Mike Mercury is a stand-up comedian, television host, writer and actor. (We could’ve added some other titles but after seeing those four in print, he’s already very impressed with himself.)

A Wisconsin native, Mike started his comedy career in 1983 in Los Angeles, taking improv classes at the L.A. Connection Comedy Theater, and doing bit parts in television and film. He made the jump to stand-up comedy in 1989 and quickly became a comedy club favorite. In the early 90s, he was the co-host of a popular music and comedy sketch TV show called “Hot Tonight” on Madison’s FOX 47.

Now working primarily in the corporate market, Mike has performed literally thousands of shows for groups of every size and type. From black-tie affairs at swanky hotels for well-heeled People Who Take Themselves Very Seriously, to decidedly more casual occasions like the annual steak feed for the county corn growers at the local VFW hall.

Mike’s broad appeal has led to appearances with a diverse array of artists including Louie Anderson,Bob Saget, Bill Maher, David Lee Roth and Leon Redbone to name just a few. He’s also the only stand-up comedian to have been featured on both Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion and Big Top Chautauqua’s Tent Show Radio, heard nationally on Public Radio.

Mike’s combination of smart observational humor, audience interaction and lightening-quick wit is a sure-fire hit with most any audience.