Lanc Out Loud - Our Story
Led by Rubi Nicholas, comedian and former "Funniest Mom in America" on Nick at Nite, the vision for the comedy club is not only to bring an untapped art form to downtown, but ultimately to provide a platform where new comics can develop their voices.
Rubi Nicholas was a 36 year old mom, and when she first got on stage had a background as an Occupational Therapist as well as a later career in corporate america, working at a Fortune 500 health insurance company after earning her MBA.
Having been raised Pakistani and Muslim, Nicholas had been accustomed to being told that she should "be quiet" and remain in the background. When she began her career as a comic, for the first time, her voice was amplified and she was asked to step forward.
This sparked a succession of events that would eventually lead Nicholas to embrace her voice on stage and gain a newfound confidence and strength. That metamorphosis, in her midlife, cemented for her the belief that all people who developed the ability to laugh at their pain would ultimately heal and fully realize their potential.
With her eyes on giving to others what she experienced, the gift of comedy, Nicholas developed a coaching workshop. Emphasizing relatability among her students, allowed people from varied backgrounds to use the tools of stand up comedy to tell their stories.
Beginning in 2014, Nicholas began producing professional shows throughout Lancaster City, from the Ware Center, to Tellus360 to her latest project at 551 West, her quality shows have generated a loyal following and inspired her to pursue creating a dedicated space for Stand Up and Improv comedy.
Today, she has assembled a strategy team that includes 2 MBAs, professionals in the arts and marketing industries as well as millenial strategists to maintain our focus on the next generation of storytellers, comics and improvisers.
While the space is currently under construction, we still need your support to fully create the comedy experience we know would make Lancaster City proud. The team has a design plan that includes a VIP seating area with $25, and is committed to alternate seating for all ages, as well as a $10 ticket price (less than a movie) to encourage those from all demographics to come.
The outdoor sign for the club alone will cost $10-12,000, and we are looking forward to having the very BEST of everything for our customers to experience. Our overall fundraising goal, inclusive of private funding and loans is $125,000. Contact Rubi@Lancoutloud.com if you are interested in contributing as a large private investor.
If you attend a live giving event, you can look forward to comedy, T-Shirt and chochki giveaways, and a night you will never forget!
If you can't contribute - please share this campaign with your friends and family and on social media. Thank you so much for taking the time to look at our super duper worthwhile campaign!!