The final eight up-and-coming stars from a 48-comic field go head-to-head for a $5,000 first place prize. The stage transforms into a comedic battleground, hosting the most talented and quick-witted performers from around the country. The atmosphere is electric, and the competition is fierce, with each comedian vying for the audience's affection and the esteemed recognition of the judging panel.
In addition to the Stand Up Comedy Competition we will be presenting awards to our 2023 honorees who join a distinguished group of previous award winners whose works define the art form and contribute to our rich cultural legacy.
Comedian of the Year Adam Ferrara.
Adam Ferrara the Actor/Comedian/Host who Entertainment Weekly dubbed “Hilarious.” For six seasons Adam co-hosted the critically acclaimed BBC sensation, Top Gear US. He proudly played Chief Needles Nelson on the Emmy nominated FX drama Rescue Me. Adam co-starred with Emmy Award winner Edie Falco on Showtime’s hit series Nurse Jackie. He has also co-starred alongside Kevin James in the hit movie Paul Blart: Mall Cop and Definitely Maybe with Ryan Reynolds. Adam also starred in the CBS show Why Women Kill with GinniferGoodwin, Lucy Liu and an all star cast. Also in the Indie movie Little Italy, currently streaming on Amazon, along side Emma Roberts and Hayden Christensen. His podcast The Adam Ferrara Podcast is a breakout hit, considered a “must listen” by Hidden Remote. Some of Ferrara’s other TV credits include CBS’s The Good Fight, Criminal Minds, Kevin Can Wait, The King Of Queens, NBC’s Law & Order, along with countless late night show appearances. Adam is also one of the top touring comedians in country. Over the years he has released 5 specials and 6 albums. His new comedy album, It’s Scary in Here, debuted number one on iTunes, while his album Unconditional, was Interrobang’s People’s Choice of Album of the Year.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Michael Gross
During his fifty-year career, Michael is perhaps best known for his portrayal of father Steven Keaton on NBC’s award-winning Family Ties. Among his big screen appearances, Michael enjoys cult status among sci-fi and horror fans for his portrayal of survivalist ‘Burt Gummer’ in the 1990 feature film Tremors, its Sci-Fi Channel series, and six sequels. He was recently featured at the 2024 Santa Barbara Film Festival, playing father to actress Heather Graham in her new film, Chosen Family. This night promises to be a rollercoaster of humor, showcasing diverse comedic styles that will leave you in stitches.
Lifetime Achievement Award Stand-Up Comedy: Tony Viveiros
Tony V started doing stand-up comedy in 1982, Tony has made several highly acclaimed appearances in Late Night w/ Conan O’Brien, Comedy Central’s Tough Crowd w/ Colin Quinn, and several sit-coms including Seinfeld, Boston Common, The Single Guy and Dr. Katz, Professional Therapist.
