Governor’s role as local star factory
For more than 30 years, some of the most talented and most memorable comedians graced the stage right here on Long Island, at Governor’s Comedy Club in Levittown. “There is no comic that isn’t aware of this place or hasn’t worked here before,” said John
Trueson of Governor’s. “This is definitely in the top ten comedy venues in the country; everybody has been here,” like Jay Leno, Tracy Morgan, or Jerry Seinfeld (Massapequa), or the late Andy Kaufman (Great Neck), and the late Lenny Bruce (Mineola).
“People don’t realize just how many comics come from Long Island,” said Trueson.
Not only do the top acts take to the stage at Governor’s, but dozens have gotten their start and honed their craft like Bobby Collins (New Hyde Park), Wendy Liebman (Roslyn), Jackie Martling (East Norwich), Bob Nelson (Massapequa), Judd Apatow (Syosset), and
Carol Liefer (East Williston).
Governor’s Comedy Club in Levittown is the first of three full-time comedy stops, outside of New York City. In addition to Governor’s, there are two other Long Island club locations: McGuire’s in Bohemia, and The Brokerage in Bellmore.
“People don’t realize we’re here and they’ll travel to Caroline’s or Gotham Comedy Club in the city, not realizing, in the comedy world, to the comics, this venue is as respected than any other,” said Trueson.
Larry Samele, also of Governor’s said, “It’s exciting to provide a venue where people love to see these guys perform live; there is really no comparison.”
He said that Governor’s does attract comics to Long Island, that the venue is known for its great deal of history in the comedy world.
“Often, if you are a comic and you are starting out…in the city, you are going to be starting out in a [closet sized] room, this big, performing for like four people,” explained Trueson. “Here, you are working in a big room for more than 200 people, which will make you better, faster.”
It’s happened before when well-known comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, Kevin James or Russell Peters have been passing through and given an impromptu performance for a crowd of Thursday night regulars.
“We still have the classics, as well as those comics who are on their way up,” said Trueson.
The club also hosts fundraising events, bachelor/bachelorette parties, children’s comedy shows, cocktail hours, and a dinner menu.
Open mic is held regularly, as well as variety shows and private events.
Governor’s is open Thursday through Sunday with regular showtimes of 8 p.m. on Thursdays, 8 and 10:30 p.m. on Fridays, at 7:30 and 10 p.m. on Saturdays, and at 7:30 p.m. on Sundays.
Upcoming headliner comics include: Nore Davis, Adam Ferrera, John Fisch, Vinny Guadagnino, Ryan Hamilton, and Rosie O’Donnell.
Governor’s Comedy Club is located at 90 Division Avenue, (located behind Tri-County Flea Market Shopping Plaza on Hempstead Turnpike) in Levittown. Visit www.govs.com or call 516-731-0254.
