‘Ninety minutes worth of laughter’

MoorArts’ annual comedy night will bring laughter to the Community House on Thursday, April 16.

This year’s event will feature comedians Chris Coccia, Tommy Highland and Bill Chiang.

Coccia’s comedy is a mix of funny material and in-the-moment engagement. With more than 25 years performing full-time as a stand-up, he has honed his ability to engage with a crowd and entertain a variety of audiences, from late- night shows in Vegas to early-morning teambuilding breakfasts.

Outside of his headline appearances, Coccia has served as the opening act for performers such as Jon Lovitz, Norm Macdonald and Chaka Kahn.

Described as a true blue-collar guy, Highland takes his strange life experiences and combines it all with a bizarre sense of humor that comes at the audience with voices, characters and improvisation. Find him on YouTube as America’s Funniest Handyman and learn DIY skills from someone who will keep you laughing.

An immigrant with a traditional Asian background, Chiang didn’t think stand-up comedy was something he would do. Out of curiosity, he tried one night and since then, has quickly become a regular in clubs across the East Coast. Chiang’s source for comedy comes from the absurdity and silliness of everyday life. He’s a comedy competition winner in New York City, has been featured on Comcast On-Demand and has played in historic comedy venues such as the New York Comedy Club, The Comic Strip, Catch a Rising Star and the Comedy Cabaret in Philadelphia.

“It’ll be 90 minutes worth of laughter,” promised MoorArts President Andrea Seuren of comedy night. ” … Laughter is a way to get through your day. On any given day, if you have a bad day, laughter is a cure-all for it.”

Doors will open at 7 p.m.; the show starts at 7:30. To purchase tickets or for more information on MoorArts, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the fine and performing arts in the community and schools, visit www.moorarts.org.