of group tour participants choose Jamestown and Chautauqua County for one-, two-, or three-day itineraries. While they come for the museums, they also dine, shop, and explore throughout the city and the county – bringing meaningful tourism dollars into our local economy.
Many itineraries include a guided “LucyTown” bus tour, offering guests an in-depth look at Lucille Ball’s Jamestown roots – from her birthplace and childhood home to the high school she attended and her final resting place at Lake View Cemetery. These tours also showcase the iconic murals of Lucy and Desi that adorn downtown buildings.
A perennial favorite is lunch or dinner in the Tropicana Room, a re-creation of Ricky Ricardo’s nightclub, where visitors enjoy a meal while watching classic I Love Lucy episodes. It’s a uniquely Jamestown experience that keeps tour operators coming back year after year.
In addition to museum admissions and group meals, visitors shop in our gift stores devoted to Lucy, Desi, I Love Lucy, and Desilu, as well as our Comedy Shop – a store devoted to all things funny. They also dine at local restaurants and explore attractions throughout the city and the county. Many groups stay overnight in area hotels or use Jamestown as a base for exploring regional destinations like Chautauqua Lake, the Roger Tory Peterson Institute, the Robert H. Jackson Center, Lake Erie Wine Country, Chautauqua Institution, the Chautauqua Belle steamboat, and more.
While many locals are familiar with the museums, fewer may realize Jamestown’s growing reputation as a premier destination for curated group travel. These visits are carefully coordinated months or even years in advance by the National Comedy Center’s tourism and group sales team, who work directly with travel planners, motorcoach operators, and tourism partners to design packages that showcase the full Jamestown experience.
As word continues to spread, group visitation is expected to keep growing. For residents and business owners, it’s another reminder that the story of comedy that began here with Lucille Ball continues to bring new energy – and new audiences – to our city, one tour bus at a time.
In a celebration that brought together fans from across the country, comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias unveiled his new exhibit at the National Comedy Center on May 8. The centerpiece of the exhibit is Iglesias’ iconic 1957 Volkswagen bus, famously featured in his record-breaking Stadium Fluffy Netflix special at Dodger Stadium.
Now on display in a newly opened lower level gallery at the museum, the vintage VW bus takes center stage as part of an experience that honors Iglesias’ groundbreaking career. The new gallery space expands the museum’s footprint and features rare artifacts from the archives, offering fans a closer look at comedy history
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in the making.
The event, dubbed “Fluffy Fan Day,” offered free admission to the museum and culminated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony with over two thousand fans in attendance. Attendees had the opportunity to meet Iglesias, take a photo with him, and receive a personalized autograph –making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Fluffy fans.
“I’ve got some exciting news – my VW Bus from my record-breaking Stadium Fluffy special is rolling into the National Comedy Center,” Iglesias announced prior to the event. “I’m proud to become part of comedy history
at this amazing museum dedicated to all things funny.”
The bus holds significant sentimental value for Iglesias. It was driven on stage during his historic Dodger Stadium performance, where he became the first comedian to sell out the venue, performing to a crowd of 50,000. Reflecting on the decision to donate the vehicle, Iglesias remarked, “That bus was driven on stage of one of the biggest comedy specials of all time. Millions of people have seen it. So, I thought, ‘Do I just keep it at home and show friends that come over to the house, or put it somewhere people can really appreciate it – in an environment that’s around comedy?’ And this place is incredible.”
This isn’t Iglesias’ first contribution to the National Comedy Center. In 2023, he donated the jersey he wore during the Dodger Stadium performance and appeared live at the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival, where he performed before a sold-out crowd. At the ribbon cutting, Iglesias shared his appreciation for the museum’s mission: “I love the fact that there’s a place like this that dedicates everything to comedy.”
Journey Gunderson, Executive Director of the National Comedy Center, highlighted the significance of the new exhibit. “While we’re known for being one of the most immersive and interactive museum experiences anywhere, the artifacts on display carry the DNA of some of the greatest comedians of all time. Gabriel’s VW Bus, like so many of the artifacts in the museum, isn’t just a display piece – it tells the powerful story of a milestone moment in comedy history.”
The exhibit is now open to the public, offering visitors an intimate look at a pivotal moment in modern comedy history – with Iglesias’ VW bus now on view in the museum’s newly opened lower level gallery, alongside other rare artifacts from the archives.
By Emma Conti-Windle
“ Hello, friends!”
The first two words of Lucille Ball’s iconic “Vitametavegamin Girl” monologue played in my head as I merged on to I-86 to Jamestown. I chuckled. I pictured myself meeting my future coworkers at the National Comedy Center.
On that first drive from Erie, PA, I probably went over Lucy’s monologue in my head 60 times. Would I be performing it? No. Did anyone ask me to memorize it? No. Was I hoping that maybe the spirit of Lucy would bless my first day as a marketing intern at the National Comedy Center if I could prove that I love her and have been reciting this monologue since age 7? Not necessarily, but I was open to it. Instead, on a morning of such anxiety and anticipation, I was doing something I’ve realized I often do when trying to cope with stress. I was trying to make myself laugh. Fitting. Emma, wouldn’t it be so funny if, when you met your boss and colleagues, you said to them, ‘Hello friends! I’m your Vitametavegamin girl!’ They wouldn’t think you were a freak at all and would probably think you were very cool and normal. I laughed again. To myself. In my car. Alone. Very cool
and normal.
I pulled into the parking lot, still chuckling, grabbed my enormous water bottle, and walked past the Comedy Center, to the office building, praying I was going the right way. I had visited the Lucy Desi Museum once before, at the age of 10. Having been raised on I Love Lucy, the day I got to dress up as Lucy, visit the set of her apartment, and have lunch in the Tropicana Club remains one of my favorite days of all time. But I hadn’t been back to Jamestown since, and so I hadn’t yet visited the National Comedy Center — though I knew it by reputation as a place that celebrates and cherishes comedy in all its forms. To me, it was exactly the kind of place that I, as an aspiring television writer and lover of comedy, needed to experience — and would be honored to work for.
One month later, I write this having seen, worked in, and fallen in love with the National Comedy Center, the Lucy Desi Museum, and all they do to preserve and celebrate the heritage of comedy. Each day, I pull into the parking lot and walk past the Center to the office building, proud to play a small part in what I believe is one of the most noble pursuits: bringing joy.
As part of the marketing and communications team, I have written copy for social media posts and newsletters, edited archival video footage, interacted with guests from all over the country, and in several other ways, worked for the effort of drawing more people to experience the magic of what I am lucky to spend a summer learning and getting to know. I learn new things every day about the entertainment industry, the importance of cultural education, the value of a good time, and how to believe in the work I produce as a professional.
Today was especially meaningful, as I had the opportunity to attend a lecture at Chautauqua Institution during Comedy Week, featuring comedian and author Paula Poundstone alongside our Executive Director, Journey Gunderson. After a hilarious, engaging, warm and thought-provoking performance, Poundstone described laughter as “a great thing that nature has given us” and “a coping mechanism.” I thought of my drive on my first day, and Vitametavegamin, and then looked around at my
coworkers and everyone else in the amphitheater who Poundstone had made laugh all morning overwhelmed with gratitude.
How cool is this? How am I here?
The power of comedy goes far beyond jokes told on a stage or the comfort of rewatching a favorite TV show or movie during an anxious moment. Every day, I have the honor of seeing comedy bring people together, helping loved ones reconnect with each other and with themselves. Comedy makes everything feel a little lighter, even the intimidation of internship season.
As an intern at the National Comedy Center, I put my everything into celebrating an art form that never looks just one way, yet means something to everyone. The excitement and pride I feel in being a small part of something so special outweigh any nervousness I felt leading up to this opportunity. I’m reminded that being surrounded by people who care deeply about what they do, and who are amazing at it, will ultimately make me better, no matter where my career or education takes me.
Still, I can’t imagine starting my career anywhere else.
By Maya Swanson
The ring of your alarm in the morning is not usually a sound that brings joy. However, the sound of my alarm at eight in the morning (so early, I know) has not been an inconvenience this summer, but rather an exciting reminder of the day I am about to have working at the National Comedy Center. Sure, some mornings are more challenging to get up than others, but I can confidently express that I wake up with gratitude each morning, knowing this is what I get to call my job.
An internship can seem daunting and nerve-racking to a college student who has not yet experienced a professional workplace in their field of study. However, my supervisors and fellow interns have made this new venture a summer I will never forget. The National Comedy Center offers an enriching workplace environment, and every person I have had the opportunity to work alongside has encouraged me to succeed.
will be published in The Post-Journal, strategized ways to introduce more people to the Comedy Center, and attended several morning lectures at Chautauqua Institution as part of “Comedy Now” week, co-presented by the museum.
Not every day is glamorous; many hours are spent distributing flyers, counting t-shirts, attending meetings (while trying to pick up on corporate lingo), or walking up the block to pick up materials from Quick Solutions. The quiet days allow me to stop and appreciate where I am and how I have grown from this experience. Every day, regardless of the tasks I am assigned, I recognize the value in the opportunity to be here and work alongside my co-workers, who inspire me to be the best version of myself.
In my biased opinion, the Comedy Center offers a unique internship experience that is unlike any other. There are typical job aspects like meetings, deadlines, and stressful tasks, but what other internship has a whoopee cushion bench or Lucille Ball’s iconic polka dot dress on display?
As a Marketing and Communications intern, I cannot fully describe what a day looks like here, as it is constantly evolving. It is essential to be able to pivot and adapt while working here, but that quick pace is something I have learned to thrive in. During my first month, I interviewed docents, wrote this article that
After all that has transpired in the one month since I started, it feels like it’s just the beginning. I am looking forward to the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival (Aug. 7-10), which promises a hands-on experience of a demanding yet rewarding week of work. Knowing that I will be able to contribute to an event that many artists and fans will attend is something I never thought I would be part of.
I grew up in this area, and being able to see an establishment as elaborate as the National Comedy Center, and an event like the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival, bring engagement from all over the world to this community is thrilling. Now, working behind the scenes, I see how much effort goes into the museum, festival, and all the details in between, and I am honored to serve my part in both.
The National Comedy Center and the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum have been honored with the American Bus Association’s (ABA) 2024 Best of the Best award in the Culture category. This prestigious recognition celebrates their excellence in delivering unforgettable experiences for motorcoach and group tour travelers. The American Bus Association –which presents this honor annually – is North America’s leading trade association for motorcoach, tour, and group travel companies, representing nearly 1,000 operators and 2,800 travelindustry partners. Showcased in ABA’s Destinations magazine, the Best of the Best awards spotlight top attractions across North America that set the standard for quality, hospitality, and visitor engagement. The Culture category honors institutions that provide meaningful cultural programming – and the inclusion of both Jamestown museums reflects their growing impact on the group tourism market.
viral memes. Visitors can explore the work of legendary comedians while personalizing the experience based on their sense of humor.
Just a short walk away, the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum celebrates the lives and careers of the iconic duo behind I Love Lucy The museum features exact re-creations of the show’s sets, rare artifacts, and personal memorabilia – providing an intimate look into the couple’s groundbreaking contributions to television and comedy.
Selected from a wide field of nominees, this designation places the National Comedy Center and Lucy Desi Museum among the most respected and sought-after group travel destinations in the country. It’s especially notable that both attractions are located in the same small city – a rare distinction that sets Jamestown apart as a uniquely rich destination for cultural tourism. The National Comedy Center – designated by Congress as the United States’ official cultural institution dedicated to comedy – offers over 50 immersive exhibits that take visitors on an interactive journey through comedy history – from early vaudeville acts to the latest
Both museums have long been favorites among group tour operators, offering tailored experiences that cater to the interests and schedules of motorcoach travelers. Popular activities include LucyTown tours – guided visits to the landmarks of Lucille Ball’s hometown – and shopping in the museums’ gift shops, featuring I Love Lucy and Desilu merchandise as well as comedy-themed souvenirs. The Tropicana Room – a replica of Ricky Ricardo’s nightclub – offers groups a unique dining experience accompanied by classic I Love Lucy episodes. Amenities such as free motorcoach parking, customizable itineraries, and group-friendly dining options further enhance the museums’ appeal.
The dual recognition by the ABA not only showcases the individual strengths of each museum – but also reinforces Jamestown’s reputation as a premier destination for group travel. Together, these two attractions provide visitors with a rich, immersive experience that celebrates comedy’s past, present, and enduring cultural impact.
By Emma Conti-Windle and Maya Swanson
Summer is here in the Jamestown, NY region and that means tens of thousands of visitors are too. Surrounded by stunning Chautauqua Lake, charming Bemus Point, and other gems that shimmer in the sunny months, the Jamestown community is not to be simply passed through, but instead visited, cherished, and remembered. Just as essential to the economic prosperity and significance of the region are two cultural institutions with the mission of celebrating the life and career of Jamestown’s own Lucille Ball and story of comedy itself – the National Comedy Center and the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum.
And while tan lines from days spent with family and friends at Chautauqua Lake will inevitably fade, two residents of the area leave an impact on the Jamestown community and on visitors from around the world that isn’t just skin deep, but instead, goes straight for the funny bone. Don Nelson and Margaret Spence, docents at the National Comedy Center and Lucy Desi Museum,
respectively, have collectively given over 1300 hours of their time to these cultural institutions.
Don is a native of Jamestown, and has lived here his entire life, except for the two years he spent in the Army. After retiring from his career of more than three decades in sales and customer service for SKF, he promised himself he would stay involved in his community. He delivered on that promise when he began volunteering with the Robert H. Jackson Center and Chautauqua County Sports Hall of Fame. Then, in 2018 – not even 30 days after its opening – Don became a volunteer at the National Comedy Center. Now, he volunteers at all three nonprofits on a weekly basis, and at the National Comedy Center, he is one of the first faces guests see when they walk into the lobby.
“My specialty, if you will, is helping people build their profile.” Don, of course, is referring to the Sense of Humor Profiles that all guests create at kiosks upon entry to the Center by selecting their favorite TV
shows, movies, and comedians. Guests’ selections are programmed onto an RFID chip inside a “LaughBand” that they receive upon entry and wear on their wrists. With their customized Humor Profile, guests can “tap” into exhibits throughout the museum and interact with content that matches their tastes and sense of humor.
“So it really personalizes their experience,” said Don. “And it gives me an opportunity to meet people from all over the place – and it’s really fun.”
Don emphasized the importance and value of intergenerational connections that the National Comedy Center offers. A father of three, grandfather of four, and great grandfather of two, he understands the role of laughter in bringing people together and knows that his community feels this impact too.
Margaret, too, is no stranger to the Jamestown area, having spent her summers in Bemus Point since 2004 before making it her permanent home in 2016, is an active member of the Maple Grove School Board and the Chautauqua County School Board, and began volunteering at the National Comedy Center in 2018, before moving a few blocks away to the Lucy Desi Museum. Like Don, Margaret’s presence makes all the difference to guests, but in her particular case, she is recognized for attire that resembles that of a familiar face to Jamestown and the television world.
Margaret spends her Saturdays dressed in a navy and ivory polka dot dress modeled after the signature look of Lucy Ricardo – Ball’s character on I Love Lucy – and celebrates her spirit and legacy by taking photos of guests on the iconic New York Apartment set replica.
A former teacher with a Ph.D. in Curriculum & Supervision, Margaret said she was accustomed to wearing a uniform to school every day. She recalled, “I really couldn’t think of what to wear every Saturday, so I bought ‘The Dress.’”
Of course, visitors recognize it immediately, but Margaret humbly regards her “uniform,” as an opportunity to shed light on the timeless legacy of Lucy and Desi for all who walk through the museum’s doors from near and far, for as she puts it: “this is a piece of history.” She made it clear, however, that the museums and what they celebrate cannot be encapsulated by just a dress. “Lucy is the one that said she didn’t want a big memorial celebrating just her,” Margaret recalled, “but rather a celebration of every comedy artist.”
Don and Margaret emphasized the expansive cultural
significance of both museums and their belief that they should be experienced by as many people as possible.
“There’s something here that’s going to connect with a memory that you have of your childhood, or growing up,” said Don. “You’re going to find a connection.”
Both Don and Margaret are looking ahead to more special moments as docents, and more opportunities to give back to their community, especially as the summer season culminates with the annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival in August.
“It’s a time you could be proud of Jamestown,” Don, referring to the festival, beamed across a table in the Center’s Comedy Karaoke Lounge, “I am proud of Jamestown.”
Chautauqua County would not be as successful as it is today without the support of the community. Community members are the heart and backbone of the county, and because of volunteers like Don Nelson and Margaret Spense, it continues to grow. The National Comedy Center and Lucy Desi Museum are proud to recognize Nelson and Spence for their impact and dedication.
The Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, operated by the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, NY, has announced that it will preserve and showcase the archive of acclaimed writer and producer Bob Carroll, Jr. – part of the legendary creative team behind I Love Lucy, along with his longtime writing partner Madelyn Pugh and producer Jess Oppenheimer. The announcement comes during the anniversary week of Carroll’s passing in 2007, as the museum honors his enduring legacy in television comedy.
The archive – donated by Carroll’s daughter, Christina
Carroll – marks the first time that historians and archivists will be able to explore the inner workings of two of comedy’s most influential minds. The richly annotated scripts and creative papers span more than five decades, tracing Carroll and Pugh’s collaborations from their earliest days in radio to their pioneering work in television.
The collection includes materials from Steve Allen’s radio shows and Lucille Ball’s My Favorite Husband –the precursor to I Love Lucy – as well as multiple drafts
of I Love Lucy scripts. Also represented are Ball’s subsequent series: The Lucy Show, Here’s Lucy, and Life with Lucy, chronicling a remarkable, four-decade creative collaboration between Ball, Carroll, and Pugh.
Additional highlights include scripts for Desilu projects such as The Mothers-In-Law and The Carol Channing Show, the feature film Yours, Mine and Ours, and the Warner Bros./CBS sitcom Alice, starring Linda Lavin. Among the most unique items are personal correspondences and concepts for unaired TV shows – many imagined as vehicles for Lucille Ball, but also conceived for performers like Joan Rivers, Lily Tomlin, Diahann Carroll, Eva Gabor, and Suzanne Pleshette.
“Bob Carroll, Jr. was a key architect of the situation comedy’s narrative structure, character formations, and comedic rhythms,” stated Dr. Laura LaPlaca, Vice President and head of the Carl Reiner Department of Archives and Preservation at the National Comedy Center. “Every television sitcom can trace ancestry to his foundational contributions. Together with Madelyn Pugh, he built a body of work with impacts that resound throughout comedy history.”
Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz were famously vocal in their appreciation of their writing team during a time when such recognition was rare. Upon accepting the Emmy Award for Best Situation Comedy in 1954, Ball said, “It wouldn’t be right to call our writers up here and give it to them, would it? But I wish we could,” with Arnaz using the moment to urge the Television Academy to establish categories specifically for writing.
“There was no one who Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz championed more passionately and more often than her writers – Bob Carroll, Jr. and his writing partner Madelyn Pugh,” stated Journey Gunderson, Executive Director of the National Comedy Center and Lucy Desi Museum. “Our work at the National Comedy Center and Lucy Desi Museum is based on Lucille Ball’s vision to honor and preserve the art form of comedy and rooted in her belief in the importance of comedy’s innovators and creators, like Bob Carroll, Jr. We are honored to preserve his significant artistic legacy for generations to come, here in Lucille Ball’s hometown.”
Christina Carroll reflected on the timing of the announcement and what it would have meant to her father: “The fact that my father ‘left the planet’ (his term for death) eighteen years ago this week perplexes me, but what is assuring is to know so much of his
comedic works are safely protected and appreciated at the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, New York.”
She continued, “At the National Comedy Center, scholars and interested fans now have the opportunity to learn how this comedy writer thought and worked with his career-long partner, Madelyn Pugh. Quite the creative realm was my father’s mind. Hers too. Funny, of course, but also playful, curious and observant. And they knew the value of timing. My father loved to learn and help those coming up. I am certain this opportunity to share his life’s work would fill him with tremendous pride and appreciation as it does me.”
As part of this archival celebration, the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival will feature a special event on Friday, August 8 highlighting Carroll’s legacy – including a conversation with Christina Carroll reflecting on her father’s creative partnership with Madelyn Pugh and his career-long collaboration with Lucille Ball.
With this major archival preservation, the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum furthers its mission of honoring comedy’s pioneers and preserving their creative legacies for future generations.
The National Comedy Center, which was named the “#1 Best New Museum” and the “#2 Best New Attraction” in the country by USA Today, and one of the “World’s Greatest Places” by TIME magazine, offers a immersive and interactive experiences designed for families and children of all ages to enjoy a curation of comedy’s greatest content throughout time, use green screens to get into classic comedy scenes, create their own memes and cartoons, and even try comedy karaoke.
The Center has received rave reviews from the media and visitors for its family-friendly exhibits and was recently named by U.S. News & World Report as a “25 Top Family Weekend Getaway in the U.S.” in a list of destinations that included Walt Disney World and Disneyland.
Western New York Family Magazine called the National Comedy Center a “Must See Destination… recommended for school-age children and up,” and I LOVE NY named the Comedy Center one of the best “family-friend indoor activities” in New York State.
Macaroni KID Erie raved about the Comedy Center’s “kid-friendly laughs,” stating, ”We spent nearly four hours at the museum and still had to drag our 7- and 9-year-olds away!”
In both 2022 and 2023, The Post-Journal and Observer readers voted the National Comedy Center as “Best of the Best” in Chautauqua County for “Family Fun.”
Group Tour Magazine named the Comedy Center a “Top Cultural Institution” in the Northeast, stating, “through state-of-the-art technology, students can create a “sense-of-humor profile” which is then used to personalize their interactions across the rest of the museum. Students will learn not only about comedy history but also how to communicate by varying tone, genre, and style.”
Here we’ve highlighted some of the most popular, “must see” interactive experiences for kids and teens.
Explore how iconic comedy props – the anvil, the
rubber chicken, “Groucho” glasses, whoopie cushion, the seltzer bottle, and many more – have been used throughout comedy history on our interactive tables, which burst to life with video clips from classic films, TV shows and cartoons featuring those props.
Put yourself and your friends and family in classic TV shows and movies including the iconic I Love Lucy chocolate factory scene, and favorite scenes from Dumb and Dumber, Anchorman, Saturday Night Live, plus classic pie fights, movie car crash scenes and more.
It’s your turn to take the stage as you perform a classic comedy routine from some of the greatest stand-up comedians of all time in front of your family and friends – or go freestyle and deliver your favorite jokes and see if you can get the audience laughing and clapping . If the spotlight is not your thing, cheer on your friends and family while enjoying a snack and beverage in our Karaoke lounge.
Draw a Digital Cartoon on Our Interactive
Try your hand at cartooning by following the instructions on the touchscreen monitor. Have fun creating your own characters and cartoon panels, which will be sent to you via email after your visit.
Compete with friends and family to see who can make each other laugh. Microsoft AI facial recognition technology detects whether you smiled or laughed when a joke is delivered by your opponent. If you manage not to laugh, you’ll score the point.
Become a “Foley” artist by adding your own sound effects to a Three Stooges clip or the iconic campfire scene from Blazing Saddles. Do you have what it takes to fill these scenes with sounds that get the biggest laughs?
Have fun as we show you how to create your own Meme and send it to you so you can share it with friends and family – maybe your Meme will be the next to go viral!
