Queen of comedy works' next chapter could include a reality TV show.

• Author: Cote, Mike
• Position: HOSPITALITY

AS WENDE CURTIS CELEBRATES THE 30TH anniversary of Comedy Works in downtown Denver and the third anniversary of her second club in Greenwood Village, she doesn't have more brick and mortar on her mind.

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What's next likely will be more on the creative side: books, speaking engagements and a reality TV show.

"I think it would be awesome to bring me back around to do some creative stuff. It would really be good for me personally as well for the organization," said Curtis, who will be shooting a short video in December before trying to shop the concept.

For Curtis, who studied acting, directing and voice at Colorado State University, it would be a chance to reconnect with the creative side that has helped her find success working with the country's most popular comedians.

"It's always been in my blood, and it's always been part of how I think," said Curtis, 48. "I think I understand a little bit about an artist's brain, a performer's brain. Honestly, I don't think there are many artists who are also brilliant businesspeople."

Curtis doesn't need to toot her horn about that. People like "Saturday Night Live" veteran Darrell Hammond are quite happy to do it for her. Hammond, who recently performed at a Comedy Works anniversary show for industry types, has long been a regular at Comedy Works, and he's particularly fond of the original Larimer Square club, which is essentially a cave in the basement.

"She's brilliant. But she's got an artist in her, and that's a rare combo in my experience," Hammond said in the green room after his performance. "I've only run across two or three people in my life who have a keen business sense but who are at heart artists. It's a rare blend. And that's why this room is so great."

Hammond said he doesn't do standup comedy much anymore, but he took...