As the American Black Film Festival kicks off tomorrow, June 11th in New York City, there are 4 talented comedians scurrying to tighten their sets and work out the kinks as they prepare to compete to be winner of ABFF’s 3rd Annual Comedy Wings Competition, sponsored by HBO.
These comedians were selected at the semi-finals in May by a panel of accomplished artists in the industry along with ABFF founder Jeff Friday. The comedians have now moved on to compete in the finals by way of an all-expense paid trip to New York City and will have the opportunity to meet with HBO talent executives at ABFF.
The 3rd Annual Comedy Wings finalists will be traveling from all across the United State to compete for the crown. “Each comic exemplified talent and unique style,†says ABFF Founder, Jeff Friday. “We are excited for the 3rd Annual Comedy Wings Competition Finals and to see these four comedians take to the stage on June 12th.†For a closer look at the competing comedians, see below:
Kareem Green
Kareem is a multi-faceted entertainer and comedian with a relatable comedic style. His talents include stand-up, improv, acting and writing. Kareem is a three-time champion on Showtime at the Apollo and has also appeared on BET’s Comic View, TV One’s Bill Bellamy’s “Who’s Got Jokes,†Comedy Central’s “Russell Simmons presents the Ruckus†and Gotham Live.
Chastity Washington
Chastity is a former teacher and coach turned comedian and actress. Her stand-up career highlights include HBO Def Jam, 50 Hot Women in Stand Up, AfterEllen.com, BET Comic View, Montreal Just for Laughs Festival, and History Channel. Chastity is also a NBC Diversity Finalist.
Dino Virgo
Dino Virgo is a skilled writer and performer with a minimalists approach to the mic. Dino’s mixed race has influenced his comedic palate and has lends to his uncompromising wit. Dino is eager to take the world of comedy by storm stating “I just want to be one of the ones to preserve comedy in its truest form — to have people say he did it the way it was to be done!â€
Mike Merrill
Mike has performed at multiple clubs throughout the US and 15 international locations around the world. He was voted best of the fest at the 2014 SLO Fest, and has also performed in the World Series of Comedy and Stand Up for Diversity. Mike wrote and performed a comedy sketch on the Just for Laughs site portal. When he’s not performing, some of his activities include resting, speaking Spanish poorly and volunteering as an assistant life coach.
You may watch these 4 talents compete to win Friday, July 12th, 8:30-10pm at the NY Hilton: Grand Ballroom East in New York City.
For more information on the competitions, films, schedules, and activities for the 2015 American Black Film Festival, visit http://www.abff.com. For updates via Twitter and other social media sites, check the hashtag #ABFF2015.