Erie's Funniest: The Comedy Competition
Kellar's looks to pull the region's next great comedic talent out of its hat
BEGINNING FRIDAY, OCT. 17
Erie-born Harry Kellar (1849-1922), aka "The Dean of American Magicians" and the real-life inspiration for L. Frank Baum's The Wizard of Oz, was revered for his ability to captivate an audience and command the room.
At its best, stand-up comedy is its own bit of wizardry – tugging on the common but invisible threads that connect disparate individuals and uniting them in laughter, all within the teeniest-tiniest sliver of time-space.
Kellar's, A Modern Magic & Comedy Club hopes to reveal the region's biggest talents as it hosts Erie's Funniest: The Comedy Competition. This multi-round showcase will feature dozens of contestants from the tri-state area competing for a $500 cash prize, an iHeart Radio spot, and the opportunity to open for headliner Tammy Pescatelli on Dec. 5 and 6.
Kellar's owner Bobby Borgia shares the inspiration: "We wanted to create an event that gives up-and-coming comedians a professional platform while offering audiences a fun, interactive night of entertainment. Comedy competitions have a tradition of discovering breakout talent, and this one is designed to do just that right here in Erie."
The two-night kickoff event commences on Friday, Oct. 17 and continues Saturday, with each prestidigitator of wit allotted five minutes on stage to work their magic. Comedians will be scored by both a panel of judges and audience response. The judging panel includes nationally touring comedian Pescatelli, popular local weatherman John Stehlin (Erie News Now), and radio personality Allan "AC" Carpenter (Rocket 105). Columbus's Funniest finalist and club favorite Lisa Chimenti ("Lisa Ann the Glam Ham") will host, with Edinboro University alum Joe Hengle handling emcee duties.
Judges will evaluate originality, stage presence, timing, and overall performance. Crowd engagement will also play a key role in deciding the winner. Kellar's owner Bobby Borgia outlines the keys to success: "We're looking for comedians who bring originality, strong writing, and undeniable stage presence. The best acts are the ones that not only get big laughs, but also leave a lasting impression on both the judges and the audience."
Those demonstrating that potential during the kickoff will go head-to-head in a series of Wednesday night elimination rounds starting on Oct. 22, with finalists decided by audience vote. It all culminates with the grand finale on Thanksgiving Eve (Wednesday, Nov. 26), with the full judging panel again on hand.
Whose act will the crowd gobble up, and who will be left over? With a smorgasbord of comedic voices and styles on display, it's all a matter of taste – and, of course – presentation. Harry wouldn't have it any other way.
Friday and Saturday, 7 p.m. // Kellar's, 1402 State St. // $15 // kellarsmagic.com
