By: Addison Parr, Reporter
OMAHA, Neb. – After a long intermission due to the pandemic, audiences are squeezing into the small theater in downtown Omaha, ready to spend an evening laughing.
The Backline comedy theater prides themselves on creating a safe space where comics can get the opportunity to practice performing, try new material, and perfect their skills.
“I mean, I don’t think anybody got into comedy to be alone behind their computer so being in front of an audience again is just energizing, it feels really exciting,” Cameron Logsdon, an Omaha comedian, said.
The Backline currently offers multiple chances a to watch performances, with shows 4 times a week. But during the pandemic, they were limited to online performance.
The live standup industry has struggled during the pandemic, with venues mostly shut, or having to enforce restrictions on audience numbers. According to a survey from the Live Comedy Association, almost half of all comedy workers were considering leaving the industry during the pandemic.
Omaha Comedian, David Terrell Green, says he left the comedy scene during the pandemic but came back to feel inspired by his audience.
“Every artist regardless of what it is that you do, needs a level of inspiration and you need people around you to feed you that energy,” Green said.
The Backline encourages anyone interested in trying comedy to come sign up for a class or an open mic. Whether you’re interested in improv, sketches, or stand up, you can have an opportunity to step in to the spotlight.
You can see the Backline in action at their improv competition this Friday, March 25th at 7pm.
