The Comedy Confluence

Pittsburgh is widely known for re-inventing itself: from steel giant to a leader in medicine, technology and education. Now you can add laughter to the list. The city is gaining a national reputation for its contributions to comedy. Pittsburgh comedy venues are not only bringing in more nationally-known acts, but are producing more comics and troupes who are performing across the county. An increasing number of comedians, improvisers, actors and writers are making their way to New York, Los Angeles and Chicago after honing their skills in Pittsburgh. This documentary presents Pittsburgh as a new center of comedy, exploring what it means to be a young comic through the eyes - onstage and off - of five diverse acts.

The Comedy Confluence aired on Jan 14, 2016.


View more from WQED

Series: Specials

Long Road Home focuses on the compelling stories of Pittsburgh area veterans coping and healing with the emotional wounds of war, after combat in Iraq, Vietnam, Korea, and World War II. The documentary also explores current treatments and research into Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among returning veterans.

Original airdate: May 26, 2011


Original airdate: May 19, 2011


This one-hour special explores the controversial issue of Marcellus  Shale drilling in the Pittsburgh region. Hosted by Chris Moore, the  program features guest panelists who are experts on various issues  related to Marcellus Shale drilling. Tonia Caruso will field questions  submitted through WQED's web site and Facebook page and present them to  the panel.

Original airdate: Mar 31, 2011


We'll hear from survivors, law  enforcement, local women's shelters and mental health professionals  working to help survivors and families put their lives back together. We  will also air a special report on domestic violence along with clips  from the documentary Telling Amy's Story.

Original airdate: Nov 18, 2010


Western Pennsylvania is sitting on what seems like an endless source of natural gas. The drilling promises jobs to a struggling economy, but at what cost? Environmental groups fear the drilling is a disaster waiting to happen and some homeowners say the process has already contaminated their drinking water.

Original airdate: Nov 04, 2010


This documentary follows the emotional story of a Pittsburgh-area mother who lost her 16-year-old son to suicide. Kathy O'Hern Fowler would emerge as one of the region's best-known advocates for "Survivors of Suicide." The program also focuses on fascinating Pittsburgh research that is testing the brains of teenagers with thoughts of suicide. This Emmy winning documentary is from writer/producer David Solomon with camera/editing by Paul Ruggieri.

Original airdate: Oct 22, 2009


Pages