A sold-out crowd recently enjoyed an evening of laughter, international fare, and music at Buffalo Toronto Public Media’s studios—all to benefit the International Institute of Buffalo (IIB). A resounding success, the Refugees of Comedy event featured established Los Angeles-based comedians Thom Tran, Jose Sarduy, and Jose Barrientos. The internationally touring entertainers drew partly from their experiences serving in the United States military and immigrant upbringing to sow light-hearted narratives and connect with an engaged audience.
The show also featured ethnic food from local restaurants and music by infusion sitar artist Naryan Padmanabha.
Executive Director Jennifer Rizzo-Choi kicked the festivities off by giving an update on the important, and historic part the International Institute of Buffalo plays in Western New York before introducing Thom Tran, a former Vietnamese Refugee and Cheektowaga native. Sarduy is a refugee from Cuba, and Barrientos is an immigrant from Mexico.
Before the show started, a lively crowd enjoyed an eclectic mix of food, beverages, and desserts catered by local vendors. Many also participated in a 50/50 raffle, purchased IIB custom gear, and engaged in other avenues to support our work. Additionally, folks had a special opportunity to grab custom, limited-edition artwork created especially for IIB and signed by Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoonist Adam Zyglis.
Several news channels were on site to cover the show. You can click here to watch WIVB TV’s feature.
All proceeds benefited the International Institute of Buffalo.
If you missed your opportunity to help IIB make WNY a better place for, and because of, immigrants and refugees, you can make your donation here.
