The Lonely Hearts Art Club is back, this time taking the stage — and the sketchbook — with an innovative mental health event that puts laughter front and center.
Titled “All Jokes Aside,” the evening brings together comedians, community members and creatives at Wake the Dead Coffee House on Tuesday, July 30, from 7 to 10 p.m. for a free, public event where attendees are invited to draw live stand-up comics as they perform, sip coffee and reconnect with themselves and each other.
The concept blends live comedy with visual art in a warm, low-pressure setting. Attendees will be provided free art supplies, and no experience is necessary.
“It’s not about being a great artist,” event organizer Melissa Doss said. “It’s about showing up, creating something and letting laughter open the door to healing.”
The event is a spin-off of Wake the Dead’s regular Tuesday night comedy series, The Laughing Dead, and marks a continued expansion of Lonely Hearts Art Club’s mission: using creative outlets to build mental health awareness and encourage public dialogue around healing.
“When you laugh, your body releases feel-good chemicals like endorphins and dopamine,” Doss said. “It improves mood, reduces stress and strengthens community connection. That’s what this night is all about.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, laughter also stimulates circulation, aids muscle relaxation and can improve immune response — making it not only good for the spirit but also for the body.
The Comedy Lineup:
• Mitchell McMullen — Instagram: @McMullenComedy69 A Florida transplant and Central Texas local McMullen has been performing stand-up for nearly two years, bringing sharp personal humor and heartfelt reflections on life, anxiety and healing. He runs a monthly open mic at The Porch in San Marcos and has quickly become a familiar face in the local scene.
• Ethan Martinez — Instagram: @eisme247 Named Austin Upstage Comedy Club’s Newcomer of the Year for 2024, Martinez is one of the fastest-rising comics in the region. Based in San Antonio and active in Austin, Martinez combines introspective takes with punchy, crowd-winning delivery.
• Davy Adkins — Instagram: @slayviid A Health Science major at Texas State, Adkins is new to the stage but deeply rooted in stand-up as a lifelong fan. “Humor has always been my way of coping with heavy emotions,” he said. His comedy is honest, reflective and laced with quiet insight.
• Jack Schutze — Instagram: @jackschutze From the kitchen to the stage, San Marcos’ own Schutze blends chef ’s grit with political wit. He produces five comedy shows throughout Hays County and performs statewide. His act touches on culture, climate and the absurdity of modern life — all with the goal of making us laugh, not feel shame.
• Jason Johnson — Instagram: @jason_johnsoncomedy After 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, Johnson has traded uniforms for microphones, touring the Texas comedy circuit from Shreveport to Laredo. His observational humor and grounded storytelling reflect a life of service and a love for connection.
Organized by Lonely Hearts Art Club, a grassroots creative wellness group, “All Jokes Aside” is part of a growing movement in San Marcos to reimagine how we approach mental health. The group has hosted pop-up art parties and grief-centered creative workshops across the San Marcos area.
“This isn’t therapy,” Doss said. “But it’s therapeutic. It’s a soft landing spot for anyone feeling overwhelmed, isolated or in need of something different.”
The sketching element adds a unique, interactive layer. Guests are encouraged to sketch the comedians while they perform, whether it’s stick figures, abstract doodles or more detailed work. “It gets you out of your head,” Doss said. “And sometimes, the best way to process your emotions is to laugh while your hand is moving across a page.”
Wake the Dead Coffee House is a long-time supporter of local creatives, musicians and artists. Their Tuesday night Laughing Dead comedy series has become a launchpad for emerging comics and a consistent gathering space for students, artists and community members alike.
“All Jokes Aside” builds on that vibe, offering an intimate, healing-centered twist on open mic comedy.
Follow the Lonely Hearts Art Club on Instagram at @lonelyheartsartclub to learn more about future events, donate supplies or join the movement.
“All Jokes Aside” is more than a comedy show. It’s a reminder that laughter is a creative act — one that can change lives, sketch by sketch, one punchline at a time.
