Zac Calden performing at a past Open Mic Comedy Night at 49 Franklin in Rumford. Submitted photo by Scot Grassette

Zac Calden performing at a past Open Mic Comedy Night at 49 Franklin in Rumford. Submitted photo by Scot Grassette

Zac Calden performing at a past Open Mic Comedy Night at 49 Franklin in Rumford. Submitted photo by Scot Grassette

River Valley’s original “Open Mic Comedy Night” has been happening for over eight years and will continue starting at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 29, in the Mystic Theater at 49 Franklin in Rumford.

We all have a friend that makes us laugh. You encourage them to try out for America’s Got Talent. You insist they could have their own talk show. Well now the rubber can hit the road with an opportunity to see them live on stage with a real audience.

The event will be hosted by area funny man Scot Grassette, and there are several quality locals who have already signed up. Currently on the list: Zac Calden, Gary Dolloff, Fred Dearnly, Blaine Drapeau, Zac Berry, Joel Riemersma, and Chuck Bellegarde. Comics are subject to change without notice and walk-ins are welcome only if time allows. Email info@49franklin.com or call 207-369-0129 to get on the list.

Through the years, dozens of locals have checked an item off their bucket list and made it to the stage to try their hand at stand-up comedy. And many have been kept at it, honing their comedy skills over the years. Zac Calden is one who has been getting better and better each time he performs. Calden recently opened for three Boston headliners for a sold-out show in the Mystic Theater, he has participated in many Friday Night Live sketch comedy shows, and other productions as well as hosting Open Mic at the Snowshoe Club on Waldo St in Rumford. He will close the show for Open Mic Night.

Grassette says, “There’s no minimum time on stage, we encourage people to have 5-10 minutes worth of material but no more than 15-20 minutes.” He added, “We also are not censoring the comics’ material, but recommend them to use similar discretion as professional stand-up comedians; which leaves it pretty open.”

There is no admission fee to enter, but the audience may want to get there early to get a seat. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for seating, a full pub menu, and cash bar. This is an 18+ event and may include adult humor similar to stand-up comedy found on Cinemax, HBO and professional comedy clubs. Seating is on a first come basis. Enter the building on the right side, parking is in the upper back and lower parking lots as well as the street. 49 Franklin is a cash only venue. For more information, call 207-369-0129 or email info@49franklin.com.