Local Laughs - Hosted by Dan Madonia

Local Laughs returns to the Avalon Lounge during the Catskills Comedy Festival for the third year, bringing together some of the Hudson Valley's funniest comics for one night. Hosted by Dan Madonia, this showcase features local and regional talent delivering sharp writing, fresh perspectives, and wall-to-wall laughs. Whether you're discovering your next favorite comedian or cheering on hometown talent, Local Laughs is a festival favorite that proves some of the biggest laughs come from close to home.

Ages 17+

The lineup

• Dan Madonia (HOST) — Dan Madonia’s comedy has been featured at festivals around the country, including SXSW, Woodstock Comedy Festival, The Los Angeles Scripted Comedy Festival, the Republic of Texas Motorcycle Rally, and The Great American Comedy Festival in honor of Johnny Carson. He has been featured in High Times Magazine and Deathsquad Podcast Network, is the co-creator/star of the webseries Relationsh*t, performs regularly for the Wounded Warriors Project, and is a former writer for LoveTV.

• Max Rosenthal — Comedian and filmmaker based in the Catskill area. He's performed around Catskill and at bar shows around NYC, opened for Eugene Mirman, and appeared on Seven Second Delay on WFMU.

• Gabrielle Johnson — Started comedy in 2025 and has performed at venues including Laugh It Up Comedy Club, plus bars and breweries throughout the Hudson Valley and NYC.

• Richard Francis Williams — Stand-up comedian and television writer working since 1996. Appearances include Comedy Central's Premium Blend, Chelsea Lately, Punk'd, The Howard Stern Show, and the HBO Aspen Comedy Festival. Writing credits include MTV's Next and Date My Mom, E!'s Excused, and Fox Sports' The Best Damn Sports Show Period. Two-time Emmy nominee.

• Geordan Mallas — A comic from the Hudson Valley who performs across the Northeast, known for his offbeat, sharp writing and unassuming stage presence. He’s dedicated to giving the audience a fun and memorable experience everywhere he goes.

• Brittni Taylor — Stand-up comedian who performs around New York, a finalist at the Queer Comedy Club, and recently a featured performer on the Comedy Social platform. She also dabbles in improv and sketch writing.

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