Kat Simmons in comedy show at Carson Valley Inn on Nov. 21

Staff Reports

Live comedy returns to the Carson Valley Inn's Shannon Ballroom on Nov. 21 when Kat Simmons will prove that Dreams Do Come True! Joining Simmons will be comedian Dave Mencarelli.

For the last 15 years, Simmons has entertained Northern Nevada residents and hosted Comedy Night Live at the Carson Valley Inn. After working for 22 years as a stand-up comic, and raising her children for the last 16, Simmons' big break came after winning an eWomen Network International Talent contest in Dallas this summer. There were agents and talent scouts in the audience and, after being awarded a perfect score from each judge, Simmons' life changed overnight. She is hitting the International circuit, with two trips planned to Canada this fall, and is entertaining a number of national offers and opportunities as a result of her winning performance.

In this show, Simmons will do some of her traditional material, new material and share the joy and excitement of winning this competition with everyone who has shared in her journey to this point.

"I didn't just win, we all did," she said, referring to her local fans. "I only had a few minutes to prove myself and the dream had to be bigger than the fear and, thankfully, it was."

Dave Mencarelli is the epitome of subdued irreverence. His show consists of a twisted trip through his childhood, his "practice" marriage and life in general. From his relatives in Arkansas, to his decidedly politically incorrect take on the world, Mencarelli spins a tale to which most people can relate. Hear about his ex-wife, his crazy mother and his exploits raising his own kids. Toss in some horror stories about dating and you have ample opportunities to laugh out loud.

The Dreams Do Come True! comedy show starts at 8 p.m. Nov. 21 at the Carson Valley Inn. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance and may be purchased at www.cvartscouncil.com/katsimmons or 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday at the Carson Valley Arts Council office in the Copeland Cultural Arts Center, 1572 Highway 395 in Minden. Tickets are $25 at the door.

For information on activities, recreation, history and shopping in Carson Valley, go to www.visitcarsonvalley.org

Link to the talent contest Kat Simmons won in Dallas for eWomen International:

www.ewomennetwork.com/conf2009/GotTalentWinner.html