Wilmington's Comedy Stars
The Port City has produced and nurtured some seriously funny people. From Netflix specials to late-night appearances, Wilmington comedians are making their mark.
Notable Wilmington Comedians
Cliff Cash
Wilmington native and Netflix Trial by Laughter winner. Cliff filmed his special "The Long Road" at Thalian Hall and continues to tour nationally while calling Wilmington home.
Nancy Witter
MAC Award winner and Nick at Nite Stand-Up Showdown finalist. Nancy not only performs but teaches the next generation through her "Look Who's Standing Up!" classes at Dead Crow.
Wills Maxwell Jr.
Named Port City's Top Comic 2019. Creator of "What Did We Miss?" and StandUp NBC Regional Finalist. Active in the local scene and beyond.
Timmy Sherrill
Known as "The Godfather" of Wilmington comedy. Former Nutt Street owner and Charleston Comedy Festival winner. A veteran who helped build the scene.
Lew Morgante
Runs Gruff Goat Comedy showcases at Waterline Brewing. Regular host at Dead Crow known for his crowd work.
Rising Stars
The open mic scene is full of rising talent: Carson Hennessey, Colleen O'Meara, Julia Desmond, Jack Nelson, Zack Burke, and many more grinding it out every week.
See Local Comics
The best way to catch local talent is at the Thursday open mic at Dead Crow or the Women of Wilmington showcase at Laws & Libations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the most popular comedians from Wilmington NC?
Some of Wilmington's most well-known comedians include Cliff Cash, who won Netflix's Trial by Laughter and filmed his special at Thalian Hall; Nancy Witter, a MAC Award winner; Wills Maxwell Jr., named Port City's Top Comic; and Timmy Sherrill, known as the godfather of Wilmington comedy.
Are there any famous comedians from Wilmington?
Yes, Cliff Cash is the most nationally recognized comedian from Wilmington. He won Netflix's Trial by Laughter competition and filmed his comedy special "The Long Road" at Thalian Hall. Several other Wilmington comedians have appeared on national stages and competitions, including StandUp NBC and the Charleston Comedy Festival.
How can I book a Wilmington comedian?
To book a Wilmington comedian for an event, you can reach out to performers directly through their social media or websites. Many local comics, including Lew Morgante of Gruff Goat Comedy, host and organize shows regularly. Dead Crow Comedy Room can also help connect you with local talent for private events.
Where can I see local comedians perform?
The best places to see Wilmington's local comedians are Dead Crow Comedy Room's Thursday open mic, the Women of Wilmington showcase at Laws & Libations on Thursdays, and Gruff Goat Comedy showcases at Waterline Brewing. Local comics also frequently open for touring headliners at Dead Crow on weekends.
How do I become a comedian in Wilmington?
Start by attending open mics as an audience member to learn the scene, then sign up to perform. Wilmington has free open mics almost every night of the week. You can also take stand-up classes from Nancy Witter or improv classes through DareDevil Improv to build your skills in a structured environment.