Music and comedy are two deeply intertwined practices. A number of the most successful comedians in history have used music to imbue their acts with an increased energy and relatability. Sometimes, as is the case at the The D’Addario Foundation Back 2 School Benefit, they join forces for a cause greater than comedy, creating an even better experience than either of them could alone.
If you’re not a musician, D’Addario may not be a name you recognize, but it is quite literally a name that you’ve heard. They’re one of the largest manufacturers of musical instrument accessories, from guitar strings to drum heads, it’s a decent assumption that D’Addario makes at least one instrument that you’ve heard or played at some point in time.
The D’Addario Foundation Back 2 School Benefit is put on by their philanthropic arm The D’Addario Foundation, and is largely a night of comedy supported by Watkins Family Hour and Mike Viola who serve as the house band for the evening’s festivities.
Watkins Family hour is a bluegrass musical collaborative spearheaded by Sara and Sean Watkins (hence the name) and began right here in Los Angeles as part of a variety show in 2002. Their debut album was entirely a cover album but still garnered largely favorable reviews, a more impressive feat than it may seem (gestures vaguely in the direction of Weezer). Their fellow host Mike Viola is a grammy nominated producer who has worked with acts such as Fall Out Boy and Ryan Adams but may be even better known for his film soundtracks, which include Get Him to the Greek, Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story, making for an excellent pairing with a night of comedy.
Notable comedians at the event include Jim James, Mandy Moore, John C Reilly, LP, Langhorne Slim, Garfunkel & Oates, Blake Mills, and Inara George. That list alone makes this a must see event for anyone who loves comedy, or even anyone who is at least tangentially interested in laughing.
The D’Addario Foundation is focused on providing kids with instruction in music, with programs that often average up to 200 hours of music instruction per year (making for nearly four times the average). Who knows, your ticket could spark the career of your new favorite musician. So go have a laugh, and give money to a cause worth contributing to.
Location:Palace Theatre
Address: 630 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA
Tickets starting at $50 Available Here
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