This Kamala Harris comedy fundraiser could sell out in Boise? No joke, organizers say

A Boise comedy venue plans to raise money for Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris — and have lots of fun doing it.

“Comics for Kamala” will take over The Lounge at the End of the Universe, 2417 W. Bank Drive, for a two-hour show Saturday. Located on the lower level of the Gem Center for the Arts, the Lounge is a 2,800-square-foot club with a seated capacity of 200.

“Tickets are moving swiftly, and we anticipate selling out,” Brian Lee, managing partner of the Lounge, said in an email. “We have received RSVPs from several high-profile members of the Idaho Democratic Party.”

Lounge ownership hopes to “represent Idaho in a great light,” Lee added.

Portland comedian Harry Riley will headline. Local comics slated to perform include Jen Adams, Kris Sharma, Matt Vorhies, Jade Jesser and Leslie Bing. “Let’s laugh our way to a brighter future,” the event flyer says.

The Boise event is part of a multiple-state offshoot from last month’s national “Comics for Kamala” virtual show. Featuring household names such as Ben Stiller, Jason Bateman and D.L. Hughley, that Zoom fundraiser generated nearly $600,000, according to organizers.

In addition to raising money for the Harris presidential run, Saturday’s show will serve as a bounce-back event for the Lounge. The venue was forced to go dark in recent weeks because of troubles involving the building landlord and city of Boise. The Lounge recently secured a temporary occupancy permit to reopen for 60 days, Lee said. Lounge management is hoping the building owner will meet city requirements during that time frame, allowing it to remain open long-term.

Tickets to “Comics for Kamala” cost $29 general admission, $39 VIP (which includes priority seating and a meet-and-greet with the comedians) at comicsforkamala.com . You must be 18 or older to attend. There’s a two-drink minimum. Comedy goes from 7 to 9 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m.

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