Welcome to
Pen and Punchline!
Pen & Punchline works to light up Albuquerque’s literary and comedic creativity, providing resources and opportunities for authors and comedians to thrive.
Whether you love a good book or a great laugh, we’re building a vibrant community where writers and comics connect with passionate audiences.
Through dynamic workshops, live events, and engaging collaborations, we celebrate both the written word and the art of comedy, all while showcasing what makes Albuquerque a hub of creative expression.
Funny Fiesta
The ABQ Funny Fiesta is a vibrant celebration of comedy in the heart of Albuquerque!
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Our mission is to create an inclusive space where diverse comedic artists from all backgrounds can share their unique voices, making audiences laugh out loud and think deeply.
We bring together stand-up, improv, sketch, and more to highlight the rich variety of comedic styles that fuel our creative community.
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But it’s not just about the laughter—it’s about showcasing what makes Albuquerque truly special.
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From local talent to national headliners, the ABQ Funny Fiesta is a place where comedy meets culture, creating unforgettable moments that capture the spirit and charm of our city.
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Whether you're a comedy lover or a performer, the ABQ Funny Fiesta is your go-to destination for fun, connection, and a ton of entertainment.
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Join us every year as we celebrate the power of humor and shine a spotlight on everything that makes Albuquerque amazing!
Writers Circle
Join us every Sunday at Dry Heat Comedy Club for our weekly Comedy Writing Circle!
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This collaborative workshop is open to comedians of all experience levels looking to refine their material, sharpen their writing skills, and receive constructive feedback.
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Each session kicks off with a guided writing prompt to inspire new ideas, followed by a discussion of the prior week’s comedy shows.
Afterward, we dive into a short lesson or Q&A covering various aspects of comedy writing and performance.
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We wrap up the session with a joke workshop, where participants can present bits they’re working on and receive valuable feedback from peers.
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Whether you’re preparing for an upcoming show or just looking to develop your comedic voice, this is the perfect space to hone your craft in a supportive and creative environment.
First Draught
The First Draught reading series is a one-of-a-kind event brought to you by ArtsHub’s Pen & Punchline program. This unique series celebrates local authors and Albuquerque’s vibrant craft beer scene by pairing live readings with carefully curated beer flights.
At each event, four talented authors share their original work in front of an audience, creating an intimate and engaging literary experience.
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To complement each reading, a beer flight—featuring selections from the host brewery—is available for purchase, enhancing the connection between the art of storytelling and the craft of brewing.
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First Draught launched in 2024 at Red Door Brewing Company Downtown and will continue to tour local breweries throughout Albuquerque, offering more opportunities for the community to come together and experience the synergy of great stories and great beer.
By combining two of Albuquerque’s creative strengths—its thriving literary community and renowned craft breweries—this series aims to foster new connections, promote local talent, and spread art in innovative ways.
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Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, a literature lover, or simply looking for a fresh way to engage with Albuquerque’s art community, First Draught offers something special.
Stay tuned for announcements on upcoming events and locations!
