Melissa is the Club Manager of the popular Clubhouse. It was voted “The best comedy club in town” by the San Francisco Chronicle as well as receiving San Francisco Magazine’s and 7×7 Magazine’s Best of the Bay Area 2009. The fact that you can BYOB is probably the selling point of this mega popular club, but I’d like to say my friend Melissa deserves the bulk of the credit!
How did you become the Club Manager of the Clubhouse?
I’ve been involved with the San Francisco Comedy College (SFCC) since its inception in 1999. I was already marketing the shows and classes there when the CEO Kurtis Matthews decided to open a second, larger performance space at 414 Mason Street. We had been selling out our weekend showcases in the 7th floor theater space (which seats 60), so when the larger space on the 5th floor became available, the position of Club Manager was offered to me.
Who are the most popular comedians?
San Francisco has several comedians who have built a following. Two of the most popular comedians in town who trained at the SFCC are Ali Mafi and Reggie Steele. A few more comedians who have built a following in San Francisco are Ali Wong, Will Franken, Marga Gomez and Brent Weinbach.
Your most favorable guest?
My favorite audiences are the really enthusiastic comedy fans who keep coming back and bringing more friends each time. Generally, people who are polite, stay fairly sober and do not heckle are the best.
What are the biggest challenge/s in being a Club Manager?
My biggest challenges are filling the seats every day and dealing with drunk or crazy people once in a while.
Who are some future guests/comedians slated for 2009/2010?
We’re have Hasan Minhaj slated for Thanksgiving weekend and Joe Klocek headlining our annual New Year’s Eve show, which also features Ali Wong. Last year, our Valentine’s Day weekend was our busiest ever, so I hope to break our record!
The Usuals…
Why do you do what you do?
I love comedy and I enjoy working with funny people.
What makes you want to wake up in the morning?
Knowing that I will have some really good coffee soon. Usually, I have several to-do lists that motivate me.
Who is your inspiration?
I get inspired by many women, including my mom. She taught me to work hard and enjoy life.
If you were given the chance to relive your life all over again, who would you be?
Probably someone else.
What is your favorite indulgence?
Vietnamese food.
Your three rules to live by?
Try anything once.
Attitude is everything.
Acceptance is the first step to change.
Your favorite brand or jewelry item?
I like H&M and Target.
Your city/country of origin?
Skokie, Illinois
Your proudest accomplishment?
I’ve made people laugh and brought joy into the world.
