Dam Short Film Festival Presents “A Night of Comedy” Nov. 11

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko

Silent auction, light bites, networking, and a night of laughter in downtown Las Vegas

by Debbie Hall

As the 22nd Annual Dam Short Film Festival approaches in February 2026, film lovers can get an early dose of laughter and cinematic magic with “A Night of Comedy” on Tuesday, Nov. 11, at The Beverly Theater in downtown Las Vegas.

This special 90-minute showcase features a hand-picked lineup of ten short comedy films from four countries, offering a joyful mix of humor, creativity, and storytelling from the festival’s past decade.

“Ken [Cioe, Board Member and Director of Operations] spends a lot of time every year programming the comedy block for the actual festival,” shared Mathew Stowell, Director of Communications and slot machine animator at Aristocrat Gaming. “He had a lot of fun comedy films in mind—and we all agreed it was time to bring them back to the big screen.”

Cioe proposed the concept to the Dam Short Film Society Board, and the team enthusiastically supported the idea. After reviewing more than eight years of past festival entries, they narrowed the list to ten audience favorites, including three international selections.

Guests are invited to arrive for a 6 p.m. reception featuring light bites, networking, and a silent auction, followed by the 7 p.m. screening. Proceeds from the evening—tickets are $46—benefit the Dam Short Film Society, supporting its mission to champion short films and independent storytellers.

Silent auction highlights include:

• Original artwork by Lee Lanier

• A helicopter tour courtesy of Papillon Las Vegas

• A kayak adventure from BC Adventures

  
  

The Beverly Theater has generously donated its venue for the event—a gesture that Stowell says embodies the collaborative spirit of Las Vegas’ creative community.

“It’s a beautiful venue. They’re really classy, and we’re fortunate that they want to help us out,” said Stowell. “Las Vegas is lucky to have such a nice theater.”

Beyond the laughter, the evening aims to strengthen the bond between the Las Vegas and Boulder City arts communities while raising awareness for the upcoming 22nd Annual Festival.

“We’re very involved in both the festival and the community,” Stowell added. “Our volunteers help out at events year-round—from Wine Walks to the Fourth of July. We take pride in giving filmmakers a platform to shine and share their passion projects.”

Held annually in Boulder City, the Dam Short Film Festival is one of Nevada’s most cherished celebrations of short filmmaking. “A Night of Comedy” gives audiences a chance to laugh together, connect, and support the festival’s continued growth.

The Beverly Theater is located at 515 S. 6th St., downtown Las Vegas.

For tickets and more information, visit damshortfilm.org.