Special to The Journal

Whether it’s the pandemic that left us needing to laugh or technology helping audiences feel connected to performers from the furthest reaches of a venue, comedy shows are having a day.

It’s not just in Rhode Island, either, according to those who scout and book talent.

“Comedy has reached a new level,” says Lawrence Lepore, general manager of Amica Mutual Pavilion and the Rhode Island Convention Center . “There was a time we’d book one comedian a year at the AMP. Now we’re booking a half dozen or more.”

As evidence, he rattles off names like Nate Bargatze , booked for a 2026 show in Providence; Jeff Dunham , who’s appeared annually for years; and Sebastian Maniscalco , whom Lepore hopes to sign for a third consecutive year.

“Everybody likes comedy,

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