Los Angeles, CA — The Grammy Awards are not just about music this year; they’re also shining a spotlight on the world of independent comedy. Laugh After Dark proudly announces that two of its outstanding projects, Kalea McNeill’s “Sma’am” and Trixx’s “Po’ Boy,“ have earned a place on the first-round voting ballot. This is a monumental achievement for the burgeoning comedy production powerhouse and a testament to the power of grassroots support within the independent comedy community.
Kalea McNeill and Trixx hail from diverse backgrounds, each bringing their unique experiences to the comedy stage. Kalea McNeill is a 10-year comedy veteran and actor with a degree in Theatre Arts from Clark Atlanta University. Her journey has taken her to iconic stages such as The Comedy Store, where she’s shared her hilarious stories. Trixx, originally from Canada and the son of immigrant parents from Ghana, has entertained audiences worldwide with his exceptional humor.
“Sma’am” by Kalea McNeill is a hilarious and authentic take on her life journey as a black lesbian. The uproarious stand-up special premiered at the inaugural Laugh After Dark ComedyFest in 2022, gaining recognition not just for its comedy but also for the unique venue where it was filmed, The Crow Comedy in Santa Monica, a venue featured in an LA Times article. Kalea McNeill has performed on some of the most iconic comedy stages worldwide, including The Comedy Store, The Comedy Union, and Flappers. Her charismatic performances have earned her guest and co-star spots on various popular networks like FX, CBS, TruTV, and TNT, showcasing her incredible acting range. She’s also been featured in the hit show “Animal Kingdom” on TNT and CW’s “Crazy Ex Girlfriend.”
Trixx’s “Po’ Boy” provides a refreshing perspective, capturing the essence of living and working in Las Vegas, his love for New Orleans, and his childhood obsession with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Trixx’s infectious energy and quick wit have propelled him to become a rising star in the comedy world, with over 250K online followers and performances on renowned stages globally. He’s appeared on several television shows and specials, including the Canadian hit series “Comedy Now!” and MTV’s “Snack-Off.”
This incredible recognition emphasizes the power of comedy and the profound talent within the Laugh After Dark community. It’s a significant milestone for Laugh After Dark, marking the first-ever inclusion on the Grammy ballot. The support, dedication, and community spirit that have guided this journey continue to drive the laughter forward. As voting members of the Recording Academy consider the first-round ballot, Laugh After Dark warmly invites their consideration of these remarkable projects. Here’s to unity, dreams, and a laughter-filled future!
