WASHINGTON, DC, (August 15, 2024) – NICE CROWD, in partnership with Events DC, is excited to announce the finalists for the highly anticipated “Breakout Comedian of the Year” competition, part of the second annual Because They’re Funny (BTF) Comedy Festival which returns to Washington, DC September 27-29, 2024.
The “Breakout Comedian of the Year” competition, which will be hosted by award-winning actor and comedian Deon Cole – known for his roles in Black-ish and The Color Purple – aims to discover emerging BIPOC comedians and guide them to career opportunities in entertainment. On August 14 in Los Angeles, 16 comedians were selected from a pool of thousands of applicants to perform live in the Breakout Comedian Of The Year semifinals, with the top six advancing to the final competition in DC.
“Paying it forward, I am excited to be hosting this year’s Breakout Comedian of the Year Competition and to play a role in introducing the next generation of BIPOC artists in the industry at large,” said Cole.
This year’s finalists include Sammy Anzer, Alex Babbit, Flo Hernandez, Lamar Jones, Mel Mitchell and Khrissy Y.S.F. The grand finale, set for Saturday, September 28, promises a $10,000 grand prize and the opportunity for the winner to secure representation by Innovative Arts talent agency.
“Our mission with the Breakout Comedian of the Year competition is to elevate stand-up comedy as a true art form, while highlighting a new generation of diverse talent,” explains Jeff Friday, CEO of NICE CROWD. “We’re proud to continue expanding the horizons of comedy by discovering the next generation of talent and, in partnership with Events DC, bringing these rising stars to our nation’s capital for the ultimate showcase.”
In its inaugural year, the BTF festival was recognized as one of USA Today’s top 10 new events, attracting over 5,200 attendees and 1,000 submissions for the showpiece “Breakout Comedian of the Year” competition. Last year’s winner, Alfred Kainga, was signed by Innovative Arts talent agency and is currently performing in comedy clubs across the country.
“We’re excited to partner with NICE CROWD for the second annual Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival,” says Angie M. Gates, President and CEO of Events DC. “Washington, DC is the best city in the world for entertainment, culture, and more. We’re setting the stage for an unforgettable experience that Washingtonians and visitors from around the world can enjoy. I look forward to welcoming all of the finalists to the District and celebrating the next generation of comedic talent.”
Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival is a property of NICE CROWD, a leading entertainment company in the live events arena founded by Nicole and Jeff Friday. The event is presented in partnership with Events DC, the official convention and sports authority for the District of Columbia. Tickets to Because They’re Funny, including the all-access Laugh Pass, are available for purchase now at becausetheyrefunny.com.
About NICE CROWD
NICE CROWD is a pioneering entertainment company at the forefront of the live events industry. Its passion lies in curating and promoting immersive festivals and live experiences that celebrate the rich diversity of BIPOC talent. By spotlighting exceptional artists and cultural innovators, the company aims to create vibrant and inclusive spaces that resonate with audiences globally.
To learn more about NICE CROWD, visit www.nicecrowd.com.
About Events DC
Events DC, the official convention and sports authority for Washington, D.C., delivers premier event services and flexible venues across the nation’s capital. Leveraging the power of a world-class destination and creating amazing attendee experiences, Events DC generates economic and community benefits through the attraction and promotion of business, athletic, entertainment and cultural activities. Events DC oversees the LEED Gold-certified Walter E. Washington Convention Center, an anchor of the District’s hospitality and tourism economy and the historic Carnegie Library at Mt. Vernon Square. Events DC manages the RFK Stadium-Armory Campus (RFK Campus), including Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium, Festival Grounds at RFK Campus, The Fields at RFK, the non-military functions of the DC Armory and the Skate Park at RFK Stadium. Events DC also built and serves as landlord for Nationals Park, the first LEED-certified major professional sports stadium in the United States. Events DC manages Gateway DC, R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center and Entertainment & Sports Arena all conveniently located in the
Congress Heights neighborhood of Washington, D.C.. For more information, please visit www.eventsdc.com and find us on social media – Facebook, Instagram and YouTube (Events DC), and Twitter (@TheEventsDC) — and on our hub for on-demand event programming on GATHER by Events DC at www.gatherbyeventsdc.com.
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