The comedians and comedy fans of the city were spoiling for an argument. They are getting one.
The Debaters is a hit comedy program on CBC Radio, but it has also turned into a major credit-builder for the creme of Canada's comedians.
The show puts on live shows all over Canada, recording them for broadcast.
For the first time ever, they are coming to Prince George.
"This is fantastic news! Wow, and so soon," said Mike McGuire, a leader of the local comedy scene and the one who set up the Let's Bring CBC's The Debaters To PG page on Facebook. It was launched in June and almost immediately got the attention of the show's producers.
They gave their definitive answer this week.
"It's inspiring to have a community rally to bring us to town," said producer Phillip Ditchburn.
"We've wanted to visit Prince George for some time and the Facebook page sealed the deal. So, Facebook campaign, big thumbs up. As a CBC Radio show we love knowing we're connecting with our audience and as a show that only records in front of a live audience, it's an honour that people feel strongly enough to get together to make that happen. Oh, and it didn't hurt that the Prince George Citizen made a call to inquire about our intentions."
The format of the show is to have rounds of mock debates between some of Canada's most notable comedians.
There are some regulars, often some new faces (well, really, for the audience at home they are new voices) and sometimes some local talent depending on where they are recording the show.
"It's quite a complex mix of decisions and there are ebbs and flows as certain things come together and others fall away," he said.
"In that mix are the debate topics, matching topics to comics, the diversity of our lineup, finding the balance between new voices and our fan favourites.
"And of course, on top of everything is making sure the evening is the best we can make it."
"I'd encourage all local comics to put their names forward. It would be great to have some local flavour. As well, I'm sure they'd love some submissions for debate themes," said McGuire.
"I'm definitely going to apply to be a debater however I'll buy tickets as insurance. So let's sell it out and guarantee a future visit."
It will all happen on May 16 at Vanier Hall starting at 7:30 p.m.
The actual live presentation is a fuller experience than what gets edited to fit the radio format, so it is a full-scale comedy festival atmosphere for those who attend.
Ditchburn said 12 comedians were involved, plus the technical crew and ubiquitous show host Steve Patterson.
Tickets are on sale now at the CN Centre box office or via the Ticketmaster online system.
