Lord of the Stage

Comedian Leighann Lord is the latest performer in the University Center Program Council's series, Club Café.

Wednesday night Lord entertained ASU students during UCPC's monthly Club Café.

Her quick punch lines and witty jokes kept students laughing and the applause coming.

"How come education never goes on sale?," Lord joked about during her routine. "You know, buy a bachelor's degree and get a Ph.D. at half the price?"

Featured on television shows television shows such as The View (ABC), Girls' Night Out (Lifetime), Tough Crowd (Comedy Central), Premium Blend (Comedy Central) and Stand-Up Spotlight (VH1), Lord has made a name for herself by using very little profanity— something rare in the entertainment business.

"Most (comics) use profanity instead of a joke of substance," said Lord. "It's like a spice; too much of it spoils the routine."

As well as appearing on stage across the nation, Lord has also donated her time and performed for troops overseas during Operation: Enduring Freedom.

"(Performing for troops) is similar to the college scene because the soldiers are so young," she said. "They are doing a hard job and are stressed. They need a break."

In recognition of her comedic blend of truth and humor, Lord has received honors that include The New York City Black Comedy Award for the Most Thought-Provoking Female Comic, The Riant Theatre Women's Play Festival Best Actress, and twice the official comedian for Harlem Week, an honor only to be given to Richard Pryor.

UCPC looks everywhere to find fresh faces for its Club Café events. Sometimes entertainers show up when they're not looking.

"We went to a national conference in Minneapolis, Minn. where (Leighann Lord) was the showcase performer," said Josh Parker, UCPC president.

Club Café features coffee-house type entertainment. Performers include singers, musicians, comedians and magicians.

Due to its small, coffeehouse style, Club Café creates an intimate setting that allows students to relax during the middle of a hectic week.

"It's not a well known event," said Parker. "We usually set up for 70 or 80 people to come. It's a chance for people to get out of the dorms and have a laugh."

The series is held on the last Wednesday of every month during the fall and spring semesters. UCPC usually hosts three installments in the fall and four in the spring.

The event has a $1 admission fee, but students, faculty and staff get much more in return.

During this month's events everyone who attends Club Café will receive a bistro coffee mug.

Along with paid admission, the audience also receives cookies, brownies and other snacks and all kinds of refreshments.

UCPC also give out pencils, pens and highlighters to get their name out around campus.

"Club Café is a great way to get our name out (to students)," Parker said. "We've had some members join just based on Club Café."

Club Café is a great opportunity for ASU students to enjoy a night of entertainment.