Real Comedians of: The Poconos

A new segment about small town comedians you’ll want to keep an eye on

Nate Marks on stage, performing as a hot dog.

From spending so much time in the Poconos, I’ve met some really interesting comedic talent in the area. What’s especially notable to me is that, these comedians are essentially “hiding” in the mountains. It’s another rural area, one of hundreds or thousands across America that the comedy industry doesn’t pay attention to. After all, New York City and Philadelphia, much stronger urban comedic environs teeming with class act talent, are only a short drive away.

So, I’m going to highlight them, because I think they deserve it. Today, I’d like to feature a remarkable comedian and fellow who goes by the name of Nate Marks.

I first heard Nate perform at a show being held in a field on a farm, but not just any show, and not just any farm. It was being presented by a CSA group at the historic Josie Porter farm, who routinely gathered in the summertime to collect fresh member-supported produce, sat in folding chairs at dusk with friends, ate a picnic style dinner and watched local talent give it their best.

I was delighted and surprised when Nate took the stage, because it’s rare that I meet other comedic musicians who bring it with such bigness, and I do mean to toot my own horn. He is outrageous, bold, smart, and unpredictably quick and funny. My husband and I bought his CD for $5, which included a real dead bug, and I made plans to add Nate to my friend circle immediately.

You may find him on stage dressed as a hotdog, “playing sandwiches” as instruments using some kind of odd technology that’s frankly (pun intended) over my head, and routinely posting the best local fare in his Sandwich Enthusiasts of Pennsylvania Facebook group, which is absolutely worth the price of admission. Everything he does is kind of deliciously wonderful and strange.

Catch him at The Crazy Country Club on Feb. 17th at 215 Main Ave. in Hawley, PA.

Daily inspo:

• This guy is in the news again | NY Post

• This interview with John Swartzwelder by Mike Sacks is A+ | The New Yorker

• Hot take on politics and comedy by @GianmarcoSoresi | X

Happy Wednesday, ya groovy cupcake.