Holy Cannoli Comedy Crew takes on 24-hour laugh marathon for a cause

This weekend, Cincinnati’s improv scene gets a jolt of energy and endurance. The indie improv troupe Holy Cannoli is taking over Northside’s Hoffner Lodge for Fun Filled: The 24-Hour Comedy Revival, a round-the-clock comedy marathon that runs from October 17 to 18. The event will feature multiple acts and benefit the Esperanza Latino Center, which provides vital bilingual services to Spanish-speaking families across Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

Soapbox sat down with Andrew Whelan, one of Holy Cannoli’s members, to talk about the group’s ambitious plans and the spirit driving this community-centered comedy experiment.

When asked what inspired Holy Cannoli to take on a 24-hour comedy marathon, Whelan laughed and admitted that the chaos is part of the charm. The team first attempted a smaller version of the concept last year after winning the Queen City Cup with Improv Cincinnati, and the experience left a lasting impression. What began as a creative experiment soon became something much more like a test of endurance, imagination, and community spirit.

“It was creatively chaotic, but in the best way,” Whelan explained. “There’s something special about staying up all night, trying to be funny while your brain is slowly turning to mush. It strips away all the polish and leaves you with pure, raw creativity.” That sense of spontaneous artistry is what fuels Holy Cannoli’s return to the challenge this year, transforming exhaustion into inspiration and laughter into connection.

Beyond the comedy, Whelan says the group wanted to channel that creative energy into something meaningful. “After we decided to do it again this year, a team member suggested that we make it a fundraiser for Esperanza Center.” All proceeds from Fun Filled: The 24-Hour Comedy Revival will benefit the Esperanza Latino Center; an organization whose mission struck a chord with the team. Supporting Esperanza gave the event a purpose that extended far beyond the stage lights and punchlines.

“They’re doing hands-on, grassroots work by helping Spanish-speaking families navigate everything from healthcare to housing, connecting people to resources, even running a diaper program,” Whelan said. “We wanted the event to have a real, tangible impact beyond entertainment. Making people laugh is great, but helping support a community’s essential needs feels even better.”

As for what attendees can expect during those 24 hours, Whelan promises a little bit of everything. “We’ve got sets from Holy Cannoli, of course, but also local favorites like The Kevin Bauer Power Hour and ComedySportz,” he said. “It’s a celebration of all the different flavors of Cincinnati comedy. Whether you come at 2 p.m. or 2 a.m., there’ll be something happening on stage. And trust me, middle-of-the-night improv hits different.”

Accessibility is central to the event’s design. Tickets are “pay-what-you-can,” with a suggested donation of $25. “Honestly, we just want people to come out and be part of the vibe,” Whelan said. “Every dollar goes to Esperanza, and every laugh keeps us going through hour 23.” He adds with a grin, “Come for the comedy, stay for the delirium. There’s something magical about a community gathered in laughter, especially when it’s for a good cause.”

What: Fun-Filled: The 24-Hour Comedy Revival to benefit Esperanza Latino Center

When: Doors open at 7 p.m. on October 17. The show starts at 9 p.m. and goes to 9 p.m. on October 18.

Where: Hoffner Lodge, 4120 Hamilton Avenue in Northside.

Tickets are available on Eventbrite.