Sarah Silverman is set to return to her roots as she makes her debut at the 29th edition of Comics Come Home on October 28, 2023, at the TD Garden in Boston. This annual event, hosted by Denis Leary, features a star-studded lineup, including comedians such as Conan O’Brien and Lenny Clarke. It aims to raise funds for the Cam Neely Foundation, which supports pediatric and adult cancer patients and their families during treatment.
Silverman’s journey in stand-up comedy began in Boston, where she first took the stage as a teenager at the now-closed Stitches comedy club near Boston University. Reflecting on her early experiences, she recalled, “My whole plan was, ‘I’m going to do an open mic.’ I was 17, living in a dorm at BU for the summer and I got five minutes together and I went to Stitches.” The audience, comprised of fellow aspiring comics and supportive friends, made her debut enjoyable. “It was an open mic crowd so they were very nice,” she added with a laugh.
Despite her connections to the city, Silverman has never performed at Comics Come Home until now. “It’s a schlep, but whatever,” she remarked, expressing her excitement. “I’d probably fly out there if Denis Leary asked me to mow his lawn because he’s a quality person. I’m really happy to be a part of this because it’s been something that I’ve always been aware of.”
The event offers comedians a unique opportunity to reconnect with peers in the industry. “Comics have this forever bond but we live parallel lives and don’t see each other,” Silverman explained. She emphasized the joy of sharing the backstage experience, saying, “When comics are together, it’s always special.”
As the event approaches, Silverman admits she feels uncertain about her performance. After two stand-up specials in three years, she finds herself lacking fresh material. “I’m at zero, (expletive) zero, with material,” she said candidly. Yet, she is prepared to deliver on a specific request from Leary. “There’s a song from the special before the last that Denis requested,” she noted, hinting at the absurdly funny ballad “Something to Tell You” that she plans to perform.
For those interested in attending, tickets and additional details can be found at the Cam Neely Foundation website. This event promises not only laughter but also a chance to contribute to a noble cause, as comedians unite to support families affected by cancer.
