Rob's Comedy Playhouse brings improv to WNY
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

Rob Lederman can rattle off the history of comedy clubs that have come and gone in Buffalo, including one he once owned, Comix Cafe.

The number of clubs on that list currently operating? None.

The Amherst resident said it's a shame that a city the size of Buffalo doesn't have a comedy club, so he is opening one this weekend.

Rob's Comedy Playhouse, located in Dandelions, 1340 N. Forest Road, near Maple Road, has sold out its first three shows on Jan. 11 and 12, Lederman said.

Shows will be held every Saturday, at 8 and 10 p.m.

"One of the things we are trying to become is a Chuck E. Cheese for adults," he said.

Whether it's celebrating a 40th birthday or an alternative bachelor/bachelorette party, Rob's Comedy Playhouse can host up to 100 people.

Lederman has been in the comedy business for nearly 30 years. He sold Comix Cafe five years ago to focus on his family and his career as a personality at 97 Rock. Under the new ownership, Comix Cafe closed approximately six months ago.

He said he is going back into the comedy club business because this time he has less to worry about. The back room at Dandelions is being renovated, and the restaurant's staff will handle the appetizers and beverages.

Tickets will be $10 per person, and the show features Lederman opening the show, with stand-up comedians from around the country, followed by an improv group of local comedians. The show is similar to the popular TV show "Whose Line is it Anyway?"

He said the stand-up talent will all be club headliners.

The improv group consists of, Loraine O'Donnell from Studio Arena Theatre; Dan Pordum, who has toured nationally with his stand-up act; Jeff Kooze, who received the highest level of training from Second City in Toronto; and Marc Colonna, who appeared at Comix Cafe for 16 years.

"It is more like a comedy theater than the 80's style of comedy club," Lederman said.

Packages include 12 tickets, two pitchers of beverages, three appetizers and favors for $149.

For information and tickets, call 688-1867.