The local
comedy circuit has always had its ups and downs, usually depending on the clubs
and whether they've been active or not. But recent years have not only surged
but have blossomed into a full-fledged scene.
--- At the front of that movement is Wiseguys. Starting out of a
stripmall by the E Center, the club became a hotspot for local and national
comics to make their stay, and has been the stepping stone stage for many
locals to move up into the national ranks. I got a chance to chat with owner
Keith Stubbs about the club and its history, as well as his thoughts on local
comedy. All with some snapshots of the new Wiseguys location over at
Keith Stubbs
http://www.wiseguyscomedy.com/
Gavin: Hey
Keith, first off, tell us a little bit about yourself.
Keith: I was born and raised in
Gavin: How did you first get involved with comedy, and who were some of
your favorites growing up?
Keith: I started doing stand-up in
Gavin: What would you say your career was like before you opened up
Wiseguys?
Keith: I was a full time comic working the road. I was working comedy
clubs, one-nighters, bars, sports bars and theaters. You name it I did it. I
was working 45 or more weeks a year on the road while living in So Cal.
Gavin: Where did the idea come from to start up a comedy club?
Keith: I grew tired of working the road full time. I had performed at
many different types on comedy venues and decided that I wanted to run a club
my way. I would always have a place to perform.
Gavin: Why did you choose
Keith: Because I could get a lease. Eight years ago no one had ever
heard of Wiseguys and it was a tough sell.
Gavin: What was it like getting set up, and how was that first month open?
Keith: The first month was brutal. The first couple of years were scary.
I was beginning to wonder why I jumped in like I did.
Gavin: Did you think it would catch on as quickly as it did, or did you
expect more of an uphill climb before success?
Keith: It was an uphill climb. It is a constant challenge keeping the
name 'Wiseguys" out there and to book the right comics at the right time.
Gavin: What brought on the decision to open up a second place in
Keith: I live in
Gavin: Do you find it easier or difficult running multiple places?
Keith: It is obviously more of a challenge. The secret seems to be
having good people who 'get it' working with you.
Gavin: How did the decision come about to open up a new one at
Keith: I have always wanted a downtown SLC location. There is nothing
like the city. I had been looking around for a while and Trolley seemed like
the best fit. I like older, historic buildings.
Gavin: Why did you go a partnership with Poundcakes instead of doing your
own thing?
Keith: I own Poundcake's and Wiseguys. There are no partners. Just me.
Win or lose. I am doing my own thing. Poundcake's is the name of the restaurant
downstairs and
Gavin: Was the new construction and updates an influence in the decision,
or is that just icing on the cake for the new spot?
Keith: I like the historic nature of Trolley.
Gavin: How have things gone so far since opening up?
Keith: Busy on show nights and not so busy during the days.
Gavin: A little local, what are your thoughts on the local comedy circuit,
both good and bad?
Keith: The scene is good. Comedy is more difficult that it seems. Many
people try comedy but to succeed at a level where you can support yourself is
an entirely different thing.
Gavin: Putting you on the spot a little, who would you say are some of the
top local comics?
Keith: Comedy is very subjective. I don't want to tick off any comics. I
will pass on that one. I will say that many talented comics got their start at
Wiseguys.
Gavin: Being a business owner, how has the local economy affected you?
Keith: The economy has hurt business no doubt. Hopefully, it will turn
around soon.
Gavin: How is it for you competing with venues, clubs and bars on a nightly
basis?
Keith: And do you feel comedy clubs are thriving or struggling more in
Gavin: What can we expect from you and the clubs the rest of the year?
Keith: Bigger names, better shows.
Gavin: Aside from the obvious, is there anything you'd like to plug or
promote?
Keith: Check out the continually improving website for new and exciting shows!