Robert Lariviere

Local comedians honor Richard Pryor
Beach and Bay Press - Jan. 12, 2006
by Ken Westfall



A group of San Diego-based comedians honored legendary comic, Richard Pryor, Thursday night at The Comedy Store by holding a fundraiser to fight Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Pryor, most notably known for his many stand-up performances and movies with friend, Gene Wilder, died from a heart attack on Dec. 10 last year. In 1986, Pryor was diagnosed with MS and though he continued to work throughout the 90's, the disease slowed him dramatically.

"When he died, I decided to hold a benefit in his name and donate the money to fighting (multiple sclerosis). I didn't know when or where I would hold the event, but I knew all my friends would be on board," said Joe Charles, local comic and show promoter.

"His influence on comedy and, me, personally, is huge. He was the first person I saw that made me want to make other people laugh," said Charles.
Other performers that night included Tim Palmer, Matt Knost, Joe King, Robert Lariviere and Dat Phan, winner of NBC's Last Comic Standing.

"Richard Pryor was one of the first to truly speak his mind as a stand-up comedian and was a fellow minority that pioneered his way through the entertainment business staying true to himself, his hardships in life, and his roots. He will always continue to inspire me," said Phan.

"I was honored to be a part of the tribute to Richard Pryor. It gave us a chance to show respect to someone who sacrificed so much to the art of comedy. We can only hope that our comedy can make him proud when he looks down upon us fellow comedians," he added.

Phan's sentiments were shared by the other performers.

"Getting on stage any time is great, but when your efforts are going to a good cause like this, your performance goes up to another level," said Lariviere. "(Pryor) was a genius. I think he would be happy with what we're doing tonight."

The sold-out crowd would agree.

"These guys were great. I've never been to a show before and this was a lot of fun," said Mesa College student Jenny McCoy. "I'll be back to support any benefit show they have."

"I come out to watch these guys all the time. It's always a good show," said Jeff Neumann, owner of San Diego Card and Toy collectibles. "I was glad to donate to such a cause."

All the comics worked for free for the evening and raised almost $200 for the event. Proceeds for the show were donated directly to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society - Southern California Chapter.

To donate, or learn more about MS and its devastating effects, visit www.nationalmssociety.org.

To learn more about the San Diego comedy scene check out www.standupsandiego.com and www.standupcomedy.tv.
For more information about The Comedy Store, visit www.thecomedystore.com or call 858-454-9176.
- The Beach and Bay Press

The World Famous Comedy Store
San Diego Super Guide - June 2005
by Kristol Boe

Some of the greatest comedians of our time have graced The Comedy Store stage including such favorites as Robin Williams, Jim Carrey, Chris Tucker and David Letterman. In fact, most of them began humbly on these stages long before they were household names.

The Comedy Store itself was put together by Sammy and Mitzi Shore (the parents of comedian Pauly Shore) and has withstood time to still produce great acts on stage and great memories for the audience.

Having only two locations, San Diego is lucky enough to house one of the World Famous Comedy Stores in La Jolla. It is an absolute must see for San Diego residents and visitors.

Located at 916 Pearl Street in the heart of upscale suburbia, the night club is a wild watering hole compared to its surroundings. Shows are moderately priced ranging from under $10 on selected weekdays up to $20 for bigger name acts on the weekends. The Comedy Store has a fully-stocked bar and designates a two-drink minimum.

The Store itself often showcases big name and big laugh acts from The Tonight Show, Comedy Central and Mad TV; yet one of the greatest things about The Store is catching shows which feature up and coming comedians, usually San Diego locals. Wednesdays and Thursdays usually feature amateur performers, but it is best to call in advanced to check the lineup.

Such local comedians that are worth checking out are Robert Lariviere and Joe Charles. Both reside in Pacific Beach, their comfortable and confident stage presence, not to mention hilarious material, make them locals comedians destined for bigger things.

Their material, often revolving around their drunken fiascos, never fails to get the crowd rolling.

Check with The Comedy Store staff exact dates of when Joe and Robert will be performing
- The Super Guide