Yellowknife is set to become a hub for comedy and storytelling this February, as CBC’s Laugh Out Loud program brings host Ali Hassan to the Northwest Territories for a workshop and live recording. The free workshop, scheduled for Monday, February 23rd at the Yellowknife Public Library, aims to explore the intersection of humor and narrative, offering insights for both aspiring and established comedians and storytellers. This event is part of a larger initiative to bring engaging content and creative opportunities to northern communities.
The workshop will commence with a roundtable discussion featuring Hassan alongside established comedians and storytellers from across the North and beyond. Participants will delve into topics such as navigating the early stages of a comedy career, the powerful relationship between comedy and storytelling, and the role of laughter in navigating challenging times. Following the discussion, Hassan will lead a hands-on joke writing workshop, covering the fundamentals of joke structure, setup, punchlines, and routine building. The session will conclude with a networking opportunity, providing attendees a chance to connect with Hassan and fellow creatives over pizza.
The event builds anticipation for a live recording of Laugh Out Loud with Ali Hassan, slated for the following evening, February 24th, at the Chateau Nova Hotel. Tickets for the live recording are available for purchase here. The recording will feature a lineup of local comedic talent, showcasing the vibrant arts scene of the Northwest Territories.
Northern Comedians Take the Stage
The Laugh Out Loud live recording will spotlight four Northwest Territories comedians: Quincy Thomas, Mason Mantla, Dez Loreen, and Skye Plowman. Each artist brings a unique perspective and style to the stage, reflecting the diverse experiences and voices of the region. Their inclusion in the lineup underscores CBC’s commitment to fostering local talent and providing a platform for northern artists.
Quincy Thomas, originally from Yellowknife but now based in Vancouver, has already gained recognition for his comedic perform, including appearances on CBC’s The Debaters. He recently headlined a comedy reveal at The Underground in Yellowknife this past summer. Mason Mantla, a writer, filmmaker, and comedian from Behchokǫ̀, blends multiple artistic disciplines in his work. In 2018, he created a short documentary for CBC about artist Casey Koyczan, and in 2019, his short film Fireweed was screened at the Reykjavik International Film Festival. Mantla’s literary work has also been recognized, with his short story “Reverse Don’t Work” recently published in The Malahat Review.
Dez Loreen, who describes himself as the “media mogul of the Arctic,” is a multi-faceted creative based in Inuvik. Beyond his role as a reporter for CBC North covering the Mackenzie and Beaufort Delta regions, Loreen is a filmmaker, actor, and the founder of Totally Arctic Wrestling. Skye Plowman, a comedian currently residing in Yellowknife, has become a familiar face in the local comedy scene, performing at events such as the Arctic Comedy Festival and recording material with Just For Laughs Originals. She has also brought laughter to audiences at the Snowcastle, Yellowknife Pride, and fundraising events for the NWT SPCA.
A Workshop Focused on Craft and Connection
The February 23rd workshop at the Yellowknife Public Library isn’t simply about learning to tell jokes; it’s about understanding the power of storytelling and how comedy can be a vehicle for connection and resilience. The event aims to provide practical tools and insights for aspiring comedians, while also fostering a sense of community among creatives in the North. By bringing together established and emerging voices, the workshop hopes to inspire a new generation of storytellers and comedians in the region.
The focus on the role of culture in shaping stories is particularly relevant in the context of the Northwest Territories, a region with a rich and diverse Indigenous heritage. Exploring how cultural perspectives influence comedic styles and storytelling techniques will be a key element of the roundtable discussion. Attendees can expect a dynamic and engaging session that blends practical instruction with thoughtful conversation.
The Laugh Out Loud events represent a significant investment in the arts and culture of the Northwest Territories. By providing opportunities for local artists to showcase their talent and connect with a wider audience, CBC is helping to strengthen the creative ecosystem of the region. The workshop and live recording are expected to draw a diverse crowd, bringing together comedy fans, aspiring artists, and community members from across Yellowknife and beyond.
Following the live recording at the Chateau Nova Hotel, CBC will likely release details regarding where and when the episode will be available to stream. Those interested in staying updated on future Laugh Out Loud events and initiatives are encouraged to visit the CBC website and follow their social media channels. The success of these events could pave the way for further collaborations and creative programming in the North.
The workshop and live recording offer a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant comedy scene of the Northwest Territories and celebrate the talent of its local artists. With a focus on both craft and connection, these events promise to be a memorable experience for all involved.
