Because They’re Funny (BTF) Comedy Festival, hosted by the leading entertainment company in the event tourism arena, NICE CROWD, will feature Anthony Anderson, Yvonne Orji, Nicole Byer and Donnell Rawlings plus comedic talent within BIPOC communities. The much-anticipated event will take place from October 6th through the 8th, 2023 at The Wharf on DC’s southwest waterfront, including Union Stage and Pearl Street Warehouse.
BTF, from the producers of the American Black Film Festival, will promote the diverse talent that exists within the comedy arena to propel a new generation of artists to stardom. The centerpiece event will be the “2023 Breakout Comedian Of The Year Competition Finals” on Friday, October 6. The contest, hosted by BTF’s ambassador, Anthony Anderson, aims to discover emerging comedians from around the world and guide them to successful careers in Hollywood. With more than 300 submissions to date, only six finalists will be chosen to perform at BTF, competing for a $20k grand prize and a chance to be signed by Innovative Artists talent agency.
On Saturday evening, The Anthem will welcome some of the best female comedians in the business for the “Hey Ladies Fierce Female Comedy Show,” featuring performances by Luenell, Aida Rodriguez, Ego Nwodim, Nicole Byer and more. Sunday’s headline event will shine a light on DC as a hub for comedy, featuring the exclusive DC premiere of “The Mecca of Comedy” directed by Parrish Smith, a documentary on the legacy of Black comedy in the region. Following the documentary’s debut, Yvonne Orji will host the “DMV Black Comedy Homecoming Show,” an evening of laughter in celebration of the top standup comics from the DC area, with performers including Donnell Rawlings, Red Grant, Pierre, Joe Clair, Tony Woods and more, returning to their hometown.
The festival’s headline shows will be held at The Anthem, with additional events including panels and podcasts, screenings, workshops, networking opportunities, open mic nights and more, to be held at other venues throughout The Wharf, including Union Stage and Pearl Street Warehouse.
Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival is a property of NICE CROWD, a leading entertainment company in the live events arena, and is presented in partnership with Events DC, the official convention and sports authority for the District of Columbia. Tickets to Because They’re Funny are on sale now at becausetheyrefunny.com.
About NICE CROWD
NICE CROWD, formerly ABFF Ventures, is a leading entertainment company in the event tourism arena. NICE CROWD specializes in the development and marketing of festivals and other live experiences that showcase BIPOC culture and achievement while promoting travel to leading destinations around the world. To learn more about NICE CROWD events, visit www.nicecrowd.com. BTF partners and sponsors to date are Events DC (Presenting Partner); General Motors (Presenting); LAFF MOBB (Supporting).
About Events DC
Events DC, the official convention and sports authority for the District of Columbia, 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. For more information, please visit www.eventsdc.com.
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Source: NICE CROWD, Events DC