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Funny Farm serving up more than just laughs
The club is still committed to comedy, including national acts.
NILES — The new owners of the Funny Farm have a serious message: Their club isn’t just for comedy shows anymore.
Eric Stevens and Chris Jackson are turning the Funny Farm into an entertainment mecca, with a happy hour, live music, dancing and a revamped menu at its full-service kitchen.
Stevens and Jackson were the entertainment and bar operators at the old Choices Night Club at the former Holiday Inn MetroPlex in Liberty. Like the Funny Farm itself, Choices was forced to close a couple years ago when the MetroPlex changed ownership.
Stevens and Jackson took over the Funny Farm in November from long-time owner Dave Robisch.
They are still fully committed to booking comedians but are taking advantage of the venue to make it into a destination.
Patrons would come for the comedy shows, maybe get dinner, and take off after the show. The club would be empty by 11 p.m.
The Funny Farm, 5580 Youngstown-Warren Road (Route 422), directly across from Eastwood Mall, is spacious. It has a main room with a stage, and a bar area that sits on a slight terrace above the main room. Adjacent to the bar is a secondary, quieter bar room with a pool table and booths.
“Our vision is a conglomeration of comedy, dancing and food,” said Stevens, “kind of like the way it used to be at the MetroPlex, but only all under one roof.”
The Funny Farm will continue to book touring and local comedians every Thursday, Friday and Saturday and will bring in larger national acts about once a month. The club had a hit two weeks ago with comedian Michael Winslow, who is best known for his roles in the “Police Academy” movies in which he demonstrated his ability to make sound effects with his mouth. Stevens said Winslow pulled a strong turnout.
Three Blonde Moms are slated to appear Feb. 19-21.
This weekend the club is offering a Valentine's Day special for couples. The $150 package for two includes flowers, steak and shrimp dinners with dessert, a bottle of wine, admission to the club for comedians Mel Fine and Keith Bender and, afterward, club admission for music by the Huckin’ Fillbillies. Hotel room packages are also available.
Other upcoming bands include Youngstown’s Total Package band Feb. 21 and the Rage on Feb. 28.
The Funny Farm’s restaurant has altered its menu and lowered prices. It specializes in steaks and pasta, with most entrees in the $10 range. The full menu is available until about midnight; afterward appetizers — including its specialty, onion loaf — and sandwiches are offered until closing.
For more information, call (330) 652-4242.