Press Coverage
North Shore News
Jan 2025
North Vancouver comedian uses laughter to 'Stand Up For Recovery'
"Mark Smith has had a lot of courage throughout his life.
He took a leap trying stand-up comedy to face his fears of public speaking. More than two decades later, Smith has toured festivals across Canada spreading joy and laughter to people.
But the North Vancouver comedian also took courage in another way – celebrating his recovery daily for the past 11 years.
He took his passion for comedy and recovery to create Stand Up For Recovery, a night of comedians and musicians bringing people together to celebrate recovery and healing, taking place this Saturday evening at the North Shore Alano Club."
Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows News
Feb 2025
Stand Up for Recovery brings comedy back to Maple Ridge
"This event is all about coming together as a community to celebrate recovery and healing. We have talented comedians and musicians from all walks of life. We invite local recovery home clients to see what life can be like on the other side of addiction."
Aug 2024
Take a stand for recovery with music and laughter in Maple Ridge
"Smith, who has been putting on these comedy shows in North Vancouver, pays for everything out of pocket: he pays for the venue, the comics, the entertainment, the drinks, and if there is dinner, he covers everyone. He also gives free tickets to people at the recovery home who are new in recovery.
The evening will feature comedians, live music, and a supportive community of individuals, from all walks of life, dedicated to promoting wellness and sobriety.
The One Way Club is a non-profit society that provides a drug and alcohol free, family-friendly social environment for people on the road to recovery. It is also a referral centre and provides volunteer counselling to those affected by addiction."
North Shore News
Mar, 2020
North Van comedian stands up for sobriety
"When you let out a laugh, you leave room for something else to get in – a thought, a memory, or for Mark Smith, a little light.
Smith, a carpenter by profession and a comedian by trade, is getting set to emcee Stand Up For Recovery, a sober showcase scheduled for March 19 at the Alano Club in North Vancouver.
Smith has spent 20 years telling jokes on stage. For the last six years he’s been in recovery. At their best, the two pursuits are both akin to 'poking a pinhole in a dark room,' Smith says."
