SF Sketchfest 2025

Did you know the Statue of Liberty is Armenian? Yep, the copper used to create this iconic symbol of freedom comes from Armenia. And this is exactly the kind of surprising cultural deep-dive and sharp, hilarious sketch comedy you’ll find at The Big Bad Armo Show, a high-energy celebration of the Armenian American experience, a high-energy celebration of the Armenian American experience.

Spanning 10,000 years of cultural idiosyncrasies—from carpets to Kardashians to the first Christians—this wildly entertaining production shines a spotlight on what it means to be Armenian and American. Created by Groundlings Instructor and award-winning playwright Lory Tatoulian, hailed as “Comedy Gold” by LA Weekly, the show promises an unforgettable night of big laughs and cultural connection.

Featuring a dynamic cast of eight actors, The Big Bad Armo Show blends sharp, smart humor with outrageous improv, live music, and laugh-out-loud sketches. With a mix of unforgettable characters and larger-than-life humor, it’s a fun-house mirror reflecting the rich tapestry of the Armenian-American identity.

This celebrated production has traveled nationwide, delighting audiences with sold-out performances from Los Angeles to a five-show sold-out run Off-Broadway.

And while it honors the deep traditions of Armenian culture, this show boldly emphasizes the “American” in Armenian American—exploring the shared values, contradictions, and what it truly means to be part of this experiment we call America.

Written and Created by Lory Tatoulian
The actors: James Adomian, Helen Kalognomos, Andrew Kapamajian, Ludwig Manukian, Alex Mashikian, Lory Tatoulian, Johnno Wilson, and Kevork Tutunjian.

Music by: Greg Hosharian