Amelia Ritthaler and Evan Lazarus tackle Brooklyn’s thriving comedy scene
Evan Lazarus and Amelia Ritthaler started the "Girls Rewatch" podcast in 2023. Photo courtesy of Ritthaler and Lazarus
By Mandie-Beth Chau
December 20, 2024
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For the past few years, Amelia Ritthaler and Evan Lazarus pursued comedy through stand-up performances, social media content and a podcast. It’s no surprise that the pair have found a niche in Brooklyn, where an emerging local, alternative comedy scene has bolstered the industry with comedians like Sam Morrisonbreaking into the mainstream and Second Cityestablishing its first NYC space in Williamsburg.
Ritthaler and Lazarus have already made names for themselves in the city’s comedy scene. Ritthaler hosts a monthly all-women and nonbinary show at Cafe Balearica in Williamsburg called“Girl Church,” and she joked that the tagline is “We don’t book even one straight man.” Lazarus co-hosts a monthly show atClub Cumming called “Is This Gay?” But the pair have gained most of their notoriety from their “Girls Rewatch” podcast, where they comically and intellectually dissect the cultural significance of girl-themed shows.
The pair are gaining traction in the alternative comedy scene — comedy centered less on the joke-to-laugh format and instead focused on anecdotal storytelling revolving around a primary themes — where they perform at classic venues like the Bell House and Union Hall, along with DIY shows in apartments or rooftops, or at stand-up shows and open mics hosted by indie venues.
“We’re living in a resurgence where people are wanting to see stand-up more than ever,” said Lazarus “In the last year, three comedy clubs in Brooklyn opened up. That’s an absurd amount.”
SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.
ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.