In spite of Counting Crows stealing the attention of many college students, comedians Dennis Sheehe and Ellen Cleghorne put on an outstanding show at Starbusters Bar and Grill, 930 Pappas Drive.

Sheehe, whom has been touring with Cleghorne for the last two weeks, opened the show to less than 50 audience members. During Sheehe’s performance, however, the latecomers took their seats, making it more of a full house for Cleghorne.

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Cleghorne’s relaxed style was well-received.

“Ellen is awesome,” said Scott Honeycutt, DeKalb resident. “She did a great job.”

Cleghorne felt comfortable performing at Starbusters, especially after large venues and the set of Saturday Night Live.

“I think each place is individual and has its own character,” Cleghorne said.

An element that added to the relaxed atmosphere was DeKalb’s college scene.

“It’s totally different in an atmosphere where alcohol is being served, but each one is fun,” Cleghorne said.

Students were excited to see a famous comedian at Starbusters.

“I like watching stand-up comedy but I don’t know any big names who would come to a cornfield,” said Jenna Speight, freshman undecided major. “When I was looking through the paper, I saw her picture and decided to see this lady from Saturday Night Live.”

Starbusters is planning on continuing with a comedy series every Wednesday followed by karaoke.

“I enjoyed it and I’d like to see more comedians come out,” said Beth Mulsoff, senior elementary education major.

People are looking forward to see who’s next on Starbusters list of comedians.

“There’s a bunch of people I’d like to see,” said Kevin Patterson, who was just passing through town and happened to see the sign for Cleghorne. “I want to see some top of the line comics.”

Cleghorne is wrapping up her Midwest tour and will begin to promote her new comedy CD with yet another tour. She loves comedy as much as acting and is happiest when she’s working.

So will Cleghorne stop by DeKalb again?

“My calender is a little full, so I won’t be returning any time in the near future,” she said, “But you never know.” Ben Devries photo

Comedian Ellen Cleghorne performed at Starbusters Wednesday evening as the second act

of a comedy show.