There is nothing inherently funny about Winnipeg. Apart from being the butt of jokes regarding our cold winters, rarely do Winnipeggers have much to laugh about. Rumor’s has always been the exception to the rule.

In celebrating its 30th anniversary in Winnipeg, Rumor’s Restaurant and Comedy Club will be hosting a concert series on Nov. 14 and 15 featuring four renowned headlining comics: Derek Edwards, Mike Wilmot, Darryl Lenox, and Dave Hemstad.

Rumour’s remains Winnipeg’s only comedy club. Having lasted three decades, Rumour’s’ success cannot be attributed to dumb luck; several competing comedy clubs have failed over the years.

While the comedy club is celebrating its longevity now, there was concern when it initially began in 1984. “In the beginning it was tough,” says general manager and booker Tyler Schultz.

“In the 80s it was a brand new concept of having a venue just for stand-up comedy. But, once they got it going, it’s been going strong for 30 years.”

Schultz cites a few ingredients that have led to Rumor’s’ longevity.

“There’s the business of trying to go after bigger name acts and bring them to an intimate atmosphere [ . . . ] Nearly all the major top comics have come through here at one point.”

Rumor’s has showcased performances by some of the leading comics of the past 30 years. Household names such as Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock, and Louis C.K have all performed at the club. The club still continues to be a hub for comedy in Winnipeg, having brought in Kevin Heffernan and Steve Lemme of Super Troopers fame earlier this month.

“The reason this club is also successful is the room itself [ . . . ]It’s a very intimate atmosphere,” Schultz explains to the Manitoban.

From September to October of this year, Rumor’s was shut down for renovations. The comedy club now has a new look. Along with the brand new paint job and new flooring, there have been extensive updates to the kitchen.

After its grand re-opening on Oct. 31, Rumor’s is ready to celebrate a big anniversary with an even bigger celebration.

“This is probably the greatest lineup you’ll ever see for a show in Winnipeg,” says Schultz. “The four headliners we’re bringing in are all comedy legends. They’re all really big, like heavyweight, headliners.”

“I’m even struggling to figure out the order [for the acts].”

The four comedians featured for the night—Derek Edwards, Mike Wilmot, Darryl Lenox, and Dave Hemstad—all bring a unique spin to the comedy game.

While the four have gained success across Canada, all have a connection to the Winnipeg club. One of the comedians, Hemstad, speaks highly of the club and its impact on his career.

“I feel like I’ve grown as a comedian through my experiences working there, so I’m always happy to come back. They treat me like family there and I love playing it,” says Hemstad.

Hemstad is the youngest of the four comedians to take the stage for the anniversary show. Beginning his professional career as a comic in 2001, Hemstad has been nominated three times for the Canadian Comedy Award. Hemstad has also played the Winnipeg Comedy Festival, as well as the nationally recognized Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal.

Accolades aside, Hemstad remains modest for the Rumor’s anniversary show and praises the other three comics.

“On this show, I sure wouldn’t be offended if they thought somebody else was funnier. Because it’s one of the funniest shows I’ve ever been a part of,” says Hemstad.

“I mean each one of these guys [ . . . ] were guys I was huge fans of when I started up [ . . . ] It’s really awesome to be on the show with them.”

Rumor’s Restaurant and Comedy Club celebrates their 30th anniversary Nov. 14 and 15^.. The night will also feature a special surprise comedian. For more information on the event and upcoming events, visit rumorscomedyclub.com