Fundraiser for Capone at Comedy In Harlem
Born as Derrick Lee and straight out of the Bronx, NY, he has one of the most exciting careers in comedy. A hustler who trades in his ruggish-thuggish ways to become a successful entrepreneur and later metamorphosis the world of comedy as Capone. Capone didn’t ignore the warning signs that he needed to cease the hustle. His first and last signs came in 1991 after receiving a nine-month sentence. It was then that the soon-to-be notorious funnyman knew the street life wasn’t his calling. “Jail was a blessing for me. At the rate I was going I’d either be spending a whole lot of time there or end up dead”, recalls the comedian of his spiraling street career. With a second chance, Capone left the street life and became a home attendant for the mentally challenged. “It may seem a little far fetched that I chose a Samaritan job, but I’ve always been interested in helping people, especially those who are unable do for themselves”. Although his salary was a far cry from his previous income, he valued his freedom enough to stay on a legitimate path and supplement his wages by moonlighting as a barber on the weekends. It was at his second job, that he began to hone his comedic skills by engaging in intense snap sessions with co-workers. “I was always cracking jokes on the customers or my co-workers so the barber shop served as a sort of comedy haven for me.” It wasn’t until 1992, when a promoter friend of Capone’s challenged him to take his innate talent off the streets and to the stage that his comedy career was launched. “My first show was at Columbia University,” says the comedic veteran of his meager beginnings and who credits his late mother for his comedic sense. “I won the amateur contest and I was invited to perform with the heavy hitters.” Performing with professionals such as Mike Epps, Tracey Morgan and Talent, opened up many doors for the boisterous budding comedian. He immediately ditched his day job after he’d saved his earnings to open his first barbershop. “It was always one of my dreams to have my own barber shop and work for myself.”
Today, the funnyman is the C.E.O. of D.D.L. Enterprises (his initials). He teaches the business of comedy one day per week, at no charge, to up and coming comedians. In addition to his acute business savvy, Capone’s ability to adapt to any audience has made him a mainstay in the comedy arena. He has performed at a variety of venues such as New York’s Caroline’s Comedy Club, Uptown Comedy Club, Boston Comedy Club (noting just a few) and many college Universities. He has toured with N.Y. Kings of Comedy, Russell Simmons Def Comedy Jam in England and Shaquille O’Neal’s All Star Comedy Jam in 2011 and 2012. It is this same universal comedic flair that helped Capone nab his gig as the host of Harlem’s legendary Amateur Night at the Apollo Theatre as well as the majority of the theaters scheduled concerts, “transforming it into a comedic vision”, says the comedian. With his witty style of comedy, the content of his material derives from personal experiences, relationships, children, society, work and ethnicity, admits Capone. Capone notably talented in acting as well, was the main actor for New York Times bestselling author Zane’s HBO film production of her book Sex Chronicles. It’s obvious that he has traveled his path and walked toward the light almost stealthily – when the world of comedy least anticipated his arrival. But he’s here now! Sitting stoically upon his comedic throne, capitalizing on his continued success as he embraces every opportunity to tickle the next funny bone.
Toni Byrd
She's was born in New York, and raised in Queensbridge Long Island City. At a young age, it was obvious that Toni was quick, witty, and naturally funny. She graduated from Bronx Community College and has worked with David Dinkins on his campaign. Toni is an activist and advocates for women, LGBT and people of color everywhere. Toni performed in several venues, leaving her mark and signatures at legendary spaces such as The Apollo, Carolines on Broadway, Edge Lounge NJ, Laffaholics, The Street Factory in New Brunswick NJ, Salsa, Laugh Out Loud Night at the Roxy, Comedy Punch Line Detroit , Soul Comedy Philly, Virginia Beach Funny Bone, and many more. She has worked beside some of the funniest comedians like Sommore, Luenell, and Comedian Capone. She looks up to and thanks comedians like Paul Mooney for paving the way for her and other upcoming comedians.
Kenny Woo
Kenny Woo is a Harlem native who uses comedy to describe his journey growing up in the city. From stories about past relationships to his hilarious delivery of how many times he was caught by the law, Kenny is a true veteran of the stage. You can also catch Kenny Woo on tour with Team Capone throughout the nation and overseas.
Smokey Suarez
Smokey Suarez is one of the top “urban” as well as “mainstream” comedies in America. To the audience he is a raw, authentic, uncensored comedic beast. With his raspy weathered voice and incisive wit, Smokey Suarez is able to blend impeccable comedic timing, clever punchlines, and bold physical comedy into one complete sensational standup routine. To put it short, Smokey is a comedic heavyweight.
Born and raised in the gritty Harlem streets, Smokey evolved into an uncompromisingly bold standup comedian. Let it be known, few can match his skillful wordplay and comedic dexterity. Yet his raw comedic ability never undermines his intelligence. Smokey’s comedy remains poignant, relevant, smart, along with being gut-bustingly funny. And Hollywood has taken notice.His natural comical gifts on stage have the eye of the best in the entertainment industry. Smokey has been cast in starring roles for the acclaimed Rocafella films, such as “Paper Soldiers”, Death of The Dynasty”, and “State Property 2”.
Join us for a very special night of laughter, love, and community as Comedy In Harlem hosts a Fundraiser for Capone on Thursday, July 9th.
Hosted by the hilarious Smokey Suarez, the evening features performances by Brandon Reeves, Tony Byrd, Kenny Woo, plus many more comedians coming together to support one of comedy's own. Expect an unforgettable night filled with big laughs, surprise guests, and the kind of Harlem energy that makes Comedy In Harlem one of New York City's favorite destinations for live entertainment.
Whether you've known Capone for years or simply want to support the comedy community, this is your chance to enjoy an incredible show while giving back to someone who has brought laughter to so many.
đź“Ť Comedy In Harlem
750A Saint Nicholas Avenue
New York, NY 10031
🚪 Doors Open: 7:00 PM
🎤 Showtime: 8:00 PM
🎟 Admission: $20..... ALL TICKET MONEY IS BEING DONATED TO CAPONE
🍽 $18 Food & Drink Minimum Per Person
Come laugh, show your support, and help make this a memorable night for Capone. Harlem always takes care of its own—and this is one show you won't want to miss.
Tickets are non-refundable.
All shows are limited to ages 21 and over
Individual comedian appearances are subject to change without notice
If you arrive 30 minutes past show time, we can not guarantee your seat will be reserved.
Groups of 7+ please email info@comedyinharlem.com.
Seating will be assigned based on on-time check-in by groups as purchased.
We cannot guarantee larger parties will be seated together or that tickets purchased separately can be combined at larger tables.
Walk up cover is higher than the online presale price.
Additional health and safety protocols may apply based on updated state guidelines.
NY State Tax (8.875%)
SALES ARE FINAL
Born as Derrick Lee and straight out of the Bronx, NY, he has one of the most exciting careers in comedy. A hustler who trades in his ruggish-thuggish ways to become a successful entrepreneur and later metamorphosis the world of comedy as Capone. Capone didn’t ignore the warning signs that he needed to cease the hustle. His first and last signs came in 1991 after receiving a nine-month sentence. It was then that the soon-to-be notorious funnyman knew the street life wasn’t his calling. “Jail was a blessing for me. At the rate I was going I’d either be spending a whole lot of time there or end up dead”, recalls the comedian of his spiraling street career. With a second chance, Capone left the street life and became a home attendant for the mentally challenged. “It may seem a little far fetched that I chose a Samaritan job, but I’ve always been interested in helping people, especially those who are unable do for themselves”. Although his salary was a far cry from his previous income, he valued his freedom enough to stay on a legitimate path and supplement his wages by moonlighting as a barber on the weekends. It was at his second job, that he began to hone his comedic skills by engaging in intense snap sessions with co-workers. “I was always cracking jokes on the customers or my co-workers so the barber shop served as a sort of comedy haven for me.” It wasn’t until 1992, when a promoter friend of Capone’s challenged him to take his innate talent off the streets and to the stage that his comedy career was launched. “My first show was at Columbia University,” says the comedic veteran of his meager beginnings and who credits his late mother for his comedic sense. “I won the amateur contest and I was invited to perform with the heavy hitters.” Performing with professionals such as Mike Epps, Tracey Morgan and Talent, opened up many doors for the boisterous budding comedian. He immediately ditched his day job after he’d saved his earnings to open his first barbershop. “It was always one of my dreams to have my own barber shop and work for myself.”
Today, the funnyman is the C.E.O. of D.D.L. Enterprises (his initials). He teaches the business of comedy one day per week, at no charge, to up and coming comedians. In addition to his acute business savvy, Capone’s ability to adapt to any audience has made him a mainstay in the comedy arena. He has performed at a variety of venues such as New York’s Caroline’s Comedy Club, Uptown Comedy Club, Boston Comedy Club (noting just a few) and many college Universities. He has toured with N.Y. Kings of Comedy, Russell Simmons Def Comedy Jam in England and Shaquille O’Neal’s All Star Comedy Jam in 2011 and 2012. It is this same universal comedic flair that helped Capone nab his gig as the host of Harlem’s legendary Amateur Night at the Apollo Theatre as well as the majority of the theaters scheduled concerts, “transforming it into a comedic vision”, says the comedian. With his witty style of comedy, the content of his material derives from personal experiences, relationships, children, society, work and ethnicity, admits Capone. Capone notably talented in acting as well, was the main actor for New York Times bestselling author Zane’s HBO film production of her book Sex Chronicles. It’s obvious that he has traveled his path and walked toward the light almost stealthily – when the world of comedy least anticipated his arrival. But he’s here now! Sitting stoically upon his comedic throne, capitalizing on his continued success as he embraces every opportunity to tickle the next funny bone.