Redefining Connection Through Comedy
Matt Kemple is the founder of the Milwaukee Comedy Festival and co-founder and owner of the Laughing Tap Comedy Club. With over two decades of experience producing live events, he has become a pivotal figure in Milwaukee's comedy landscape — and a strong voice for what comedy can do for a community beyond the punchlines.
The 20th Milwaukee Comedy Festival
This year marked the 20th season of the Milwaukee Comedy Festival, and by every measure it was the biggest yet. "It was one of our biggest attended festivals we've ever had," Kemple reflects. The milestone represents two decades of building something that didn't exist when he arrived in Milwaukee — a robust, inclusive, locally-rooted comedy ecosystem.
Why Local Talent Matters
One of Kemple's core beliefs is the significance of showcasing local comedians alongside national names. "We try to keep it to a local person for those really big shows to give them opportunities," he explains. This approach elevates local voices and enriches the festival experience — while pushing back against an industry that has historically favored out-of-town talent.
Breaking Conventions: Bringer Shows and Inclusion
Kemple speaks candidly about his disdain for "bringer shows" — events that require performers to bring a set number of audience members to earn stage time. He sees the practice as detrimental to emerging comedians who may not have that network yet. Instead, he advocates for inclusive practices that let all performers showcase their talents without the pressure of crowd recruitment.
Building Community Through Comedy
Above all, Kemple sees comedy as infrastructure for human connection. "The after-hours conversations with comics are sometimes even funnier than their acts," he shares — pointing to the camaraderie that comes with shared creative passion. The Laughing Tap isn't just a venue; it's a space where people come together, and that's the point.
Key Takeaways
- Support local talent and give them platforms alongside established acts
- Challenge traditional industry practices that create unnecessary barriers
- Celebrate diverse comedic forms — stand-up, improv, sketch — to engage a broader audience
- Build community connections that outlast any single performance
Written by Brady Jager for NEWaukee, March 2026.