Alvin Williams loves to laugh. More importantly, he loves to make other people laugh. And that’s exactly what he does. Williams brings his comedy gigs to audiences across the country and overseas.

In these times, the world couldn’t be more in need of a stand-up comic, whether his routine is plain goofy or pragmatically funny, William says.

“Knowing that I have that ability to give that feeling of joy to someone while distracting them from their pain, virtually on command (even if it’s only for a couple moments), is what drives me to be funny,” says Williams, who has been a professional comedian for 11 years.

He has wasted no time making his presence felt, and has done both on the national and international comedy circuits.

As MC for the Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn’s “Comedy Night at the Inn” events, Williams is able to choose what he deems as top talent in the world of hysterical talent and put them in front of audiences to make their cheeks sore with laughter. Some new, some returning, they all have something in common: they’re funny.

“These are people that will truly make you laugh,” he says.

BE HAPPY, LAUGH AT YOURSELF

“Turn a chuckle into a full-blown laugh,” Williams says. “What sick person doesn’t laugh at themselves at least once a day? If they don’t, they need to start. Keeps your abs tight. That’s 100 percent math-science bro.”

Does Williams worry about nerves?

He says he loves what he does too much to let anxiety get in the way.

“Preparation eliminates fear of the moment for me,” he says. “Having a good set-list and a great nap makes me all-powerful. I’m ready for anything thrown at me at that point.”

SUMMING UP MR. W. THE COMEDIAN

It’s hard to be likable when you’re being brutally honest, but Alvin Williams has found a way, and he’ll show you for a small fee. From the little things in life that truly matter, to the big issues that shouldn’t matter at all, Williams finds the funny in all the places you forgot to look.

Whether it’s current events, relationship advice, family life, or pop culture, you won’t know which direction he’s headed next — you’ll just be glad you took the ride with him.

Born in Chicago, Williams shared his childhood between Illinois, Tennessee, Colorado, Oregon, Louisiana, and Idaho, making him a “native son” in many of his performance destinations.

FUNNY FRIENDSHIP

Joining Williams for the upcoming funnyfest in Coeur d’Alene are four established comedians, each unique in their own entertaining way:

Emma Arnold is dubbed America’s fiercest sweetheart. Equal parts outrageous and thoughtful, her standup comedy is engaging, honest, and comes from the heart.

John Roy’s most notable appearance was a spot in the 2003 CBS variety television show “Star Search,” earning him $100,000 and a deal with the network.

Phillip Kopczynski’s stand-up is fun and relatable. He often dissects marriage, small town life, and the insanity of modern life while trying not to make too much fun of his kids.

Ryan McComb is now a regular at Spokane Comedy Club open mics and other performances around town.

Tickets to Coeur d’Alene Comedy Night at the Inn are $15. Reserve tickets by calling 208-765-3200.