Don Barnhart’s comedy style incorporates physical facial expression along with witty, off-the-wall observations with an upbeat, fast paced, improvisational edge. He has the versatility to go from hip-hop to the corporate world without missing a beat. Don has performed at US Embassies throughout the Middle East, Def Jam Concerts, shows for the hearing-impaired and nudist colonies and he has a Southern California flair and likeability that keeps audiences of all ages howling for more.
Born in Yakima, Washington, Don Barnhart Jr. moved to Southern California at an early age. He went from ice hockey to surfing and then found his interest in performing arts. His involvement in theatre began in high school, creating a solid foundation for his future in comedy. It was then, while his father was directing Mork and Mindy, Don spent his after school time on the set hanging with and learning from comic legends Jonathan Winters and Robin Williams.
Out of school and looking for a job, Don worked as a doorman at The Comedy & Magic Club in Hermosa Beach, CA. As luck would have it, the house emcee got sick and Don Barnhart Jr. was literally thrown onstage in front of Dana Carvey and Dennis Miller. Using his improv ability, Don filled in and that was the opportunity that launched his career.
Don headlines such top comedy clubs as The Improv and Punchlines, across the country. He performs for the USO and Comics On Duty around the world for the troops in Afghanistan, The Middle East, Asia, Europe and the Persian Gulf, and he works over 20 weeks a year for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. In his spare time, Don is also an accomplished writer, director and actor.
Barnhart just released his first comedy special on DVD, which includes his original sketch show, “The South Bay Boys”. His short film, “What Are The Odds?” is currently making the film festival circuit and Don has just finished writing, directing and starring in the feature film, “China Dolls”.
Barnhart’s television appearances include two pilots, the Sci-Fi television show, “Genesis Wars”, MTV, Comedy Central, Star, Search, Evening At The Improv and Friday Night. Don is also a graduate of the Second City Conservatory program in Los Angeles. He resides in Las Vegas, NV with his wife and two cats. When he finds the time, Don also enjoys his two favorite hobbies: beach volleyball and surfing.
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