The Seahawk

Issue date: 11/1/07 Section: Lifestyles

Left: Sophomore Jack Guimon was one of the 10 amateur comedians allowed five-seven minutes to perform an original routine for a chance to win cash and glory.

Living up to its reputation of offering a variety of unique activities on campus, UNCW continued its comedic tradition of putting a spin on the popular television show, The Last Comic Standing, on Monday Oct. 29.

"Ten amateur comedians that attend UNCW are allowed five-seven minutes to perform their original routines in front of a panel of judges and audience members," ACE Comedy Chairman Jonathan DeRosa said.

First place winner, senior John Felts, received $100 and an opening slot for Comedian Finesse Mitchell Nov. 7. Second place winner, senior Jordan Lamotta, got $50 and an opening slot for Comedian Nick Thune Feb. 7.

"I actually draw my material from conversations," Felts said. "I carry a notebook and write jokes down as they come to me."

Felts, who has also performed at the Juggling Gypsy Hookah Bar, said he felt the best way to start his career in comedy was right here at UNCW.

While ACE has been putting on The Last Seahawk Standing for years, student participation has never been a question.

"It tends to be one of our more popular events," DeRosa said. "We had this event in the same place last year and had people standing in the back and at the doors to watch. My committee counted about 300 people in attendance."

Although auditions aren't required, rules and regulations are established for the show.

"The contestants are warned that if they begin making jokes that are blatantly racist, sexist or anything else of that unnecessary nature, their microphones will be cut, they will be asked to leave, and they will lose their chance at winning," DeRosa said.

This year, the show offered the participants a full house in Cameron Hall as the comedians entertained the audience with joke topics ranging from the local Sonic to Facebook to baby names. Drawing in the crowd with engaging and energizing performances, the comics left everyone laughing profusely and wanting more.

The judges included Student Body President Dan Thorpe, former ACE Concerts Chairman Austin Hains, DJ and former ACE Comedy Chairman Adam Webb, ACE member June Bunce, and ACE Spirit Co-Chair Emily Bartsch. The contestants were judged on originality, delivery and audience interaction and reaction.

The Last Seahawk Standing was co-sponsored by ACE Comedy and ACE Fall Fest.

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