Preacher Lawson returns to Orlando as Austin’s Coffee 2.0 revives legendary open mic

Preacher Lawson Credit: Courtesy

On the heels of the release of his latest comedy special, Keep Preacher Weird, Preacher Lawson is stopping by Orlando to mark a milestone close to his heart: the return of the comedy open mic at the newly reopened Austin’s Coffee.

This Sunday, Feb. 1 — as part of Austin’s reopening weekend in bigger Fairbanks Avenue digs — the revived open mic starts at 9 p.m. Craig Norberg will host and 20 to 25 comedians are expected to perform.

While Lawson downplays his role in the event, the open mic’s legacy looms large in his career and in Orlando’s comedy scene. In this conversation, Lawson reflects on what Austin’s has meant to local comedians, how his comedy has evolved across three specials, and why his latest hour feels more honest, personal and confident than ever.

What can people expect on Sunday at Austin’s?

Honestly, I’m probably the worst person to ask. It’s not my coffee shop. I’m just a silent investor, and I’m doing a terrible job of being silent. I’m not really involved in organizing it. But I’ll come through and say what’s up.

Are you excited that the comedy legacy at Austin’s is continuing?

Yeah, I think it’s amazing. Anytime something ends that people love, it’s sad. So to see it come back in a new season is great. Austin’s is a real staple in Orlando — like, in people’s actual lives.

A lot of comedians are tied to that place. Kam Patterson did a lot of time at that mic. Mark Gagnon — who is now on “Flagrant,” one of the most popular comedy podcasts in the U.S. — did his first set there. So many comics I know say Austin’s was the first place they ever went on stage. That kind of history matters.

Your new special is quite different from your earlier ones. How do you see that evolution?

I think I’m just more honest on stage now. My first special, Get to Know Me, was funny, but you don’t really get to know me. The title wasn’t even my idea. The second one, My Name Is Preacher, was a big jump, but it still felt rushed in some ways.

This one feels more personal. I’m more comfortable. It is less performative and more like storytelling.

People often describe you as a “clean” comedian, but this special doesn’t feel boxed into that category.

That means a lot to me. I’m not trying to be clean. I’m just not trying to be offensive. A lot of comedy right now is really dirty, so when someone isn’t, they get labeled “clean.”

I talk about weed, alcohol, sex — adult stuff — but it doesn’t feel gross. I’m not trying to upset people.

I want my comedy to feel like a movie. Like you step out of reality for a second, feel good, and then leave thinking, “OK, life’s not that bad.” I’m not trying to provoke or do political comedy. That stuff just isn’t funny to me.

One of the biggest laughs comes from the Tinder date story, which, you reveal, happened in Orlando.

Yeah, that’s a true story. Everything I say is true … with a little bit of lies. People always ask if the stories are real, and I’m like, “Yes, all of them.” You just shape them so they work on stage.

At one point, you talk about the idea that if someone doesn’t like you, that’s not your business.

Yeah. If someone doesn’t like me, I believe them. That’s fine. That’s not my problem.

That sentiment really lands. It feels grounded and mature.

I appreciate that. I try to bring a little emotion in, not heavy stuff, but honest stuff. Things we all deal with. I want people to feel seen, not attacked.

Watch the special Keep Preacher Weird on YouTube, and then drop by the open mic at new-look Austin’s Coffee, (2240 W. Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park) on Sunday, Feb. 1, at 9 p.m. It’s free!

Comedy night has been happening at Austin’s for over 20 years and will continue every Sunday night at 9 p.m. with originator Craig Norberg at the helm.

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Preacher Lawson returns to Orlando as Austin’s Coffee 2.0 revives legendary open mic

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