Paco Romane had a big vision for The Romane Event when he launched it in 2005. He pictured a monthly showcase of a broad range of entertainers, including stand-up comedians, poets, rockers, and those with extraordinary talents. The premiere event put the spotlight on a local yo-yo champion. As the months wore on, however, Romane discovered that most of these artistic types couldn’t be trusted to show up consistently. Except the comedians. They would always show up. Whether they’d be sober is another story. Seven years later, The Romane Event still gives local funny people the microphone each month, a stay that is unheard of in the San Francisco comedy scene and an achievement in the general nightlife community as well. This year’s birthday celebration includes Comedy Central-approved comic Joe Klocek, a local who can demolish any heckler. Brooklynite Erin Judge, meanwhile, identifies as “bisexual, so you’re all my type” and darts her humor cleverly through the gay and lesbian communities. Colleagues from Romane’s comedy troupe Killing My Lobster, Philly transplant Joe Tobin, Kaseem Bentley, and Ben Kolina further the local funny perspective. Expect emcee Tony Sparks, dubbed the “Godfather of San Francisco comedy” for his frequent hosting appearances, to praise his favorite neighborhood: “The Tenderloin is great — if you’re a chalk outline.”
