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The CROW was founded on the principle that comedy can change the world.  In disarming people through laughter, we are able to share different perspectives, stories, and world lenses, ultimately creating a more accepting, understanding society.  Stand-up and storytelling help us create a brighter, richer, more eclectic cultural landscape by opening people up to new voices and ideas. 

The Bergamot Comedy Festival is a week-long expression of this transformative belief and mission.  Focusing on underrepresented voices, this festival aims not only to bridge the gap between rising under-heard perspectives in comedy and the executives who can amplify their voices, but also help nurture the growth and education of these comedians. 

It benefits us all to help diverse rising talent reach their goals for three specific reasons. 

Whether it is your race, religion, gender identity, or political beliefs, being able to see yourself in public figures is crucial to the wellbeing and advancement of our communities. It provides hope and opportunity to those watching by being able to visualize themselves in positions of power instead of always being relegated to a side character or wondering if their experiences are valid or important.  Watching other people who look, sound, or think like you is more empowering and validating than listening to people just talk about wanting to empower or validate your specific community.  

Offering the chance to young LGBTQ+, BIPOC, or female-identifying persons to relate to comedy in such a personal way leads to a power-in-numbers effect.  Obviously, having more voices sharing the experience or ideas of a particular group is louder than one tokenized voice.  Additionally, it starts to lift the veil that all members of a group think the same or have the same experience; all BIPOC or female comedians will still bring their own individuality and outlook to the scene, further broadening the opportunity for understanding and growth. 

Secondly, having a diverse set of voices in comedy helps broaden the worldview of those who may not otherwise have access to ideas different from their own or their surroundings’.  Listening to a comedian share how they see the world can only lead to understanding and a deeper ability for compassion, or at the very least - an important conversation.