Onstage at the Freeland presented the world-renowned standup comedy of Brad Upton and opening musical act Carmen Bruner with Theron Perry and Chip Cooper accompanying her last Saturday. Brad’s comedy routine proved an instant hit with attendees, many of whom traveled from out-of-town and state to watch the show. Some patrons even came from Kansas City.
Attendees entering Venue 66 met Brad, standing in front of large, brightly lit “LOL” signage before entering the back, with its red brick walls and specially colored lighting for the night’s show. From the beverage center and hors d’oeuvre laden tables upon entering the room to the stage at the far end, tables and chairs spanned the space from wall-to-wall.
The room held a steady buzz of excited chatter as attendees quickly grabbed their goodies, making their way to the tables in anticipation of the show. Attendees were ready to be entertained, and after the show, not a single person expressed dissatisfaction with it. First, patrons were treated to the vocal talent of local Carmen Bruner. Next, Mr. Upton and his screamingly funny, side-splitting humor took the stage.
If laughter can be considered the best medicine, then the audience watching Brad perform Saturday night must have walked away healed of all maladies. The uproarious laughter drowned out a world filled with political poison, pandemic illness and death, anxiety, depression, division, and stress as friends old and new simply enjoyed the kind of freely wild laughter that leaves us all in tears and peeing our pants—sometimes, when we least expect it. Who wants to miss out on that kind of laughter? Certainly not those in attendance who came from out-of-town and state.
Two of those out-of-town visitors were Stephanie and Glen Toney of Oklahoma City. I was fortunate enough to share a table with them and learn a bit more about how they came to be in Bristow to watch Brad Upton perform. For two years, they have been watching snippets and clips of his performances shared by Dry Bar Comedy. On Friday, Stephanie messaged Mr. Upton, asking him when he would come to Oklahoma. He surprised her by responding with “tomorrow.” Stephanie said she called the Free land as soon as she was able, and they drove Historic Route 66 to Bristow for the show—a trip they had never before made. Having never seen their favorite comedian perform live, they were determined. Thanks to the Onstage at the Freeland and Brad, their dream came true.
As for their thoughts once the show closed, Stephanie and Glen shared their experience: “We enjoyed the show. We like the fact that he has a great sense of humor without the need to use foul language every other word. Driving to Bristow was part of the fun. … The Venue 66 was everything we could have hoped for, cozy and an intimate setting but with enough lights to see and room to walk between tables. The musical set before the show had a nice selection of songs to appeal to a varied audience. (I bought two of her CDs, so I could share her music with friends at home.) … The hour it took to drive to Bristow from OKC was a great trade off [sic] to be able to sit five feet away from the stage instead of seeing the same show in a huge arena. Our evening was enhanced by spending the evening with new friends.” They also agreed they “would do it all again in a heartbeat.”
Other patrons shared rave reviews as well:
“It was awesome. The Freeland brought the big city to the little town, and how special is that? Brad Upton was very humorous. The show was something new and different. It was good for the town and businesses, bringing in people from out of town and state. It was a really great time, and I enjoyed every minute of it. I can’t wait to do it again. If you missed it, you missed something really fun and special. Be sure to make it the next time. You won’t regret it.” -Nancy Findlay
“I loved it. I had a great time tonight. The comedian was really good, and the venue was wonderful. We need to do more of this.” -Bill Henshaw
“He was fabulous! He was so funny! Everything that came out of his mouth was hilarious. We were in tears. He’s great, and I would highly recommend him. I’d like to thank the Freeland. They always have great shows no matter whether it’s at the Freeland Center or Venue 66. They always put on a great show. If you’ve never been to a show, you’re missing out on so many really great acts from a wide variety of performers.” -Fran Kellar
“I loved tonight. My husband and I love Brad Upton. We’ve actually seen him on Facebook and his videos on Dry Bar Comedy, and he’s always been so funny. We really enjoyed him tonight and how he connected with the audience. It was just a thrill. For anyone who has not attended a Freeland event, it is worth it. Take the moment to step out and enjoy people and the wonderful acts. It helps boost the community and bring more great acts into it.” -Tonya Poe
“It was great for our town, bringing in big city entertainment and visitors to a small-town venue. Like everyone else, I’m excited. Everybody had a great time. I enjoyed it. We are very lucky to have the time and talent of Mr. Upton.” -Stan Earnhardt
“After a stressful week, tonight was the best thing I could have asked for—just nothing but fun and laughter, good jokes and great comedy in a fun venue. It made a great end of the week for me, and I’m glad I came.” -Mark Kennedy
Additionally, I attended the show, and I can honestly say that I have not laughed as hard or as long as I laughed during Brad’s performance in many years. Once again, Onstage at the Freeland outdid themselves in securing the best of the best talent. When you have the opportunity to see a show, take it. If the show you choose is only half as good as the show Brad Upton performed, you may become a lifelong fan of live performance, and you need not wait long. David Phelps will perform a Christmas show at the Freeland in December. Tickets are available at etix.com.