Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – July 30, 2024 – In any burgeoning city such as Jonesboro, there are hallmark attractions in the field of performing arts. From organized community plays at the theater, to free-for-all karaoke jams at the club, there is an entertainment itch that needs a good scratch.

In May of 2013 Allison McArthur, Andrew Tubbs, Wesley Geaslin, Drew Brown & Judd Williams started scratching that itch by organizing comedy shows in the area. Soon the scratch turned into knee slapping and then out right gut busting. Funny bones were tickled and Jonesboro gained a much-needed comedy outfit that, as Allison puts it, had one mission: “Develop a local comedy scene that is supportive and encourages comics to practice their craft and get better.”

This small group of comedians initially started performing monthly open mic sessions at local venues downtown, which continued all the way up until the pandemic. After restrictions were lifted in 2021 and venues opened back up, Allison McArthur, who had begun performing in Memphis, reached out to Andrew Tubbs to host a regularly scheduled paid comedy event at Cregeen’s Irish Pub in downtown Jonesboro and NEA Comedians was born.

They first showcased 6 professional comedians from Memphis, TN. From there, the organization continued to book shows at multiple venues, consistently bringing quality talent to our city. The Rec Room coffee bar has become a home for NEA Comedians monthly lineups, which has featured over 20 local performers and at least a dozen acts from out of town. Allison, the host of the monthly showcase, stated, “The Rec Room show is well known in Memphis and the Mid-south as one of the best comedy rooms in the area.” After 10 years in multiple venues, this comedy troupe is still filling rooms with laughter and engaging audiences and new performers along the way.

Do you have the courage to tell your jokes to a crowd of people? Are you interested in becoming part of the organization as a featured act?

If so, visit NEA Comedians on Facebook or Instagram and look for their next open mic. These events are supportive and specifically designed for newcomers and novices. Fair warning, these comedy shows can display offensive language and subject matter. Most content is meant for adults.

Work on your bit or just come out for a good laugh; either way NEA Comedians are ready for the punch line!