As a child, Denise Jones loved to sit by the TV during the holidays to watch the celebrity specials.
She revelled in the magic of their sketches, the Christmas music and the audience participation.
It was just like they were in the living room, “creating that cozy holiday vibe,” she remembered.
Next week, Jones and David Milchard, the co-founders of The Comedy Department, will attempt to rekindle the feeling with A Very Special Holiday Comedy Variety Show, a two-night romp happening only in Coquitlam.
The pair will be joined on the Evergreen Cultural Centre stage on Nov. 28 and 29 by Jones’ husband and fellow improv veteran Michael Teigen, who grew up in Coquitlam, and Brian Anderson, a comedian and magician.
“We’ll be a triple threat: comedy, music and magic,” Jones said.
Still, they’ll have no script for their shows in Coquitlam — just a road map to guide them as the audience helps the comedians create the holiday acts.
It’s a collaboration that can result in a fun night with some interesting twists and turns, Jones told the Tri-City News on Tuesday, Nov. 19.
“We’re getting to know each other,” she said. “The content is inspired by the audience so it’s all about connection, which is what we need during the holidays.”
The Comedy Department is no stranger to the Tri-Cities.
Its musical parodies Middle Aged Boy Band and Citizen Hurricane have played sold-out crowds at the Inlet Theatre in Port Moody (the former returns on Feb. 7, 2025).
In the past, Jones, Milchard and Teigen have also appeared in The Comic Strippers shows at Evergreen.
As for next year, the company has 40 touring dates lined up, Jones said.
Tickets to A Very Special Holiday Comedy Variety Show on Nov. 28 and 29 are $41/$37/$16. You can call the box office at 604-927-6555 or visit the facility’s website.
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