RUMFORD — Scot Grassette believes towns can write their own comedy without even trying.

Grassette, owner of 49 Franklin in Rumford, and a group of actors from around Oxford County have been meeting since November writing skits for a comedy show that is scheduled for March.

Grassette said the show is modeled after NBC’s hit series “Saturday Night Live.” He first thought of the idea for the comedy and pitched it to his friend, Duane Glover, more than 14 years ago, he said.

Most all of the actors have contributed to writing the skits, which include acts such as really desperate housewives of Oxford County and a skit on whoopie pies.

“We were originally going to do the show for the access channel but things never worked out,” Grassette said.

After purchasing an old church and turning it into a function hall, with a theater upstairs, Grassette decided it was time to go into production.

Grassette said he started contacting people whom he knew had connections.

“It kind of became a community of comedy that pulled together,” he said.

Nancy Deming, who has been performing for more than 20 years and was part of the Wingnuts Improv Troupe, is helping to direct the show.

“I love original material,” she said. “Regular laugh-out-loud comedy is an asset to the community and I wanted to be a part of it.”

Carlo Puiia, town manager for Rumford, will be the guest host and perform in skits.

“Carlo is even writing his own monologue,” Grassette said.

When asked how much work goes into a large production, such as an SNL show, both Grassette and Demings said it was easy.

“It’s not really work when you are having this much fun,” Deming said.

The production will have two shows scheduled from 8 to 10 p.m. on March 2 and 9.

Grassette said he will be offering a minimum bar of beer and wine, but wants to promote business in Rumford also.

“I’m hoping folks will go out somewhere to eat before and possibly hit some of the nightlife in town after the show,” he said.

Grassette also said he was selling commercial space during the show.

“During breaks in the show I’ve invited businesses to come up and do a quick live commercial,” he said. “I’m charging $25 for one show and $40 for both and most of the businesses I’ve talked to have all said they would do it.”

The show will also feature a musician named Noel Palmer, who Grassette says has been a local music icon for years.

Grassette says he hopes to have more shows in the future.

“I just hope people get used to doing things here in Rumford instead of going out of town,” he said.

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