From Kill Tony to Shreveport: Mark Pugh’s Big Hometown Move

A Shreveport comedian recently put our city on the comedy map with his Kill Tony debut. Mark Pugh's appearance generated significant local excitement as he loudly represented Shreveport. Following his set, many residents clamored for a hometown show, but Pugh had an even better idea: he's opening a comedy club right here in Shreveport!

Must Watch: Mark Pugh's Kill Tony Debut

For those unfamiliar, Kill Tony is a popular stand-up comedy podcast that's been running since 2013. Hosted by comedian Tony Hinchcliffe and producer Brian Redban, the show invites random aspiring performers to deliver 60 seconds of uninterrupted stand-up. These hopeful guests, a mix of complete newcomers and undiscovered comedians, appear eager for their chance in the spotlight. For Mark Pugh, his Kill Tony debut significantly expanded his fan base in Shreveport.

Mark Pugh and his business partner, Clyde Williams, are opening up Shreveport Comedy Club because they have made it their mission to continue to add to the comedy scene they have been a part of for 10 years. "Based on the different comedy venues we’ve performed in and experiences we’ve had on the road, we intend on creating an environment for comics and audiences that’s intentional. The amount of talent in this city is enormous. And I believed for years that we could be a hub of entertainment and arts that rivals Atlanta, LA, NYC, and Vegas."

Pugh is eager to spread the word about all the goodness in Shreveport. "I think our biggest hurdle isn’t a lack of things to do, it’s awareness of what’s out there. I believe if the whole city knew about not only the comedy scene here, but the local music and art scenes, we’d feel like more of a cohesive city."

When asked about featuring talent from other cities, Pugh was quick to highlight Shreveport's rich pool of local comedians. "We have comics that could be, and should be, household names across the nation, right in our own backyard," he stated, listing names like Jay McKinney, Glenn Stuart, Trey Mack, Mack Swans, Bond Plus, Justen Jackson, and Cordell, noting that "the list goes on."

Even after performing on Kill Tony and at Joe Rogan and Brian Redban's clubs in Austin, Texas, Mark Pugh chose to bring his journey full circle. He decided to invest in his Shreveport hometown, planning to tell jokes and create content with his friends. "I love Shreveport, and I would like to help the world see what we have to offer," Pugh stated. "But more importantly, I want Shreveport to understand and appreciate the gold we have."

Shreveport Comedy Club is located at 7617 Pines Road and opens up on Monday, June 23rd. They will have shows throughout the week until Friday. All shows are “Pay What You Want” until Friday, and Wednesday is a Free open mic.