Terrence Yon

Terrence Yon grew up in southern Arkansas, spending summers on his grandfather’s farm, before moving to Northwest Indiana at age 12. His upbringing was marked by a strong sense of community, exposure to diverse environments, and being an active participant in Boy Scouts. Music played a significant role in his youth, with Terrence participating in marching band and orchestra, and aspiring to study music education. Comedy was present but not central, as he recalls, “I watched a lot of comedy.”

After moving to Austin in 2018, Terrence’s journey into comedy began in earnest post-COVID. That's when he first started attending and eventually performing at open mics. Initially nervous on stage, he found confidence through improv, taking standup classes at ColdTowne Theater with Rochelle McConico. He loved her classes so much he took it twice and as a strategy for taking it a third time, he become her teacher’s assistant. This experience reshaped his approach to stand-up, making it more authentic and enjoyable. Through improv he became less self-critical of his own comedy writing.

Terrence joined forces to co-produce and co-host On The Rise which is currently on hiatus. His newest show “The Crossover,” blends stand-up and improv, and is a fixture at ColdTowne Theater as a house manager and performer. He values community, inclusivity, and authenticity in comedy, aiming "to try and leave the area better." The Boy Scouts influence is definitely there. His philosophy is shaped by his experiences and desire to support others. It's good to find community in a comedy scene. Even better to find good stewards of the scene like Yon.