Fundraiser aims to keep Peoria’s historic Jukebox Comedy Club’s doors open | Latest Lifestyle News
PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — The Jukebox Comedy Club is facing a potential closure after financial struggles have mounted.
Dan Conlin, the club’s owner, wrote in a reposted GoFundMe saying “my sentiments remain. The need is more than ever.”
Sara Smola, who has frequented the stage at the West Farmington Road club for the past two years. She said the club is a great place for comics to hone their craft and for those who are just starting out.
To lose that venue would be devastating to the comedy scene in the area, she said.
An event is being held Wednesday night called “Save Jukebox” which will include an open mic and post-show musical jam session. As the name gives away, the occasion is to raise money for the club, which had similar issues in COVID-filled 2020 when it was also on the verge of closing.
The reposted GoFundMe details his struggles during COVID and how the pandemic ravaged his savings and wrecked havoc on his business.
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As the 2nd oldest comedy club in Illinois, it’s one of just 20 comedy clubs in the country to reach 30+ years in operation. The club first opened in 1990, and Conlin took it over in 2000.
Natalie Schneider, an area comic, made a post on Facebook including the GoFundMe and saying, “The JukeBox is like a second home to myself and tons of other aspiring comedians… some who drive hours just to attend during the open mics.”
The GoFundMe has a goal of $75,000, which at the time this story was published, had just over $30,000.
This story will be updated.
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