Written by Tanya Terry, with photos courtesy of JeCorey Hawkins
In an interview with The Flint Courier News, JeCorey Hawkins, producer and comedian, excitedly discussed plans for a comedy and music festival scheduled for August 20 to 23 in the Flint area.
The festival will feature approximately 40 comedians from around the world as well as local favorites, combined with various musical acts.
Hawkins explained that the idea to combine comedy and music came from recognizing the healthy and growing music scene in the area, creating a unique event experience different from typical comedy-only or music-only festivals. He emphasized the importance of both comedy and music as essential to human connection.
“Laughing has always been something that’s been very important – just kind of like foundational to my life,” said Hawkins. “…I feel like once you laugh, it’s so much easier to deal with things… And then also, I feel like in a communal standpoint, laughing with people. It kind of just creates a bond and energy – because once you share a laugh with someone, you’re really sharing like a very human space with them…You’re not trying to laugh…It’s a natural response. Like it’s just something that’s a reaction. So, to me, I would say that reaction together, it’s just really cool. So, for so many reasons, comedy is super important. We need laughter. We need to talk about things that are happening. And I feel like if we can do that at the same time, then that’s all the better.”
To Hawkins, music gives rhythm to life and is an energy connector.
“When you’re watching a live performance with someone, you are very present in that moment, and that present energy is very powerful,” said Hawkins. “It’s very good. Music is kind of a shared language. Even if we don’t always understand all of the music, or it might not be completely relatable situation, it’s still something that we can connect to, and we enjoy how it sounds to our ear. ”
Featured comedians for the upcoming festival include RJ Leery, a Flint native and comedian with over ten years of experience and co-producer of the event; Josh Adams, who has performed on Showtime at the Apollo, on BET and on an HBO program featuring the Detroit Lions; and Charlie Mac from Texas, who appeared on the Kill Tony stand-up comedy podcast.
Local comedians include Cheesestixxs and Big Juicy.
Musical acts will range from R&B, rap and hip-hop to DJ performances, featuring artists such as Jeff Skigh and Shelly T.
The festival will take place at multiple venues including 810 Primes, Churchill’s, Brush Alley Skate Shop, Queen’s Provision, Diablo’s Comedy Lounge and New Standard Theater, with food vendors available at various locations. Tickets will be on sale soon, and sponsorship opportunities are available.
For information, people can call or text 810-620-3191 or 810-691-3674.
