Cash Prizes for Top Comics in New Program

With Open Mic Night, Q Live!, part of Q Cinema, Fort Worth, Texas' Gay & Lesbian International Film Festival, patrons will get a taste of some laughs and liquor.

"With a new year and a lot of events and exciting goings-on to plan for, Q Cinema is looking forward to stretching its wings with some exciting new endeavors including the debut of our new theater arm Q Live!, a full season of plays, more monthly screenings, and the kick-off of our new bi-monthly evening of stand-up comedy with Open Mic Night at Percussions," said Todd Camp, artistic director of Q Cinema. "Q Live! is excited to offer a new space for aspiring comics to do their thing with a bi-monthly Open Mic Night at 9-11 p.m. at Percussions Lounge, 426 S. Jennings Avenue."

Camp said Q Live!, which begins its full theatrical season in March with the Southwest premiere of Christopher Shinn's Dying City, goes for laughs with host Kyle Trentham, Q Live!'s artistic director.

"We're trying something new and a little different and we're psyched to be the only open mic venue in Tarrant County," said Trentham in a press release.

Every two weeks (which started Feb. 1), Q Live! will open the mic to professional, amateur, and wannabe comedians to test new material and to develop their acts, according to press materials.

"Admission is free but seating is limited, so arrive early if you don't want to stand up to watch stand-up," states the release.

For more information, visit qcinema.com.

The mission of Q Cinema is to provide a voice for gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgendered persons by presenting films, videos, and live programs that not only represent the diversity of the community but entertain, educate, and enlighten all.

In unrelated news, comedian Paula Poundstone performs Feb. 25 at The Majestic Theatre, 1925 Elm Street in Dallas at 8 p.m.

Tickets may be purchased through Paypal as well as through Ticketmaster besides all the usual venues.

In other fundraising news, you can sign up to volunteer or attend the annual AGLIFF (Austin Gay and Lesbian International Film Festival) Feb. 27, celebration of the Oscars, celebrating all things Hollywood. The Texas agency is commemorating 24 years of film and arts this year.

To sign up, email michelle.faires@agliff.org.

AGLIFF is also asking for volunteers for their Bloom project to paint the town pink, to create the largest, multi-media arts festival for the LGBT community in Austin; for the film festival; and will be introducing special screening events along with guest lecturers and workshop opportunities.

For more information about these opportunities, email the above referenced contact.