Although Helene Angley of West Windsor has a serious side, a serious background, and a serious job, she makes people laugh on weekends. A rising star in the comedy world, she now has shows at Grover’s Mill Coffee House and at Hopewell Valley Vineyards.
Born in Detroit, she was raised in California and graduated from Long Beach State University with a degree in chemistry. She moved to New York City where she received a master’s degree in forensic science from John Jay College and met her husband, Tom, when she was working in the forensic department with the New York City Police Department. She has since moved on to the service and support side of pharmaceuticals with the Waters Corporation based in Milford, Massachusetts. He works for Zurich Insurance Company.
The couple moved to a new house in a new development in West Windsor because they knew about the area from her aunt and uncle who lived in Lawrenceville and his parents who lived in West Windsor. “We also enjoy paying high taxes,” she says. Their two children were born in Princeton Hospital.
Their son, Ryan, is in ninth grade at High School North. Their daughter, Dana, is in seventh grade at Community Middle School. “They are great supporters of my comedy,” she says. “I often perform PG-13 acts for them and their friends.”
Several years ago she saw an advertisement for comedy classes on the bulletin board at the old Acme Market. She thought, “why not?” and took two semesters before auditioning for “Last Comic Standing.” During the callback (she did not make the cut) she was offered a spot in an eight-week training program on how to better yourself as a comic. “It was a wonderful opportunity as they only take 12 comics a year,” she says. Four of them “survived” and still perform, often together.
She performed at Gotham Comedy Club in New York City for three years. “It was a big strain on the family and the kids learned to make their own dinner,” she says. “With the economic change I looked to see what was local just as Grovers Mill Coffee House opened. They have been so wonderful and supportive.”
Angley has had her own comedy show on the third Friday every month beginning last June. “I bring New York City comics to the area and it is a win-win situation for everyone,” she says. When comedians perform in New York City they must bring people — often friends — in to see them.
She was recently at Hopewell Valley Vineyards and thought that it was a great venue. Angley met with Violetta Neri who was very receptive and said, “Let’s do it!” Angley will now produce and host one show every quarter at the vineyards.
Performers at the comedy night on Saturday, April 10 include New York City comics, Mike Warsaw, Tom Ragu, Lori Summer, and Nick Cobb. Brick oven pizza and wine by the glass or bottle are available for purchase. There is a $10 admission charge.
“Although my family is one source of material, I tend to observe life in general,” says Angley. “I try not to make my husband the end of every joke.”
Comedy Night, Hopewell Valley Vineyards, 46 Yard Road, Pennington. Saturday, April 10, 6 to 8 p.m. Mike Warsaw, Tom Ragu, Lori Sommer, Nick Cobb. Helene Angley hosts. $10. 609-737-4465. www.hopewellvalleyvineyards.com.
Comedy Night, Grover’s Mill Coffee House, 335 Princeton Hightstown Road, West Windsor. Friday, April 16, 8 p.m. Helene Angley of West Windsor and three guest comics. Open mic follows. Sign up at 7:45. 609-716-8771. www.groversmillcoffee.com.
