LEOMINSTER — Jerry Caruso always had an interest in comedy. Beginning to be funny at the age of 12, he would impersonate different celebrities at the St. Patrick’s Elementary School schoolyard and hasn’t lost his sense of humor since.
Caruso, who is now an acclaimed area comedian, motivational speaker, and actor, will put on his professor’s gown to teach the Third Annual Stand-Up Comedy Workshop starting Monday, Jan. 30, from 7 until 8:30 p.m. at the Leominster Public Library, 30 West St.
“In my workshops, people will learn how to be funny and how to present what they perceive as funny (to them) in an entertaining way to an audience,” Caruso said. “There are many ways to be funny without the use of vulgarity and sexual references. That is what I have learned over the years of performing.”
Caruso said he loves sharing what he has learned to anyone who wants to attempt comedy.
“When I began doing comedy, I never had a ton of resources or guidance,” he said. “I learned with each comedy performance. Now, with the Stratton Players, led by Sally Cragin, and the Leominster Public Library I once again am provided the opportunity and God knows I am beyond thrilled to teach this comedy workshop.”
Caruso believes that that every individual wants that five to 10 minutes of fame, “here is their chance and opportunity.”
For many years now, Caruso has performed for numerous Boston based comedy groups as well as different comedy clubs throughout New England and New York.
His unique mix of celebrity impressions, song parodies, and standup comedy has brought laughter to audiences at many different venues.
In 1994, he co-founded “Comics for a Cure” with Toney Markus. From there on, Caruso put his God-given talents to good use by organizing and performing at comedy shows for nonprofit organizations and worthy causes.
“Laughter is so important especially during these difficult times,” Caruso said. “In times of stress I believe that laughter provides an outlet or an escape. Winter blues remains prevalent especially after Christmas and New Year. Think about it, January is a long month filled with cold days where the sun goes down between 4:30 and 5 p.m. Darkness can make people sad and depressed.”
Caruso said this is when he attempts to provide laughter in many ways via comedy shows, his football radio show, zoom sessions, comedy classes, podcasts, and motivational speaking.
Subsequent workshops will be held Mondays, Feb. 6 and 13, and a date to be announced before the “Graduation Performance”, which will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, at the Thirsty Robot Brewing Company, 265 Summer St., in Fitchburg.
Sally Cragin, president of the Stratton Players, agrees with Caruso that everyone needs a laugh.
“We are very happy to have the ‘Professor of Punchlines’ Jerry Caruso collaborate with Stratton Players, and inspire our actors to stretch their abilities, and learn new skills,” said Cragin. “Stand-up comedy is within anyone’s ability. If your family has ever laughed at something you said at the dinner table – you have the potential.”
This collaboration with Stratton Players, supported by the Leominster Cultural Council, is free and open to all.
“I schedule these shows especially during winter months,” he said. “You see, I believe that God gave me the gift to make people laugh. With that said, I love to use this gift to bring joy to those in need. Comedy brings people together to have fun and it’s that common bond that I love most.”
For more information, or to register for these workshops, which is required, visit leominsterlibrary.org or call the library at 978-534-7522, ext. 3.
