The last of 17 contestants of the KatHouse Lounge’s “Last Comic Standing” four-week challenge was all smiles when judges said his name into the microphone Wednesday night. A crowd of more than 300 toasted him with cheers, applause and cocktails.
Paul Nyakatura, junior in information sciences, looked smaller standing behind his oversized check than he did performing on stage. A strong contestant throughout the challenge, Nyakatura spoke with ease about situations a majority of the white audience might never have thought about, let alone coming from a stage performer.
As an example, he mentioned how incredulous he felt whenever white men would refer to him as a “nigger” while drinking heavily.
In a moment of irony, he referred to his time on stage as fun, but taxing.
“Ten minutes on stage is like a job. And I don’t even get paid. I show up late, don’t know who my bosses are and procrastinate,” Nyakatura admitted to the audience before winning the prize money.
The two runner-ups were Luke Hansen, junior in marketing, and Manhattan resident Cody Diedrich, who preceded Nyakatura and still delivered memorable lines.
Hansen mentioned Wal-Mart twice in his bit and eliminating pesky squirrels with firearms, but he also made valid points about the absurdity of losing a “normal” parking spot to a disabled person, and the guilt one feels when stepping out of a public, handicap-accessible bathroom stall, to be greeted by a disabled person.
Diedrich reminded the crowd that “Christmas is coming up on us like death on John McCain,” but did offer more than one-liners.
“They call alcoholism a disease, but it’s the most fun disease out there. Seriously, who brings a flask of malaria to a football game?”
In the judges’ opinion, Nyakatura reached all expectations of a comedian.
“The best comic is one who is comfortable on stage and has something new and funny to say,” said Jason Roberts, editor of GO! 24/7.
Another judge, Chris Swick, senior in journalism and mass communications, said each Wednesday night, the crowds grew larger.
Nyakatura winnings included a weekly Thursday-night contract to introduce the entertainment featured at the KatHouse.
Last comic standing wins $1,000, comedy contract
Published: Thursday, November 20, 2008
Updated: Thursday, November 20, 2008
You have no idea how proud of you I am. This accomplishment is by no means of insignificant proportions. It has truly made my entire year! This is the best gift that you have ever given me. Way to go son! CONGRATULATIONS! Your loving Dad,
Andrew