Beyond the Punchline

JOIN US! June 26, 2025

Where does comedy cross the line between funny and foul? Who decides what’s acceptable in art—and what should be off-limits?

Join American Public Square for an evening of conversation and candid reflection on the intersection of humor, art, free speech, and cultural boundaries. At a time when comedians and artists are navigating increasingly complex social norms, we’ll explore the tension between creative expression and social responsibility. When is offensive comedy or art just that—offensive—and when is it a necessary tool for social commentary or truth-telling?

Hosted at the local comedy club, First Amendment Brew Haha, this event features local voices from the comedy world, including Steve Kramer, owner of the First Amendment Brew Haha, and Elliot Threatt, veteran comedian and cultural commentator. Together with other panelists (to be announced), they’ll reflect on the evolving role of comedy and art in civic life, the pressures of cancel culture, and what it means to push boundaries in an era of polarization.

Enjoy a special beer by Vine Street Brewery created especially for First Amendment Brew Haha. There will also be non-alcoholic beverages including First Amendment Brew Haha’s signature coffee.

After the Program! Stick around for a performance by Elliot Threatt! All registrants for the event get free admission into Elliot Threatt’s 7:30 pm performance.

First Amendment Brew Haha is a newly opened comedy venue located in the Legends Outlets shopping district in Kansas City, Kansas. Situated at 1867 Village West Parkway, the club is designed as an intimate space dedicated to stand-up comedy and live performance. The venue offers a focused environment for comedic acts ranging from local performers to national touring artists.

The venue takes its name from the First Amendment, signaling a focus on free expression and the role of comedy in exploring cultural and social boundaries. This makes it a fitting location for conversations and events that examine the intersections of humor, speech, and public discourse.

Learn more here.

Steve Kramer, is an accomplished voice artist, comedian, animator, musician, and guitar builder.

Beyond the recording booth, Kramer has toured internationally for over two decades with his stand-up comedy, mastering more than 100 voices. His comedic performances often blend traditional monologue with voice impersonations, songs, beatboxing, and animated cartoons. A true innovator, Kramer also builds custom guitars, notably crafting one from a Millennium Falcon toy. His animation work has been featured at the “Just For Laughs” festival, and he has been recognized for his writing and editing skills on projects with notable names like Ridley Scott.

As a Kansas native, he is opening the First Amendment Brew Haha Comedy on June 18, 2025. This location was close to his heart as he was one of the first and last comedians to perform there when it was previously Stanford and Sons.

Elliott Threatt has been playing the comedy game for more than 40 years. Elliott’s first released CD, “Biscuits Made From Scratch and Other Funny Stuff,” was nominated for a Grammy. For over 40 years, Elliott Threatt has entertained audiences around in all 50 states and in 6 countries. Along the way Elliott was nominated for a Grammy for Best Spoken Word Comedy and won an Emmys. In the late 1980’s, Elliott was the runner up behind Ellen Degress’ in SHOWTIME’s Funniest person in American Completion.