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Lifestyle

July 23, 2009

Laugh loud and lots in Londonderry

LONDONDERRY — Whether you're fresh out of college or a Baby Boomer, comedian Bobby Niles has something in his funny repertoire that is sure to draw a chuckle.

With topics ranging from life as a plumber to growing up during the age of "flower power," Niles presents a wide range of comedy. That repertoire will be on full display Friday night, when he takes the stage with Johnny Joyce and Jerry Thornton for a comedy triple-header at the Tupelo Music Hall.

The show, presented by Laugh Riot Productions, marks Niles' fifth stop at the venue. However, this will be the first time the show will feature this unique lineup of local comics.

"I'm just psyched," Niles said in a recent interview. "It is such a relaxed place. I mean the audience is so close I can almost reach out and touch them. It is just so intimate. I am so excited."

Considered one of Boston's best, Niles provides a point-of-view that is unique to his generation.

"I'm a former hippie, so my point of looking at things is different than most," he said. "I look at things from a fish out of water perspective. But I can play audiences of any age. No one is too old for me."

Niles' comedy resonates with everyday life. And don't expect this seasoned comedy veteran to spew one-liners like Rodney Dangerfield, as he is more of a storyteller.

"I wouldn't compare my style to anyone today," he said. "I never patented myself after anyone. I just came from a big family and in order for me to be noticed, I had to be funny. I wasn't good at anything else, so I had to be funny in order to get attention."

He said that, for him, nothing is better than playing at smaller venue in which he can have close interaction with his fans.

"When you are there, you feel like you know me. That's because I interact and talk to the audience," he said. "People come up to me on the street that have seen me perform and act like we are friends, even though we have never met. For me, that's just what I am trying to get across to them."

Opening for Niles is veteran comedian Jerry Thornton, a former winner of the WBCN Boston Comedy Riot Competition. Thornton has made a name across the country, working with national headliners Lenny Clarke, Steven Wright and Anthony Clark. In addition to his comedy, he also appeared on HBO in the award-winning Red Sox documentary, "Curse of the Bambino," and writes for several sports Web sites.

In addition to Thornton, 15-year comedian Johnny Joyce will make an appearance. Joyce has grown into stardom in the Boston area and made his mark in the comedy capitals of New York, Las Vegas, Atlantic City and Hollywood. He focuses on topical events and observations with an ever-changing act that is built up with a high energy performance.

However, Thornton isn't the only one expected to bring a high octane act to the table, as Niles claims this show is going to be packed with laughs.

"People should expect this show to have a lot of energy," said Niles. "It is going to be a blast. I can't wait to get up there."

If You Go

What: Tupelo Night of Comedy.

When: Friday, July 24 at 8 p.m.

Where: Tupelo Music Hall, 2 Young Road, Londonderry, N.H.

How: Tickets for the show are $17 and are available through The Tupelo Music Hall box office at 603-437-5100, or online at www.tupelohall.com. Tickets are available at the door if the show is not sold out.

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