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Remembering Robin, Denver comics call it a comeback, and ‘Singing in the Rain’ fun

April E. Clark
Steppin’ Out

For fans of actor-comedian Robin Williams, including myself, this week has been saddening. His comedic range in movies and stand-up was pure gold.

I loved him as Mork, Garp and Teddy Roosevelt.

Williams’ suicide Monday left fans shocked and asking questions, wondering how such a natural talent at making the world laugh and smile faced so much despair and darkness. From reports, his struggle with depression and addiction ultimately were factors in his untimely passing.



So much heartbreak.

I’ve lost a family member, a longtime friend from high school, and a news colleague to suicide, so the mission of increasing mental health awareness is close to my heart. It’s a fight we can all get behind to help our family, friends, neighbors and co-workers battle.



Even our heroes and idols — many we may never know personally — need our support.

I hope for compassion for those who struggle with mental health issues, diagnosed or undiagnosed, and for their loved ones. I hope for understanding. I hope for advances in treatment.

I hope for hope.

For those who know the pain of depression and addiction, and those fighting it every single day, I stand with you in support. In this interconnected, digitally social world, our lives affect one another, and there’s always a chance we can make a difference or help in some way.

Even if we never meet in person.

I would have loved to meet Robin Williams to tell him how much I loved his work. There was always that chance. I’ll always remember his movies, TV shows and stand-up specials. I’ll fondly recall how he made me laugh and smile throughout my life.

Even when he couldn’t.

Friday

Comedy has had a major effect on my life, and I can’t imagine living without laughing and helping others laugh as a comic. Every set has been like an amusement park ride for me. Fun, scary, thrilling and a total blast. Tonight, the crowd at Loyal Brothers Lounge, 813 Grand Ave., will be doubling over with laughter as Comedy Night returns. A few of Denver’s funniest comics will head over Vail Pass, through Glenwood Canyon, and across the Colorado River to perform their distinctive styles of jokery in downtown Glenwood Springs. Boulder comedy show host Brent Gill headlines, and Colorado native Chris Charpentier, a founder of Denver’s The Fine Gentleman Club — a fine example of comedy gold — headlines. Laugh along with guest spots by Ben Adams and Jon Wilkins, and guest emcee Brett Crandall, who has performed at Comedy Works, The Denver Improv, Witt’s End, Loonee’s Comedy Corner and Sunray Park and Casino, to name a few. Doors at 8 p.m. and the free show starts at 9 p.m. Make sure to tip the wait staff.

Saturday

From Glenwood’s Summer of Music to Silt’s Party at the Pavilion, the Western Slope’s offerings of outdoor musical entertainment flourishes during the warmer-weather months. Rifle’s Centennial Park Concert Series continues the sounds Saturday evening with pop-rock piano rockers Foxfield Four, said to have ivory-banging influences ranging from Jerry Lee Lewis to Ben Folds. Featuring classically trained pianist David James, his brother Preston, and Denver musicians Wes Barton and Mike Albrecht, the band plays at the Centennial Park pavilion with plenty of room for dancing in the grass, a beer garden, and free mini golf for the kids. The evening begins at 7 p.m., with no admission. Find out more about the band at http://www.facebook.com/FoxfieldFour.

Sunday

The Weather Channel’s five-day forecast reports a zero percent chance of rain Sunday in Carbondale. But don’t let that near-perfect 80-degree weather stop the celebration of “Singing in the Rain” in the next installment of Music and Movies at Third Street starting at 7 p.m. The 1952 classic, starring Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds, will show on the outdoor screen in the backyard of the Third Street Center. The crowd is encouraged to ride their bikes or rideshare, and bring blankets and picnic baskets — that should stay dry — to a laid-back evening of family-friendly entertainment. My girl Ananda Banc will play live music with her dad, Chris, to start the free night of “Singing in the Rain”-inspired festivities. Try to come in costume, and don’t forget the umbrellas and rain boots. Not that you’ll need them.

April E. Clark’s favorite tune to sing in the shower is “Singing in the Rain.” She can reached at arts@postindependent.com.


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