Onika McLean Does an Hour at The Tiny Cupboard as part of NY Comedy Fest!

This year for NY Comedy Fest Onika McLean (Bravo) will do a full new hour headliner set!

Please grab a ticket ahead of time before it sells out! Only $10 if you get them here ($15 if you wait to get them at the door).

Onika McLean is the life of every party. When she enters the room you’re encapsulated by her beauty and charm. Onika was drawn to the performing arts, envisioning herself on stage, television and ultimately on the big screen. She started out interviewing herself in the mirror, creating scenarios that required witty and spontaneous responses. As the jokester of her family, Onika combined life experiences and humor to discover the levity in every situation.

Onika was married at a young age, far before her frontal lobe was fully developed. It was a tumultuous relationship some would even say toxic. Onika will be the first to tell you that 2 of her greatest accomplishments were born of that union. At this juncture, Onika realized life wasn’t one of her mirror fantasies and she was going to have to make some adult decisions. Raising her daughters to become strong, confident, educated and independent women was paramount. Onika exposed her daughters and afforded them opportunities she did not have growing up. In essence, she put her dreams on hold.

Onika was born and spent her formative years in Raeford, North Carolina. She is very proud of being a “country girl”. At the tender age of 9 her family migrated up North and settled in East New York, Brooklyn. Growing up in Boulevard Houses helped shape and mold Onika. The combination of book smarts and street smarts helped Onika in every facet of life. She did not allow her environment to define her future. Onika enrolled in “America Works” program, which led to her desire to pursue a law career. In the interim, she took acting classes never fully letting go of her true passion. An opportunity arose for Onika’s employer to subsidize her college education. Once again she put her dream on hold opting to take the “safe route” and pursue her Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies. Today, Onika is the Managing Clerk/Paralegal Supervisor for one of the top law firms in New York City.

Now that both of her daughters are old enough to chart their own path and pursue their dreams Onika could focus on “what’s next” for her. Onika discovered a local comedy class and immediately signed up. After taking the course, she fell in love with comedy. Onika was driven by the art of telling a story-particularly the story of women of color-with comedic flair and fashion. Hence the moniker, “Diva of Comedy”. Turning disparity and hurt into transparency through humor ignited a fire within she had never felt before. Onika knew she had found her way. Onika hit the comedy scene with extreme confidence and minimal hesitation. She believes comedy is a gift that can be shared to uplift everyone around you. Onika’s goal is to be a voice for all women so they know it’s never too late to live your best life.

Host or Publisher The Tiny Cupboard