CAITLIN PRARAT | SUMMER KENT STATER Comedian Fred Sauler performs his act on amateur night at the Funny Stop Comedy Club.

Credit: DKS Editors

Students can watch and perform comedy acts at the same local venue where comedians such as Steve Harvey and Tim Allen began their careers.

Funny Stop Comedy Club in Cuyahoga Falls hosts college night Tuesdays at 8:30. Admission is free with a college ID.

“A lot of local people come out for stage time,” said Stan Piatt, who hosts the amateur comedian contests.

Piatt said anyone can compete, and contestants are allowed five minutes on stage. The top two advance to the finals; the others can reschedule another chance.

Jamal Husseini, senior exercise physiology major and one of the amateur contestants last week, has performed at the Funny Stop eight times.

“I like getting up and talking to people,” he said.

Piatt said comedians work to become headliners, who get an hour to perform.

“Most of our headliners got their start right here,” said Pete Barakat, who co-owns the club, which was formerly known as Hilarities.

The name changed to Funny Stop after a fire destroyed the old club.

The Funny Stop is not limited to stand-up; it offers karaoke and open mic nights before and after shows.

Piatt said the club has big crowds for all shows and call-ahead reservations are recommended.

Husseini said big crowds are always nice.

“At least someone will laugh,” he said.

Contact entertainment reporter Brindi Bays at [email protected].