This year, Local First is hosting a new event to celebrate what makes our town so special: amazing local businesses, dedicated nonprofits and talented artists. Presented by Alpine Bank, Stand Up for Local First will take place on April 25 at the Durango Arts Center. The evening promises to be a fun-filled blend of comedy, music and camaraderie, all aimed at fostering community connections and highlighting our region’s vibrant local economy.
The event will be emceed by Shaheen Hangval, a Durango local known for her humor and community involvement. The show will feature performances by eight talented local comedians, with many of the jokes infused with local references. A unique aspect of the night will be the involvement of three local judges, who will vote on the “Best Of” comedy categories. The audience will also get a chance to vote for their favorite comedian of the evening.
Doors open at 6 p.m. for a lively happy hour with live music by Alex Graf and Friends, a local bluegrass/jazz band. The comedy show will start at 7 p.m., and the evening will conclude with a fun recap performance by Lower Left Improv, a well-known improv group in Durango.
Stand Up for Local First promises to be both a good time for laughter as well as a celebration of our special community. Proceeds from the event will benefit Local First’s mission to foster an economy that values people, the planet and prosperity for everyone in La Plata County. By attending, guests are not only in for a great time but also contributing to the ongoing success of the area’s independent businesses and creative community.
Andrea Rossi, local stand-up comedian and co-producer of Durango Comedy, shares the deeper significance of this event: “Supporting local comedy isn’t just about entertainment – it’s about nurturing community. When we invest in local comedy, we’re investing in shared laughter, authentic storytelling and the kind of genuine human bonds that make our mountain town special. As a performer, teacher and producer, I’ve witnessed firsthand how comedy can bring people together, creating more connection and joy – something we need now more than ever.”
Eric Eicher, president of Alpine Bank in Durango, echoes this sentiment. The bank’s sponsorship and support for Local First stems from a belief in the importance of community and the value of supporting local initiatives that strengthen Durango’s economy.
“Community is one of our core values, and we believe in supporting organizations like Local First that are making a difference in the community every day,” he said. “Our financial and personal commitments to Durango are substantial, and we’re proud to support events like Stand Up for Local First, which help strengthen our local economy and bring us together.”
Stand Up for Local First is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: Alpine Bank, Peak Health Alliance, Ballantine Communications, AlpenGlow Properties, Ash Luz Jewelry, ROLL eBike & SUP Rental, Sustainable Goods, The Payroll Department, Grassburger, Zia Taqueria, Jimmy’s Music and Supply, and WolfDirect. Please show your gratitude to these businesses for contributing to strengthen our vibrant community.
Join in for a night that combines laughter, local talent and a great cause – a perfect way to enjoy a memorable evening while supporting our region’s local economy. Tickets are available for $30 each, or $125 for a table of two, with a price increase after March 31. General sales began on March 24. Tickets can be purchased online via the event link: bit.ly/stand-up-local-first.
Ashley Christie is Local First’s membership and communications specialist.
