From its founding by a Chinese American immigrant to its rise as a destination for nationally touring comics, Acme Comedy Co. has both a unique and lauded history.
Author Patrick Strait's latest book Home Club journeys through the evolution of stand-up comedy in Minnesota, from the simultaneously floundering and fledgling 1970s, through the robust and raucous 90s and to the present.
"When people think stand-up comedy... people always think of the coasts; they think of LA, they think of New York," says Strait. "The reality is that Minnesota has been a cornerstone of stand-up comedy really since the beginning." In Home Club, Strait details the history of the Acme Comedy Co. and the many individuals that have grown in their comedy careers and ultimately viewed the establishment as home base.
A pivotal component of the book is the story of Louis Lee; a non-English speaking immigrant who had deep roots in starting Acme, as well as in cultivating and supporting a Minnesota brand of comedy over the course of 30 years. "He's really worked on developing new comedians, bringing in really fresh voices, and really helping to... educate the audience in terms of how to really appreciate comedy."
Home Club is available at bookstores everywhere. Strait will be at the Bookstore at Fitger's for an author event from 12-2pm this Saturday, June 28th. The book is also available online through various sites including by visiting the Minnesota Historical Society Press.
Minnesota Reads is produced at The North 103.3 with funding provided in part by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
