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Rocky Laporte

1/5/2018

 
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Rocky LaPorte’s appeal comes from his everyman, streetwise style of comedy. Delivering laughs in his trademark Brooklyn accent, he has become one of the most sought after comedians in the country, and he just recently appeared on on the season 8 of NBC’s Last Comic Standing! Rocky received 5th place out of 10 contestants. A former Chicago truck driver and dock worker, Rocky has accumulated a slew of performances throughout his career, including being a featured comic on Showtime‘s The Godfathers of Comedy, a special starring five of America’s most hilarious Italian-American comics. On the big screen, he has been seen in two Tim Allen movies – Crazy on the Outside and The Shaggy Dog.

Performances
Rocky traveled with Drew Carey to Iraq to entertain the troops and was seen on the Showtime special Patriot Act: A Jeffrey Ross Home Movie. Rocky has filmed his own Comedy Central Presents special and was voted the network’s second most popular comedian in a nationwide poll. He has performed on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and appeared on A&E‘s Evening At The Improv and VH1‘s Stand-Up Spotlight, along with sitcom appearances on Cheers and his own NBC pilot called the Rocky LaPorte Show.

Rocky has opened for the likes of Garry Shandling, Drew Carey, Tim Allen, Louie Anderson, Hootie and the Blowfish and the Righteous Brothers, just to name a few. His clean, blue-collar style of comedy continues to increase in popularity as he travels the country.

​(www.RockyLaporte.com)

Kat Simmons

1/3/2018

 
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Kat Simmons is a 30 year veteran of the international comedy club circuit. You may have seen her at The Improvs, Catch A Rising Star,  the Comedy Channel, Fox’s Comedy Tonight, or on Candid Camera.  She has toured with The 3 Blonde Moms and won the eWomen Network's international talent contest in Dallas in 2009. 

Kat has a unique talent for combining physical comedy with real life situations that everyone can relate to. She has been favorably compared to the masters of the craft, Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett and Red Skelton. She is one of a few physical comediennes working today. You may recognize yourself in some of her material as she honestly shares with the audience as though they were all long time friends.  She delights in bringing to the stage the very things most people keep a secret.  She speaks the truth, making it easier for the rest of us to be honest with ourselves.

Kat has a versatility and approachability that makes her perfect for large corporate functions, casinos, comedy clubs and private parties. She has a knack of incorporating the group at hand into her show and finding that common thread.  She makes them part of her performance. She has performed for a wide variety of groups from tow truck drivers and fence contractors to doctors and engineers.  She is a favorite at womens' events because she tells it like it is. Her humor is clean and elevates and enlightens her audiences.

She has appeared with Tim Allen, Kevin Nealon, Kenny Rogers, and most recently, legendary motivational speaker, Zig Ziglar. She is in high demand to headline corporate events.  She is not only a comedienne, but an inspirational humorist making her a great choice for your keynote speaker as well.  She loves to share her own spark to ignite yours.

Kat moved back from L.A. to the beautiful Carson Valley (just below Lake Tahoe) , to do what she loves in the area she loves. She came back to have her children and while not in the hub of LA, it provided her with new opportunities. She quickly began doing corporate events and  she produced her own comedy show for 15 years at the Carson Valley Inn Casino, in Minden, Nevada.  She also teaches comedy workshops and it is her greatest joy to help others find their empowerment through humor.

​(www.katsimmons.com)

Geechy Guy

1/3/2018

 
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​Geechy Guy started his career in his hometown of Rochester, MI. Beginning with magic at age 6, then juggling and unicycling at age 12, he settled on standup comedy at the ripe old age of 19. Geech was invited to San Francisco in the late 80’s to compete in the prestigious Comedy Competition there. Finishing in the top 10 out of 500 comics, two years in a row, he headed down to Los Angeles to see what could happen. Shortly after arriving, Geech secured a spot on TV’s “Star Search,” (where he beat Ray Romano among others) and went on to set the record for the most appearances by a comedian. 

Speaking of records, Geech set another one in August ’93 when he told 676 jokes in one hour to land himself a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records. Staying in LA, Geech went on to make over 75 national TV appearances, including three on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” While touring the country as the opening act for the legendary “Righteous Brothers” (200 shows in 4 years), he moved to Las Vegas in 1996 and started to perform there. Three years, over 25 casinos and several cruise ships later, Geech took a yearlong offer to star in a show in Reno, NV (“Nightbeat"). So he, his wife Alta and their two cats Oscar and Emmy (get it?) all headed to “The Biggest Little City in the World.” Buying a home and settling there, Geech was soon asked to star in another show, “The Geechy Guy Happy Hour.” Playing for over three years, the show had successful runs at Harvey’s, Harrah’s Reno, and Circus Circus Reno.  In 2003, the success of the new “Star Search” and the popularity of Ray Romano sparked a renewed interest in Geechy Guy and his career. This led to appearances and mentions on “CBS This Morning,” “Entertainment Tonight,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and “Esquire Magazine.”

In 2004, Geech and his wife decided to make a big change and moved to St. Croix in the US Virgin Islands.  There he performed on cruise ships and casinos.   Returning to the mainland in 2006, Geech spent the summer entertaining at the Tommy Bartlett Show in WI.  Then in 2007 he launched the ambitious “Every Station in the Nation” tour.  During the run of the tour, he performed concerts in over 100 cities where “The Bob & Tom Show” is heard on the radio.

2009 marked Geechy Guy’s return to Las Vegas.  He debuted his original, three man comedy play “The Dirty Joke Show”.  The show has gotten rave reviews and is currently playing nightly at Hooters Casino.  In 2011, he made an appearance on “The Late, Late Show” with Craig Ferguson on CBS.   He also made it to the quarter finals on NBC's "America's Got Talent" and was named 2011 Comedian of the Year by Las Vegas Weekly magazine.  

(www.DirtyJokeShowOnline.com)

Bone Hampton

1/3/2018

 
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​As down home as collards and cornbread, as sharp as a pickaxe, and as funny as a possum in a petticoat, Comedian Bone Hampton is a master at making audiences feel like family. His clean, homespun humor, sharp wit, and easy delivery makes the Dove Award-winning “Comedian of the Year” one of the most highly sought after performers in the business. 

With more than 20 years in the game, his résumé is ever expanding with impressive stage and TV credits. The Texas native has logged countless appearances on ABC’s “The View,” including two stints as Guest Co-Host, and has served as personal gag writer for Actress/Comedienne Sherri Shepherd since 2010. He’s also appeared on ABC’s “Less Than Perfect,” NBC’s “My Name is Earl,” BET’s “Comic View,” and the syndicated talk show Comics Unleashed with host Byron Allen. And yes, that is Bone in the very funny national commercial for Church’s Chicken. 

No stranger to the big screen, Bone has appeared alongside Hollywood juggernaut Sandra Bullock in the romantic comedy “All About Steve,” and can be seen in the film “Woodlawn” starring Sean Austin and Oscar winner Jon Voight.  

When he’s not on set, the comedian/actor answers the call of the road, traveling across the country bringing merriment to the masses. As one of the superstars of clean/Christian entertainment, Bone is the host of JoyFest, the premiere gospel music festival. Bone has toured with the likes of Chonda Pierce, LeCrae, as well as Sherri Shepherd. He credits his success, in part, to “co-laborers in the faith”--friends such as Shepherd and Zachary Levi (“Chuck”) “who believe it is possible to be a Christian and make it in showbiz.”

His memorable appearance in the bestselling DVD, “Thou Shalt Laugh: The Deuce,” hosted Emmy Award-winning comedy legend Tim Conway (“The Carol Burnett Show” and “SpongeBob Square Pants”), led to a repeat performance in the follow up project, “Thou Shalt Laugh 5” hosted by Chonda Pierce and featuring Thor Ramsey (“Bananas”), Taylor Mason (Taylor’s Attic”), and Victoria Jackson (“Saturday Night Live”).

Known for his versatility, the former University of North Texas football player can lay them out in the aisle at church, as well as at the club. In fact, his career in entertainment began after a visit to a Dallas-area comedy club with college buddies that led to a chance encounter with comedian and Oscar-winning actor, Jamie Foxx. On a dare, Bone entered a contest for the best impression of Foxx’s iconic character, “Wanda the Ugly Woman.” He won!

The wheels of destiny were set in motion. Soon his pursuit of a degree in emergency administration and disaster planning was replaced with the pursuit of stage time. Bone began performing at local clubs such as The Steve Harvey Comedy House. It wasn’t long before he caught the attention of Harvey himself who became his stand-up comedy mentor. 

Bone took a leap of faith and moved to Los Angeles to pursue comedy full-time. Nothing could have prepared him for the culture shock that greeted him. Next to the hardcore acts he shared the stage with, his family-friendly routine seemed soft. But that fish-out-of-water experience inspired him to remain true to himself and to his God—no matter where he performed. He set out to carve out a niche all his own. (And carve he did!) In 2005, the Urban Gospel Alliance named him “Comedian of the Year.” His mission was simple—“I just like to have a good time. I just want to be the ringleader of the good time,” Bone says.

Ask anyone who’s ever seen Bone Hampton perform, they will tell you:  Mission accomplished.  Bone can be heard all day long on satellite radio, and caught on TV anytime your television is on.

(www.BoneHampton.com)



Anjelah Johnson

1/2/2018

 
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Anjelah Johnson-Reyes was born and raised in San Jose, California and is of Mexican and Native American descent. She is one of five children and has a large extended family to which she remains close.  In the beginning of her career, Johnson- Reyes was a professional cheerleader for the Oakland Raiders. As an Oakland Raiderette, she was named Rookie of the Year and even performed in Super Bowl XXXVII. After that year she decided to move to Los Angeles to pursue her dream of acting.

She became an internet sensation with her viral video, “Nail Salon” which led to many stand up, television and film opportunities. That same year she joined the cast of, “MADtv” as a series regular, which spawned another internet sensation, “Bon Qui Qui.” This original character, a disgruntled fast food employee with no filter, has been enjoyed, viewed and replicated by over 65 million people worldwide. After recording and releasing 3 songs and 2 music videos as Bon Qui Qui, Anjelah signed a record deal with Warner Bros. Records to release a full album titled, “Gold Plated Dreams”, which She’s toured twice selling out both times. Bon Qui Qui teamed up with Benefit Cosmetics for her third music video “This Is How We Do It”, and early in 2016 she released her newest video off the album, “Shut Us Down”. All the songs are available on iTunes and the videos are currently on YouTube.

Anjelah has appeared in multiple ads & commercials including campaigns for Sprint, Visa, Snickers, Verizon, All-State, K-Swiss, Dryers Ice Cream and was the spokesperson for a Texas based restaurant chain, Taco Cabana.  Anjelah has also guest starred on shows such as The Shield, Ugly Betty, Curb Your Enthausiasm, and others all while touring with her stand up comedy.
In June 2009 Anjelah recorded her first one-hour special for Comedy Central and Warner Bros. Records titled, That’s How We Do It. Her second one-hour special, The Homecoming Show, aired on NUVOtv in July of 2013 and is currently available on DVD and Netflix. In 2014 Anjelah recorded her third hour special, Not Fancy, a Netflix original, and is currently available for streaming.

Johnson has starred in such films as OUR FAMILY WEDDING, ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE SQUEAKQUEL, and ENOUGH SAID. The film MOM’S NIGHT OUT not only features Anjelah but also her husband, musician Manwell Reyes of the band Group 1 Crew.
Anjelah resides in Los Angeles with her husband and continues to act and tour the country with her sold out comedy shows.

Dwayne Kennedy

8/31/2017

 
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DWAYNE KENNEDY is a stand-up comedian, actor and writer whose TV writing credits include The Arsenio Hall Show (CBS), The Orlando Jones Show (FX), and the critically acclaimed FX/FXX original series, Totally Biased with W. Kamau Bell.

His debut stand-up comedy EP, “OH NO, IT’S DWAYNE KENNEDY!” is available now at Bandcamp, with a variable price point plan (Black Folks = $9, White Folks = It Depends).

Dwayne got his start in comedy in his native Chicago at Zanies Comedy Club, and has since evolved into one of the funniest and most thought-provoking comedians of our time.  His satirical diversions and piercing perspective on social and world issues showcase a comedic genius heralded by the likes of Chris Rock and Marc Maron.

Described as a “world-class stand-up” by The Village Voice, Dwayne continues to challenge the norm and connect with audiences through his keen, incisive wit. Winner of the 2002 US Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, Colorado, Dwayne’s stand-up has been featured on The Late Show with David Letterman, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Premium Blend, Comedy Central Presents, and Talkin' Dirty after Dark.  

Dwayne’s acting credits include roles on Seinfeld, Martin, Amen, 227 and in the feature film How High.  He’s also had the distinction of appearing as a correspondent on Totally Biased with W. Kamau Bell, where one of his popular segments was named the “The Most Intentionally Funny Video of the Day” at Nerdist.

Bruce Smith

8/31/2017

 
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​Omnipop Talent Group is a full service management company which continues to expand its talent base to include trained, experienced dramatic actors. They continue building upon its established reputation for representing strong comedic actors and stand-up comics crossing over into acting, hosting, writing and producing.

Some of the clients include Maria Bamford, Andy Kindler, Jonathan Katz, Doug Benson, and more!

Started in 1983 by Bruce Smith, Omnipop was solely a personal appearance agency for bands and comics with placement in clubs and colleges throughout the country. Smith was shortly joined by owners Tom Ingegno and Ralph Asquino who, by 1989, knew they wanted to work in television and had acquired talent ready to move on to the next level.

Tom Ingegno, who runs the New York office, is also president of the East Coast office's theatrical Division. Tom has a background in theater, has performed in bands and has written and produced three albums.

The Los Angeles office was opened in 1990 and is run by Bruce Smith, president of the West Coast Theatrical Division. He has a background in film, communications and has also performed in bands. Ralph Asquino joined Tom Ingegno in the East Coast office and has a musical performance background.

Kerri Pomarolli

8/31/2017

 
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​Kerri Pomarolli is an stand up comedian, actress, and author based in Los Angeles, California. Kerri has 29 appearances on The Tonight Show between 2000-2012. She has toured with everyone from Sherri Shepherd from The View to Candace Cameron Bure, to Jim Carrey, to Carol Channing. She has been the host and emcee for The CA Women's Conference with such stars a Marcia Cross, Tippy Hedren, and Fran Drescher. Kerri has published 4 books, including Guys Like Girls Named Jennie and Moms' Night Out. Kerri is a majorly sought after corporate motivational speaker with past clients such as Hershey, Ford Motor Company, Chrysler, and Cisco Systems. She can be seen on Nick at Nite, Moms Night Out, and her TV web series Momland with co-star Angela Hoover from Americas Got Talent. She is also starring in The Brennan Manning Story, directed by David Leo Schultz which is on Netflix now.

Jimmy McHugh

8/31/2017

 
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Jimmy McHugh has been dishing out his style of comedy for over 25 years. Born and raised on the Northwest side of Chicago, Jimmy blends a mixture of classic observational humor emphasized with his unique vocal and facial expressions. Taking his swings at the world of sports, Ernie Tucker of the Chicago Sun Times wrote, "Jim McHugh delivers some of the funniest sports material I have ever heard."

Jimmy appears at various national comedy clubs and has also been seen on Comedy Central, HBO, MTV, ESPN2 and the Oprah Winfrey Show.

All Past Winners

8/23/2017

 

2017 Pasadena: Joe Dungan

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Shown here from left to right back row: Finalist Anji Stubbs, Bruce Smith of Omnipop, Finalist Katsy Chappell, Finalist Josh Novey. Front Row left to right: Celebrity Performer Erica Rhodes, and Winner Joe Dungan.

2017 Chicago: Steve Smargon

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Shown with trophy, winner Steve Smargon. Next to him on the left is creator of the challenge Leslie Norris Townsend and to her left, finalist Sally Baucke. Between the winner and Leslie is finalist Shawn Reynolds, and next to the winner on the right is finalist Jeffrey Donaldson.

2016 Todd Justice

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2015 Mike Parramore

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2014 William Woody

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2013 Charlene Mae

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Winner: Charlene Mae 
Finalists: C.J. Harlow from Kentucky, John Floyd from North Carolina, Charlene Mae from Georgia and Andy Beningo from Michigan.

2012 Marty Simpson

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Winner: Marty Simpson - See Clean Comedian Marty Simpson's website.
Finalists: Charlene Mae, Jody Fuller (New-Comer of the Year), and Dan Brown
Celebrity Judges: Dennis Regan, Leslie Norris Townsend, Bobby Kelton, Suzanne Bartels, Joby Saad
Also shown in the back, 2011 Winner, Clayburn Cox.

2011 Clayburn Cox

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​Holding trophy, winner Clayburn Cox. On the left, C.J. Harlowe and on the right, Joe Bryan.

2010 Jonnie W.

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From left to right: Leslie Townsend, Michelle Krajecki, White Choclate, Jonnie W. (WINNER) Clayburn Cox (runner up), Joby Saad
See Jonnie W.'s website.

Semi-Finalists (not pictured here)
DD Ingrahn, Renard Hirsch, Marty Simpson, Scott Gregory
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