Okmulgee Comedian Finds Calling in Laughter

David Motte's unexpected journey into stand-up comedy aims to bring community together through humor and creativity.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:07pm

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A high-contrast, neon-colored silkscreen print of a comedy microphone repeated in a grid, capturing the vibrant energy and pop art spirit of a local comedy scene.A local comedian's unexpected path to the stage has become a source of community connection and mental health support through the power of laughter.Coffeyville Today

David Motte, a poet-turned-comedian in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, discovered his talent for stand-up comedy by accident during a poetry event seven years ago. What started as a spontaneous moment on stage has grown into a calling, as Motte now uses his ability to make people laugh as a form of 'medicine' to provide relief from the stresses of daily life. Motte will be hosting an open mic night on April 4th, inviting the community to share in the creative and connective power of humor.

Why it matters

In a world filled with more stress and hardship than many are willing to admit, Motte's approach to comedy as a means of community building and mental health support highlights the deeper therapeutic value of laughter. His story underscores how unexpected creative outlets can emerge and flourish when given the space to do so, especially in tight-knit local communities.

The details

Motte, who describes himself as a poet at heart, discovered his talent for stand-up comedy by accident during a poetry event seven years ago. After a spontaneous comment drew laughter from the audience, Motte decided to try his hand at comedy. His first official stand-up performance, which was intended to be a brief opening segment, ended up stretching much longer as the audience continued to respond positively. This experience confirmed for Motte the powerful impact that humor can have, as he believes that making someone laugh, even briefly, has the potential to change the trajectory of their day or even their life.

  • About seven years ago, Motte was hosting a poetry event when he made a spontaneous comment that drew laughter from the audience.
  • Soon after, Motte found himself performing stand-up comedy for the first time in Coffeyville, Kansas, in front of hundreds of people.
  • On April 4, 2026 at 8 p.m., Motte will be hosting an open mic night at Tavern 56 in Okmulgee, inviting the community to share in the creative and connective power of humor.

The players

David Motte

A poet-turned-comedian in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, who discovered his talent for stand-up comedy by accident during a poetry event seven years ago. Motte now uses his ability to make people laugh as a form of 'medicine' to provide relief from the stresses of daily life.

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What they’re saying

“If I say something one more time and they laugh, I'll try comedy”

— David Motte, Comedian

“You get on that stage … somebody in that audience might be thinking about killing themselves tonight. If I can make them laugh for five or ten minutes, I possibly could change their mind.”

— David Motte, Comedian

“Funny is funny … I ain't never seen a color on a laugh.”

— David Motte, Comedian

What’s next

On April 4, 2026 at 8 p.m., Motte will be hosting an open mic night at Tavern 56 in Okmulgee, inviting the community to share in the creative and connective power of humor.

The takeaway

Motte's unexpected journey into stand-up comedy and his belief in the therapeutic power of laughter highlights how creative outlets can emerge and flourish when given the space to do so, especially in tight-knit local communities. His story underscores the deeper value of humor as a means of community building and mental health support.