The First Laughs Comedy Show! » The Colonial Theatre

The First Laughs Comedy Show!

The Colonial Presents

About

Kick off your new year right with the best medicine. Don’t miss the first stand-up event of 2026 at the historic Colonial Theatre!
Starring: Joey Callahan, Donna Ottena, and Derek Lee
Hosted by: Anissa “Ms. Darkchild” Bane

Joey Callahan

From the first time Joey Callahan saw Dick Van Dyke trip over the ottoman, he knew he wanted to work in comedy. He has headlined clubs and casinos all over the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. He has performed his one-man show at the prestigious Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland. He is a regular at the Borgata in Atlantic City and has appeared on Comedy Central, ESPN, Fox TV, and the BBC.

Clean, fast, and full of energy, Callahan is sure to please any audience he is in front of! Philadelphia native Joey Callahan has been making audiences laugh for over two decades with his sharp wit, relatable humor, and quick storytelling style. A seasoned stand-up veteran, Joey has performed everywhere from comedy clubs and corporate events to cruise ships and television studios. Joey’s credits include appearances on Comedy Central, ESPN’s “The Lighter Side of Sports,” and Good Morning America, as well as writing for The Chris Rock Show. His act combines clever observations, spot-on impressions, and a natural comedic rhythm that keeps crowds engaged from start to finish. A master of clean, intelligent comedy, Joey Callahan is a true professional who delivers every time — whether on stage, screen, or in front of a corporate audience.

Joey’s Dry Bar special “Notorious F.O.D” is out now!

Derek Lee

Derek Lee hails from the Philadelphia region and has become a recognized presence on the local and national stand-up comedy circuit. A natural entertainer with undeniable stage presence, Derek’s comedy blends relatable urban experiences, sharp observational humor, and strong crowd engagement. His quick wit and confident delivery consistently win over audiences of all backgrounds. A regular performer at Philly-area comedy clubs and open-mic nights, Derek has brought laughter to venues like the Kelly Center in Havertown and beyond. His material stays sharp, current, and crowd-friendly — making him a favorite for club shows, corporate events, and comedy showcases alike. Derek’s talent has earned him spots on major platforms including Tom Joyner, Dr. Oz, and BET’s Comic View, solidifying his reputation as a standout performer. With his genuine energy and comedic versatility, Derek Lee brings an unforgettable experience wherever he performs.

Donna Ottena

Donna Ottena is a comedian who has been featured in several regional comedy shows, often performing in Pennsylvania (like Doylestown, Coatesville, and her hometown of Pennsburg, PA) and the surrounding Mid-Atlantic area. She is known to be a Comedy Competition Champ and has been featured in lineups alongside comics like Steve Young, Irwin Loring, and The Legendary Wid. When describing herself, she mentioned she is a mother and a grandmother, and famously a “cakeaholic” who buys birthday cakes with random names on them—which sounds like excellent comedy material.

Anissa “Ms. Darkchild” Bane

Beware – Philly’s own multilateral Ms. Darkchild is here. You never know what you’re going to get. Anissa Bane, A.K.A. Ms. Darkchild, brings a passion and a vision to the game of comedy and hosting. She wants to revolutionize the way people view comedy. Ms. Darkchild began her comedy acts in 1999 and added to her repertoire hosting in 2001. Since then she has earned the title “The Princess of Comedy.”

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