Comedian Jeremy Seay says nobody laughs anymore.

"There's so much going on in everyone's life," Seay said. "Gas prices are up, the economy is suffering. People need an outlet from all that stress."

For the last couple of months Seay has held a comedy show at Spondivits Bar and Grill in Cumming. The program features professional comics and local talent.

This type of entertainment is new to Cumming, said Seay, adding that good, local stand-up comedy is "something this city has never seen."

Forsyth County resident Carla Reid agreed, saying stand-up comedy is "exactly what Cumming needs."

Reid attended last month's show with her children, Chance, 18, and Destini, 16. She plans to attend tonight's "Comedy Showdown" as well, which is scheduled for 9 p.m. at Spondivits.

Seay said for people who have only seen comedians perform on television, the experience is "much different" in person and the connection between the audience and the performer is often lost on the screen.

"One of the best things about being on stage ... is encouraging people in the crowd," Seay said. "You never know who's gonna be in the audience. It could be someone who's really down on their luck and seeing a comedy show could be exactly what they need."

The show drew more than 100 people last month, and Spondivits night manager Mike Klein said it's "got people talking."

Klein advised that much of the material at the beginning of the show is safe for all ages. As the evening wears on, however, the material becomes "a little less family friendly."

Reid, who is looking forward to tonight's offerings, said it's "clean enough during early hours."

The program features several comics, including headliner Big Keith, who travels the national comedy circuit, as well as some Forsyth County residents who, after seeing last month's show, decided to give it a try.

"I've had a lot of people from the area calling me, asking me if they can audition," said Seay, adding that he's considering an "open mic" night in the future.

Tonight is the last chance to see the show without having to pay a cover charge. There will be a $5 per person fee next month.

"I want to build a following with these shows," he said. "I just want to bring some fun into this town, something different."