The Opening Act: Comedy Life & The Desperate Pursuit of Happiness
Larry Noto is the author of “The Opening Act: Comedy, Life & The Desperate Pursuit of Happiness.” The book was co-written by long-time Sun columnist and author Kevin Cowherd, and was published by Loyola University’s Apprentice House Publishing.
The book features Noto’s comedy material as well as a behind-the-scenes look at being the opening act for some of the biggest names in comedy.
You can purchase the book online here


Jingle and Shine LLC
Larry’s latest writing efforts are two children’s books – currently in pre-production.
The Bell That Couldn’t Jingle is a story about a bell that found her happiness through her tears, and The Christmas Bulb That Couldn’t Shine is about a Christmas bulb that finally glows after discovering his purpose. Through gentle, uplifting storytelling, both characters ultimately discover that their perceived shortcomings lead them to a meaningful and unique purpose. Together, these stories encourage young readers to embrace their individuality and recognize their own value.
Jingle and Shine is a collaborative team of four creatives with diverse storytelling backgrounds. Elio Scaccio has spent over 30 years in the entertainment industry and performs with the music and comedy touring group The Sicilian Tenors. His group regularly engages with children through educational performances and a music-themed coloring book they created. Carmela Kuper is a former elementary school teacher with a strong understanding of early childhood learning. Larry Noto is an Emmy-nominated comedian, actor, writer, and singer who has opened for Brad Garrett and Paul Reiser, and is the author of The Opening Act: Comedy, Life and the Desperate Pursuit of Happiness. Carol Saucier is the author of several children’s nonfiction titles, including Explore the Cosmos Like Neil deGrasse Tyson: A Space Science Journey (Prometheus, 2015), The Lucky Man: The Scientist Who Found the Most Famous Fossil Ever!(Prometheus, 2011), and Astronomy Coloring and Activity Book for Kids (Rockridge, 2022). She is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.
Other Works
Noto also co-created “In Buck We Trust” – a humorous t-shirt that captured Orioles fan’s hope of a new season. The shirt was featured on ESPN Baseball Tonight and the MLB Network. “The Most Interesting Elf in the World” – a spoof of the popular Dos Equis commercials was featured on CNBC XM Radio – and “Let’s Go O’s: Magic Unfrozen” played on Baltimore radio.
Loyola Magazine –
Two Guest Humor Essays
Baltimore Magazine –
Guest Humor Column
HBO’s Hobnobber
(internal communications) –
Contributing Writer


