They say that “comedy is tragedy plus time”. Join us for an evening of laughter and inspiration as ordinary people share their extraordinary tales of overcoming life’s toughest moments. These storytellers will take you on a journey through events that once seemed insurmountable, only to find humor and resilience in the aftermath. From embarrassing mishaps to unexpected twists of fate, these stories will remind you that sometimes, the best way to heal is to laugh at the absurdity of it all. Come and be part of a show that celebrates the people’s ability to turn tragedy into comedy.

We Can Laugh About it Now features Ade Ajayi, Dani Bee, Lilli Lopez, Payton Payne, Meyling Ly, and Nono Osuji.

More about the performers:

Ade Ajayi, a native Texan, is a dynamic artist who seamlessly blends comedy, storytelling, and community engagement. As a comedian, producer, writer, and performer, she brings fresh voices and perspectives to the Dallas comedy scene. Ade is thrilled to premiere her latest show, We Can Laugh About It Now, at Stomping Ground Comedy Theater. The show uses storytelling to share personal anecdotes and dissect societal quirks, inviting audiences to find humor in life’s toughest moments. She created The Formula, a monthly all-Black improv jam that provides a fun space for Black professionals to explore improv comedy. Her mission is to encourage more Black individuals to embrace this creative outlet and build a supportive community. Ade’s work embodies laughter, inclusivity, and artistic expression. Her commitment to bringing new voices to the forefront and creating inclusive spaces makes her a standout in the comedy world. Keep an eye out for her upcoming projects—they’re bound to be delightful!

Edinburgh Fringe Festival alum and standup comedian Dani Bee is on tour with her new one-woman show, Laugh after Death. Most little kids feel weird visiting their grandparents in hospitals or senior communities- but for Dani, it was a chance to see all her friends! This foreshadowed her later career working at a medical facility for geriatric patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s, which is the hilarious, heartbreaking focus of her show. In the tradition of one-person shows Bee brings to life a vibrant cast of colorful characters from her no-nonsense parents to her favorite elderly patients and friends. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and if you have any experience with grief, loss, or dealing with loved ones with dementia or Alzheimer’s, it's sure to be a show you'll never forget. Be sure to follow her on Instagram @comedianDaniBee.

Lilli Lopez is a stand-up comedian, producer, writer, and actor. Lilli has opened for notable headliners including Sofía Niño de Rivera and Sara Schaefer and hosts Big Sexy Texas, a comedy party featuring the Lonestar State’s finest comics and music. She appeared as the taco game show host on United Tacos of America (El Rey Network) and has performed in comedy festivals including the L.A. Diversity in Comedy Festival by Second City, Out Of Bounds Comedy Festival and SXSWedu. You can follow or give her money via the internet ONLY: @comboloca

Born and raised in the vibrant city of Chicago, IL, Payton Payne is known as ‘the voice of the people.’ A dynamic presence in the comedy scene, Payton burst onto the stage in 2022 and quickly became a fixture in the DFW metroplex. With appearances on Don’t Tell Comedy events and as the visionary behind the Black Sugar Comedy Show, Payton has established herself as a comedic force to be reckoned with. Sharing the stage with renowned comedians such as Pinky Patel, Zainab Johnson, and Tom Filline, Payton’s talent knows no bounds. Notable achievements include winning the March Laughness 2024 at The Comedy Arena and reaching the semi-finals in the Funniest Person in Dallas competition. Payton effortlessly captivates audiences with her uproarious yet relatable anecdotes about life, love, and the art of survival.

Nono Osuji is an actor turned filmmaker and writer. While living in NYC she attained her Master of Arts from the New School University in the Media and Film. She has worked for streaming series, podcasts, political candidates, churches, and corporate entities such as AT&T, Tiffany & Co., and Warner Media as a Creative Producer, Project Manager, and Writer. As an actor, Nono is currently focusing on voiceover work and taking Improv at The Stomping Ground Comedy Theater located in Dallas, TX. She is open to an agent for TV/film, and voiceovers. She is also a political and social advocate for lupus and kidney patients. Her free time is spent completing a PMP course through Cornell, learning Spanish, cooking new cuisines, napping, and spending time with her friends and family with her karaoke mic in hand.

Meyling “Mey” Ly Ortiz is a corporate lawyer by day, consumer of (sometimes salacious) fiction by night, and aspiring "fun" mom to three littles 24/7. Her passions include mentoring, community-giving, and championing the power of belonging. A self-professed "dabbler," for fun -- she's currently blogging (TheMeybe.com), working on a book, exploring hot yoga, and building a public speaking side-hustle.

Rated M for Mature/18+. Ticket prices are $15 (plus fees) in advance and $20 at the door. Stomping Ground is BYOB. Alcoholic beverages are allowed for all attendees over 21 years old; patrons are asked to enjoy them responsibly. For the most current information on what to expect when heading to Stomping Ground visit our FAQ page.

Contact the host of We Can Laugh About it Now: Laughing at Life's Lessons