Nationally touring comedian Myq Kaplan will headline a special one-night performance at Bar Two Eleven in downtown Bellingham on Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. The event, presented by local comedy series Guffawingham, marks a rare opportunity for audiences in Northwest Washington to see a nationally recognized stand-up in an intimate venue. Kaplan's appearance underscores the region's growing reputation as a destination for live comedy and reflects broader efforts to expand cultural offerings outside major metropolitan areas.
Kaplan has built a significant following through appearances on major television programs, including The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Conan, The Late Show with David Letterman, The Late Late Show, and Comedy Central Presents. His insightful humor and signature wordplay have earned him a global fanbase. "I love doing comedy anywhere, and Bellingham is one of those anywheres!" Kaplan said. His ability to connect with diverse audiences has made him a sought-after headliner across North America.
Beyond mainstream comedy, Kaplan is also well known within the vegan community. His first comedy album, Vegan Mind Meld, introduced audiences to comedy inspired by his vegan lifestyle, a theme that still appears throughout his stand-up today. "As a vegan, Bellingham is one of my favorite hams," Kaplan joked. This unique blend of personal identity and humor has helped him stand out in a crowded field, appealing to niche audiences while maintaining broad appeal.
The performance is presented by Guffawingham, a local comedy series created by comedian and producer Tim Riney. The series brings nationally touring comedians together with regional performers, giving Bellingham audiences more opportunities to experience live stand-up close to home. By pairing a headliner of Kaplan's caliber with local talent, Guffawingham aims to strengthen the comedy ecosystem in the Pacific Northwest and attract visitors from nearby British Columbia.
The evening also features Richard Bowen, a Seattle comedian known for his rapid-fire one-liners and sharp observations. Bowen earned national recognition after being named Laffy Taffy's "Chief Laugh Officer." Rounding out the lineup is Brett Emerson, a longtime Bellingham comedian whose quick wit and fearless sense of humor have made him a familiar face on stages throughout the region. "I love performing in the Pacific Northwest, because I'm a pacifist, a northerner, and a big fan of Mae West," Kaplan said.
The event is expected to draw comedy fans from throughout Northwest Washington and nearby British Columbia, offering a rare chance to see a nationally touring headliner in a downtown venue. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the show starts at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are available at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/guffawingham/2444106. The show's success could signal increased demand for similar events, further establishing Bellingham as a cultural hub in the region.
