A nationally-acclaimed comedian will be telling his jokes Wednesday at Jefferson City's newest performance and event venue.
Avenue HQ, located at 621 E. Capitol Ave., will host Dan Chopin, a St. Louis-based comedian whose been featured on A&E's "Evening at the Improv," MTV's "Half-Hour Comedy Hour," Showtime's "Comedy Club Network" and PBS's "Comedy Tonight." Now, he brings his act to comedy clubs, cruise ships, casinos and corporate events throughout the U.S.
Brent Terhune will be another feature comedian, opening for Chopin. Terhune is a writer for the nationally-syndicated "Bob & Tom Show." Comedians Patrick Mahon and Joshua Harris will kick off the show, also acting as openers.
Quinten Rice, co-owner of Avenue HQ with Holly Stitt, said opening the space to public events is a way to bring people together through art.
"We also want to be a great addition to the downtown area and the historic Capitol Avenue," Rice said. "Showcasing the art of comedy for our first public event is a wonderful way for us to bring national headlining comedians to Jefferson City for the first time. You don't have to go too far for more entertainment now."
He said he's excited to see the audience socializing, smiling and laughing, while watching Avenue HQ open and operating. Leaving the event Wednesday night, Rice said he wants patrons knowing there's a new spot for arts and entertainment.
"I hope people walk away with a new friend or two and a good story or a joke to tell at work the next day," Rice said. "I hope they also walk away uplifted, satisfied and wanting more."
Well-known comedians Greg Morton and Tim Young are upcoming acts at Avenue HQ. They will hit the stage on April 27 and May 11, respectively. While bringing in national acts, Rice said it's important for Avenue HQ to showcase local talent.
"Our goal is to promote art and create a platform to showcase it on many different levels," he said. "I hope this exposure brings awareness and creates more support for the arts in Central Missouri. We have so much nationally recognized talent in the area that doesn't get the local support they deserve. Avenue HQ helps fill the gaps. Artist also didn't have a place to showcase the talent locally. We help to solve that problem."