Phyllis Stickney Brings Standup Comedy to Bed-Stuy

You might remember her as an actress on "The Cosby Show" in the late 80s, or featured prominently in a slew of popular 90s movies, such as "The Women of Brewster Place," "New Jack City," "What's Love Got to Do With It" and "Malcolm X."

She's Phyllis Yvonne Stickney, perhaps one of the most recognizable faces on screen, at a time when Black television and film was just beginning to come into its own.

And although you may not recount seeing her as much this last decade, make no mistake, Ms. Stickney has been busy. Yes, she's still acting. But now added to her repertoire is writing, designing and launching her own clothing line.

And this Friday, December 2, at Canticles, located at 207 Lewis Avenue (at the corner of Lexington Avenue) in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, Ms. Stickney will debut her latest moxie: Stand up comedy.

"My voice as a comedian has not been heard enough. Right now, comedy is where I feel the least exposed and most fulfilled," Stickney told Bed-Stuy Patch. "I’m ready to return to the comedy stage and bring the voice that I’ve missed sharing."

Reverend Dr. Robert M. Waterman, of Antioch Baptist Church, will present “Live and in Chocolate," the first installment of Stickney's "Laughter and Lyrics" tour where she blends poetry with comedy with song-- all in the comfort of Bedford-Stuyvesant’s first-ever dry lounge (that means no alcohol, folks).

“I am having too much fun,” Ms. Stickney said. “Laughter without liquor means no alcohol-influenced behavior! Since laughter is the best medicine, ‘Live and in Chocolate with Phyllis Yvonne Stickney’ is just what the doctor ordered — and I’m serving it up, real and funny!”

Admission is $20 ($10 for Antioch Baptist Church members). Showtime is 9:30pm, with an open mic session, from 8:00pm - 9:00pm.

The event will be streamed live at www.turnerpayperview.com.