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Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival Announces Finalists for 2024 Breakout Comedian of the Year Competition

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.

Media Contact:
The Brand Guild
[email protected]

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Leslie Jones and Deon Cole Named as Headliners for Second Annual Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival, Tickets Now on Sale

From September 27-29, The Festival Will Spotlight BIPOC Comedic Talent and Celebrate DC as a Comedy Hub

WASHINGTON, DC, (July 9, 2024) – NICE CROWD, in partnership with Events DC, is thrilled to announce Leslie Jones and Deon Cole as headliners for the second annual Because They’re Funny (BTF) Comedy Festival, taking place from September 27-29, 2024 at The Wharf and DC Improv. Created for anyone who likes to laugh, BTF’s lineup includes headline shows, the “Breakout Comedian of the Year Competition,” panels, comedy classes, networking events and the “BTF Cares” Charity Fundraiser.

BTF’s flagship “Breakout Comedian of the Year” competition will be hosted by award-winning actor and comedian Deon Cole, best known for his roles in Black-ish, The Color Purple, The Harder They Fall and Average Joe. Up to 16 comedians will be selected from the pool of submissions to perform live at the semifinals in mid-August in Los Angeles. On Saturday, September 28, the six finalists will compete for a $10,000 grand prize and the opportunity to secure representation by Hollywood talent agency Innovative Artists.

On Sunday, September 29, comedy lovers can attend a performance by acclaimed three-time Primetime Emmy Award-nominated comedian and actress Leslie Jones. Jones is known for Saturday Night Live, Our Flag Means Death, Coming 2 America and The Daily Show. In addition to her national tour, Leslie Jones will join the NBC team as chief superfan commentator for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“We’re thrilled to have Leslie and Deon headline the festival and are thankful to our partners at Events DC for supporting this event, which showcases BIPOC artists and brings diverse communities together through levity, camaraderie and culture,” said NICE CROWD CEO Jeff Friday and President Nicole Friday.

This year’s festival will kick off on Friday, September 27, with a charity auction and gala benefiting DC Central Kitchen, a nonprofit and social enterprise that combats hunger and poverty through job training and creation, embodying BTF’s commitment to using comedy as a force for good.

“I am so excited for the return of the Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival to the nation’s capital,” said Events DC President and CEO Angie M. Gates. “This special event showcases the wonderful talent right here in Washington, DC, while giving back to our local community. I am thrilled that major acts, including Leslie Jones and Deon Cole, will join us this year to deliver a world-class festival to comedy fans from around the world.”

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. Festival Passes and individual tickets 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.

Media Contacts:

McKenzie Pickett
[email protected]
(804) 244-1175

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Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival Returns to Washington DC

Enjoy Unmatched Live Comedy, Master Classes, Panels, and the New Comedy Cares VIP Charity Event from September 27-29

WASHINGTON, DC, (April 4, 2024) – NICE CROWD, in partnership with Events DC, is thrilled to announce the return of the Because They’re Funny (BTF) Comedy Festival, a three-day event dedicated to amplifying BIPOC comedic talent. Following its acclaimed debut in 2023, which USA Today named One of the Top 10 New Events of The Year, BTF is back for its second annual installment from September 27-29, 2024, across The Wharf’s venues with performances and events at The Anthem, Pearl Street Warehouse and more.

A spinoff of the American Black Film Festival, BTF aims to propel a new generation of stand-up comedians to stardom and showcase content in the comedy genre that features people of color. In 2023, the BTF festival garnered a tremendous response, drawing more than 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 on a national tour. The event also included notable talent such as Tommy Davidson, Yvonne Orji, DC Young Fly, Donnell Rawlings and Nicole Byer.

“After witnessing the tremendous success of last year’s festival, we’re inspired to adopt a more community-centric approach,” said Jeff Friday, Founder of NICE CROWD and visionary behind BTF. “We are excited to continue our relationship with Events DC and honored to enrich this year’s festival with a local charitable aspect deepening our engagement with the community that surrounds and uplifts us.”

“I am absolutely thrilled to welcome the Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival back home to Washington, D.C., the best city in the world for entertainment, culture, and more,” said Events DC President and CEO Angie M. Gates. “The inaugural festival was a tremendous success and became one of the top 10 new festivals of 2023. This year, I am excited to build upon that success and showcase the best comedic talent within the BIPOC community to residents and visitors from across the country.”

New this year, the 2024 festival kicks off with the “Comedy Cares for DC” event, a VIP showcase and charity roast. This event underscores BTF’s mission to deploy comedy as a force for good.

Over three days, BTF will showcase a dynamic array of talent with headline acts, rising standup comedy stars, master classes, lively panels, networking opportunities and BTF’s flagship “Breakout Comedian of the Year” competition, offering a life-changing $10,000 grand prize and the opportunity for the winner to secure representation by a top Hollywood talent agency.

The call for submissions is now open to comedians across the nation and passes are available for purchase beginning April 15, 2024. Headliners and comedy lineup to be announced early this summer.

2024 BTF partners and sponsors to date are the presenting partner Events DC, and programming partners DC Improv and LAFF MOBB.

To learn more, please visit www.becausetheyrefunny.com.

About NICE CROWD
NICE CROWD, 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, DC, 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, DC. 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 new hub for on-demand event programming on GATHER by Events DC at www.gatherbyeventsdc.com.

Media Contacts:

McKenzie Pickett
[email protected]
(804) 244-1175

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Yvonne Orji, Nicole Byer and More Set for New Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival

The three-day event, taking place on The Wharf from October 6 to 8, will spotlight comedic talent within BIPOC communities and celebrate DC as a comedy hub

LOS ANGELES, (August 2, 2023) – NICE CROWD, formerly ABFF Ventures, today announced the exceptional artists that will participate in the upcoming Because They’re Funny (BTF) Comedy Festival, a three-day festival showcasing comedic talent within BIPOC communities. Taking place October 6-8, 2023 at The Wharf on DC’s southwest waterfront, BTF will feature Anthony Anderson and Maryland-native Yvonne Orji as well as performances by Nicole Byer and Donnell Rawlings, among others.

From the producers of the American Black Film Festival, Because They’re Funny will promote the diverse talent that exists within the comedy arena to propel a new generation of artists to stardom. Attracting comedy fans and industry professionals alike, 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.

“We’re thrilled to bring The Breakout Comedian of The Year competition to life as the showpiece event of Because They’re Funny,” said NICE CROWD founder and CEO Jeff Friday and President Nicole Friday. “With the help of our friend, Anthony Anderson, we will showcase the diversity that exists in the world of comedy, bringing six talented artists to DC for a chance to be launched to stardom. Because They’re Funny provides emerging acts with the chance to share the stage with some of the biggest names in comedy, many of whom started their careers right here in Washington, DC.”

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.

“We are excited to launch the inaugural world-class comedy festival, Because They’re Funny in the nation’s capital and work with Jeff and Nicole Friday of NICE CROWD”, said Angie M. Gates, President and CEO, Events DC. “DC has historically been a hub for comedic talent and Events DC looks forward to being a part of that tradition by providing a backdrop for comedy to be showcased. The DC Wharf is the perfect location and the economic impact for the District is welcomed. From the use of our local venues, The Anthem, Pearl Street Warehouse and Union Stage to tourists visiting the spectacular restaurants and cultural attractions on the Wharf, we could not ask for a better event to attract visitors to our beloved city this October.”

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. Events DC oversees the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, an anchor of the District’s hospitality and tourism economy that hosts more than 1.7 million visitors and generates more than $400 million annually in direct economic impact 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 non-military functions of the DC Armory and the Skate Park at RFK Stadium. Stay current on the 190-acre RFK Campus Redevelopment Project at www.RFKFields.com. 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, DC. 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 new hub for live and on-demand event programming on GATHER by Events DC at www.gatherbyeventsdc.com

Media Contacts:

Clare Zenczak-Murray
The Brand Guild
[email protected]

Liz Biber
The Lede Company
[email protected]

Christy Goodman
Events DC
[email protected]

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American Black Film Festival Producers to Launch a New Comedy Event — Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival Hosted By Events DC

Inaugural Event Will Take Place in Washington, DC, October 6-8, 2023

LOS ANGELES, (February 27, 2023) – ABFF Ventures LLC today announced the launch of Because They’re Funny (BTF) Comedy Festival, a three-day event showcasing comedic talent within BIPOC communities. A spinoff of the American Black Film Festival, BTF will propel a new generation of stand-up comedians to stardom and showcase content in the comedy genre. The festival, programmed for comedy fans and industry professionals alike, will take place October 6-8, 2023, at The Wharf on the Southwest Waterfront in Washington, DC. Events DC, the premier host of conventions, sports, entertainment and cultural events in the nation’s capital, is the festival’s presenting partner.

The centerpiece of BTF is the “Next Up Comedian of the Year” competition, a contest to discover emerging comedians from around the world and guide them to successful careers in Hollywood. Up to 20 contestants will be chosen to perform at the festival to compete for a $25,000 grand prize and talent holding deal with a major studio or network. Comedians interested in the competition are invited to visit www.becausetheyrefunny.com for details. The festival lineup will also feature headline shows, new comic spotlights, celebrity conversations, screenings and exclusive parties. BTF will be promoted nationally, attracting upscale tourists as well as residents of the DMV market.

“We are proud to expand our event properties to include the comedy genre,” said Jeff Friday, founder and president, ABFF Ventures LLC. “BTF extends our 27-year legacy of supporting Black talent and providing pipelines for emerging artists in the entertainment industry. We are thrilled to partner with Angie Gates and the Events DC team to bring BTF to the nation’s capital for the inaugural event.”

“We love welcoming artists and visitors to DC. We also love uplifting Black creatives. We especially like when we can combine welcoming people to DC and celebrating the creative community,” said DC Mayor Muriel Bowser. “A lot of talented comedians have started and grown their careers in DC, and we can’t wait to welcome the future of comedy and comedy fans from across the country to Washington, DC this October.”

“Washington, DC is culturally diverse and inclusive, on top of being a hub for politics, social movements and American culture. The partnership with the American Black Film Festival is a great way to expand our entertainment portfolio to the District and its visitors while supporting future BIPOC talent,” said Angie M. Gates, Events DC president and CEO. “With our multiple theaters and wide variety of performance spaces, the comedians of Because They’re Funny are sure to feel at home and attract audiences ready for a good laugh and a good time.”

“Unlike any other city in the world, we have a dynamic, thriving local, national and international community,” said Max Brown, Events DC chairman. “We welcome the American Black Film Festival’s Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival and guests to see why the nation’s capital is the greatest place to live, work and play.”

The American Black Film Festival has a long legacy of supporting emerging Black comedians, dating back to its inception in 1997. Many of today’s biggest names in comedy have performed at the festival in the early stages of their careers including Kevin Hart, Cedric the Entertainer, Mike Epps, Craig Robinson, JB Smoove, Chris Spencer, D.L. Hughley, Sheryl Underwood, Earthquake, Tommy Davidson, Bill Bellamy and Ricky Smiley among others.

For more information about Because They’re Funny, including passes and submission information, visit – www.becausetheyrefunny.com.

About ABFF Ventures LLC
Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival is a property of ABFF Ventures LLC an entertainment company specializing in the production of live events and platforms that celebrate Black culture and achievement. The company’s flagship property, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, is the leading festival of is kind showcasing Black storytelling. Dedicated to the belief that diverse artists deserve the same opportunities as their mainstream counterparts, Friday conceived the festival as a vehicle to strengthen the Black entertainment community by fostering resource sharing, education and artistic collaboration. Having premiered the work and encouraged the careers of many of today’s most successful filmmakers and actors, the ABFF has become the standard-bearer of excellence for Black American creativity. Embarking upon its 27th year, the festival has become a key proponent of diversity in Hollywood, providing a platform for emerging Black artists. For more information visit, www.abff.com. Find us on social media @ABFF on Twitter and @AmericanBlackFilmFestival on Instagram and Facebook.

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. Events DC oversees the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, an anchor of the District’s hospitality and tourism economy that hosts more than 1.7 million visitors and generates more than $400 million annually in direct economic impact 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 non-military functions of the DC Armory and the Skate Park at RFK Stadium. Stay current on the 190-acre RFK Campus Redevelopment Project at www.RFKFields.com. 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, DC. 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 new hub for live and on-demand event programming on GATHER by Events DC at www.gatherbyeventsdc.com

Media Contact:

Chelsye J. Burrows
ABFF Ventures LLC
[email protected]

Christy Goodman
Events DC
[email protected]