If you attend a Don Gavin performance, you better laugh quickly because the next laugh is moments away.
Gavin’s trademark rapid-fire delivery of one-liners – interspersed with jokes, anecdotes, and witty observances of daily life – has made him one of the true legends on the Boston comedy scene.
And Gavin, a former schoolteacher, has always made it a point o give back to the community as he will this Sunday when he serves as master of ceremonies for “Grin and Share It,” a comedy and dinner show to benefit My Brother’s Table in Lynn.
“It should be a fun event,” said Gavin, a Nahant resident. “We have a great lineup of comedians. We have over 250 years of experience combined on stage between us.”
Tony V., Lenny Clarke, Artie Januario, Steve Donovan, Johnny Pizzi, Frank Santorelli, and Dave Russo will join Gavin on the marquee for the eleventh annual show.
“It’s great to have that camaraderie when you get all these guys together for show,” said Gavin. “We’re never always working together so it’s kind of fun. I intimidate these guys into working for a golf shirt (he was kidding, we think).”
Gavin is a comedic genius who will tie the entire event together. One of the unsung gems is his often roast-like introduction of his fellow comedians. Like LeBron James, Gavin must be watched (and listened to) at all times because anything is possible.
Gavin attended Catholic Memorial High School in West Roxbury where he was a good student and played sports.
He started his comedy career in 1979. He has performed in 181 countries and in every state except North Dakota. “Someday I have to go there for a weekend, make 50 bucks and do a show.”
He has done shows in Las Vegas and Atlantic City.
What is his favorite hotel in Vegas?
“Way back I used to open for Jose Feliciano at the Golden Nugget – that was always my favorite. That still reminds me of the old Vegas, downtown. It’s still got a great pool and a great buffet. That epitomizes Las Vegas now. Everything else has changed.”
Gavin is happy to be helping My Brother’s Table fulfill its mission of assisting those in need.
“All of us are in the same boat and we’re lucky to be doing what we’re doing. If someone is down and out, it’s nice to give them a hand.”
Maria Coccimiglio, development and events manager at My Brother’s Table, recognizes the immense talent that Gavin brings to the stage.
“He’s an all-time great,” said Coccimiglio. “We’re honored to have him as the host and we look forward to a great show.”
To reserve tickets, please call My Brother’s Table at 781-595-3224.