Johnny Live to deliver laughs for a good cause

When the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium at Jamaica College comes alive on Sunday, October 19, it won’t just be a night of belly laughs. For creator and host Christopher ‘Johnny’ Daley, the Johnny Live Comedy Bar Special is about much more than jokes; it’s about building community and giving back.

Speaking on what attendees can expect, Daley told The Gleaner that it will be “an unforgettable night of laughter and good energy”.

“This show is about more than just jokes. It’s about creating a space where people can release stress, reconnect, and celebrate together,” he added.

Daley is no stranger to taking Jamaican comedy to wider stages. Fresh from a well-received performance at CARIFESTA in Barbados, where he quickly became a crowd favourite, the experience underscored how laughter crosses borders and confirmed that Jamaica’s comedic voice has a place on the international stage.

Headlining the show is African-Canadian star Frankie ‘Trixx’ Agyemang, whose bold, no-holds-barred comedy has won him international acclaim. Daley explained that Trixx was a natural choice because of his deep cultural connection to Jamaica.

“Growing up in Toronto, he was surrounded by Jamaicans, and that influence shows up in his comedy. He has built a reputation for representing the Caribbean diaspora while still bringing his own bold, international style. I felt he was the perfect fit because he bridges cultures.”

Daley believes that Trixx’s material not only resonates deeply with Jamaicans, but also reflects a wider global experience.

Balancing that international flair will be Jamaica’s own comedic heavyweights: Dahlia Harris, Fancy Cat, and Leighton Smith. Each, Daley noted, brings their own magic to the mix. “Dahlia is sharp, witty, and has a way of weaving humour with commentary that really sticks. Fancy Cat is raw comedy talent — his timing is impeccable and he always has the audience in stitches. Leighton is an exceptional storyteller who knows how to keep a crowd hanging on every word. Together, they bring that rich Jamaican flavour that grounds the show,” he said.

But this comedy special has a special mission. Part proceeds will support the Children First Agency, a youth development organisation in Spanish Town that recently lost its international funding partner.

“Children First has been transforming young lives for years through education and mentorship,” Daley said. “That’s why this support is so critical. The proceeds from our event will help them continue their programmes and keep changing the lives of at-risk youth,” Daley explained, adding, “For me, combining laughter with a purpose is the heart of Johnny Live.”

At the agency, the impact of the support is already clear. Claudette Richardson-Pious, executive director of Children First, said that every day they witness how a little hope can change a young person’s path. “We are honoured to be part of this special evening, where laughter becomes a force for good. Every ticket sold will help keep a dream alive.”

For Daley, that sense of purpose is what has kept him producing Johnny Live shows year after year. Hearing from audience members that a show lifted their spirits or gave them a laugh they didn’t know they needed constantly fuels his passion.

“Comedy, for me, is not just a profession. It’s a calling. As long as people need joy and release, I’ll keep producing Johnny Live to give them that space.”

Tickets are now available for purchase. Showtime is 7 p.m.

entertainment@gleanerjm.com