Meet Dave Crumbley of Toledo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dave Crumbley

Hi Dave, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up loving comedy of all forms, and was always recognized as a funny person. People said “Dave, you should be a comedian.” But I thought that was impossible, that you had to live in New York or LA to do that. But then they opened a comedy club down the street from my house, and I saw real people who work actual jobs doing standup comedy. That was nine years ago.

After getting established, I was never happy with how comedy was structured in Toledo. We were usually stuck in the corner of some bar with every television turned on and a completely unengaged audience who are barely aware that a show is even happening. Everyone is talking, no one paying attention. The comedians are bitter and angry because of this, and a snowball of negativity would start to spiral.

I spent six months in Lisbon, Portugal. There I saw an incredible English language comedy scene led by comedians from all over the world. German, Italian, Chinese, Israeli, Portuguese, Korean. They are all very driven people who have super high expectations and standards. The vibes are meticulously curated. There are no televisions on during the show. The audience is respectful. Comedians are put in positions to succeed rather than having to constantly battle their way out of a pit. I paid very close attention at every single show, and am doing my best to bring the Portuguese comedy experience to Toledo, Ohio. Intimate, real, and fun.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Changing perceptions, of audience and performers. The average American goes to 1.5 comedy shows over the course of their entire life. How to build a sustainable scene based on this audience?

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am the owner of Crumbley Comedy, a circuit of live standup shows in the Toledo area, We run events all over the city. Earnest Brew Works, Great Black Swamp Brewing Company, Chevy’s, Jake’s, Home Slice Pizza. I am proud of promoting consistently good events that audiences enjoy and the comedians have fun at. What sets me apart is willingness to work hard. To not give up.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://crumbleycomedy.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/davecrumbley
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/crumbleycomedy