Santa Barbara High alumnus Orr Redko produces a local, monthly comedy show called Laughing Nomad with a purpose behind the entertainment. He wants to use humor to entertain, but also someday to help military veterans cope with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Redko’s next comedy show is at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 15 at the Community Arts Workshop, 631 Garden St., Santa Barbara.

The show’s lineup will feature comedians Jessica Inserra, Usama Siddquee, Lauren Valentine, Jessica Johnson and Samantha Bearman, with Redko as host.  

The show is BYOB and for adults 21 years or older. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.facebook.com/laughingnomadcomedy/.

Redko played football at Santa Barbara High, class of 2006. After graduating, he served as a squad leader in the Israeli Defense Forces in a Special Operations Reconnaissance Company overseas.

Following his military service, Redko continued his education and graduated cum laude from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a bachelor of science in business.

In November 2018, he decided to pursue stand-up comedy. He moved back to Santa Barbara and could see there was a local market for comedy shows.

Adjusting to civilian life was difficult, Redko said. He spent many years battling depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.