Joke Around and Find Out contest aims to open doors for new Indigenous comedians

The exciting conclusion of a Manitoba-wide Indigenous stand-up comedy contest is set to take place on Thursday at a Winnipeg venue. Club Happenings will be hosting the finals for “Joke Around and Find Out,” a competition aimed at showcasing new First Nations, Inuit, and Métis comedians who are stepping onto the stage for the first or second time.

Eight talented individuals will be competing for the coveted $2,000 grand prize, along with paintings, trophies, and gift cards for other finalists. The organizers of the contest, including Jeff Gobeil, have emphasized the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself while delivering comedic acts. Gobeil, a member of Poplar River First Nation and a comedian himself for three years, has partnered with fellow comedian Lyle Wood from St. Theresa Point First Nation to bring this event to life.

The community support for the contest has been overwhelming, with St. Theresa Point providing financial backing and a $2,000 grand prize for the winner, with the condition that part of the contest be held on reserve. The first round took place in St. Theresa Point, where 12 comedians signed up and 9 made it to the stage, showcasing the wealth of talent within the Indigenous community.

Subsequent shows in Winnipeg featured newcomers like Denny Frehley from Roseau River First Nation and Cilla Bean from Peguis First Nation, both actors looking to explore the world of stand-up comedy. While Frehley acknowledged the challenges of his first performance and the need to fine-tune his act, Bean found the experience of stand-up comedy to be both intimidating and exhilarating.

The healing power of laughter has been a central theme throughout the contest, with Gobeil noting that comedy not only allows individuals to share their stories but also provides a sense of healing and community. The final evening of the contest will be documented by a photographer and video crew, with plans already in motion to run the contest again next year.

As the Indigenous stand-up comedy scene continues to grow and thrive in Manitoba, events like “Joke Around and Find Out” are essential in providing a platform for emerging talent to shine and connect with audiences in a meaningful way. The laughter and camaraderie shared during these shows are a testament to the resilience and creativity of Indigenous performers, who use humor as a tool for self-expression and empowerment.