Philadelphia Comedy Festival

Wed.-Sun., Nov. 4-8, various times, $15-$25, Laff House, 221 South St., 215-440-4242, laffhouse.com.

by Kristen Humbert

[ comedy ]

A testament to success is surely staying power, and the Laff House has been sitting witty for more than 20 years. Known as the Funny Bone, Catch a Rising Star and David Brenner's Laugh House before its current incarnation, the comedy venue has nurtured many budding careers. Kevin Hart, one such progeny, encouraged owner Rod Millwood to create Laff's first-ever comedy festival. "It's time people who know about this place," says Millwood, "celebrate its history." In addition to showcasing brand-name comics like Paul Mooney, Michael Blackson and Teddy Carpenter, the fest will also hold a "New Faces of Comedy" competition, whose winner will receive a trip to Jamaica. Yeah mon!