Reviewed by Rosalyn Kahn, Born to Age, Head of On Q 2 Media
In a world full of chaos and noise, nothing hits quite like genuine laughter—especially when it springs from lived experiences. That’s exactly what I found at Leighton’s Laugh Lounge Live at the intimate Hang on the Dream Theatre in Hollywood. This comedy shows featured only light-skinned African American men, titled “Segregated Comedy.” Every culture has its unique take on comedy. The event featured genuine storytelling and great vibes, hosted by the talented Leighton Harris.
Leighton kicked things off with flair, singing and dancing to “Razze Dazzle” by Koyti, immediately warming up the crowd for an unforgettable lineup: Leighton Harris the host, Free Game Chad, Josh Shakespeare, Keenan Jerome, and the seasoned Comedian Shang. Each brought their own flavor, turning life’s oddities into moments of laughter and reflection.
Leighton Harris
Known not only for his comedic timing but also for his filmmaking and development of the Police Encounter Protection System, Leighton delivers sharp, observational humor. Whether he’s talking about gym bros acting like Planet Fitness is their royal court or club-goers with over-the-top personalities, his comedy feels like that hilarious friend who always sees what you’re too shy to say out loud. His gift lies in taking the everyday and making it delightfully absurd.
Josh Shakespeare
With a name fit for a playwright and talent to match, Josh’s journey into comedy began with watching a class clown command a room. That spark turned into a captivating blend of storytelling and humor. Now an actor recently cast in an independent film, Josh brings emotional intelligence to his sets. His performances aren’t just funny—they linger. You leave feeling like you learned something while laughing your head off.
Keenan Jerome
Don’t let his quiet demeanor fool you—Keenan is a force. With a background in visual effects on major blockbusters like Dune, Black Widow, and Thor: Love and Thunder, his comedy sneaks up on you with jazz-like precision. He finds hilarity in the mundane, from awkward dating moments to the never-ending debate between Papa John’s and Little Caesars. His smooth delivery makes you lean in, and before you know it, you’re cracking up.
Free Game Chad
Dressed to impress and doubling as a professional stylist, Free Game Chad brings grit, heart, and style to the stage. His set draws from personal struggles, weaving raw, real stories into humor that’s both healing and hilarious. His comedy is unfiltered yet thoughtful—a reflection of someone who’s lived it and knows how to find the punchline in pain.
Comedian Shang
A veteran with credits on BET’s Comic View, Def Comedy Jam, and even Alvin and the Chipmunks, Shang brought the house down with his fearless comedy. He dives headfirst into topics like race, politics, and cultural identity, never shying away from the uncomfortable. His ability to read a room and work with the crowd makes each set unique. And he always leaves you with something more than a laugh—he leaves you with a message.
Final Thoughts
These comedians didn’t just deliver jokes; they delivered their truths. They are not just performers but poets, observers, and survivors who turn life into laughter. If From the Classroom to the Stage is any sign of what’s to come, the future of comedy is in brilliant, bold, and very funny hands.
Free game Chad – https://youtube.com/shorts/
Kenan Gerome – https://youtube.com/shorts/
Leighton Harris – https://www.instagram.com/
Josh Shakespeare – https://youtube.com/@joshshakespeare?si=vHxK5AvSNeoWMQMV
Comedian Shane – https://youtu.be/kefl4IDaWec?