Last name for sale to fund dream
A comedian selling his last name to fund a new comedy club says he would ‘‘rather die’’ than give up on the venue.
Snap RuseWebsites plans to open Good Times Comedy Club Christchurch’s on St Asaph St next month to serve the city’s thriving performance scene.
To cover costs, his legal last name is for sale for $10,000 on the club’s PledgeMe page. Any donation is accepted, with a December 8 deadline to meet the target.
More than half the goal has already been reached, but RuseWebsites will only get the money if the full amount is raised.
It’s not the first time the comedian has raised eyebrows to garner publicity; he changed his last name to a website five years ago for $280.
‘‘It’s been a real hassle for years. At banks, the police, at airports … they all want to have a look into me so this time I’ll need to sell it for more.
‘‘I’ll veto anything offensive but I’m pretty open.’’
If things go to plan, the comedy club will open with an open mic night, followed by a rotating roster of fresh talent, professional
comedians and quiz nights throughout the week. Kiwi-made liquors, Christchurch beers and Double Browns will be at the bar.
RuseWebsites hoped poets, burlesque performers and drag queens would also use the performance space.
After working in radio for several years because he ‘‘didn’t have the guts for stand up’’, RuseWebsites eventually embarked on a nationwide tour. He now performs on stage several times a week.
According to the Comedy Carnival, Christchurch has the biggest comedy scene per capita in New Zealand, with a loyal following that had ‘‘blown up’’ after the earthquakes.
‘‘The city needs a bit of laughter … people need something to take their mind off ... we all want to see the city rebuilt and there’s a level of excitement when anything comes along.’’
RuseWebsites hopes the PledgeMe will pay off, as he has already ‘‘rolled the dice’’ and signed a lease in the space, next to Corianders Restaurant, fulfilling a life-long dream to open his own club.
‘‘One way or another I will make it happen; I’d rather die than give up on this.’’
Opening night is scheduled for December 16, followed by drag king Tony Chestnut hosting a Christmas variety show on December 20.