The Funniest Semi-Finalists in Austin: FPIA Round One Recaps (Part 2)
Amber Bixby
Was this your first year competing in FPIA?
Last year was my first year in the contest. This year, I felt a little more prepared because I had an idea of what I was getting myself into. Last year I was doe-eyed and it felt like a whirlwind. The contest is so much fun.
What was your preliminary round like?
It was a tough night. There were lots of great comedians. All around, it was a great show. I was excited to be a part of it -- and very nervous. There were new faces who did well and seasoned comics who killed.
Any predictions for the Finals?
It will be interesting. The comics here are very supportive of each other; it's a great community to be a part of. It'll be fun. The scene is in a very interesting transition right now, it's difficult to try and make any predictions.
What do you imagine holding the title of FPIA is like?
There's the money -- which all comics blow. And there's usually a free gym membership, but what kind of comic works out? I imagine holding the FPIA title changes everything. Everyone loves you and gives you puppies. Boys return your calls. Girls want to be your shopping buddy. I imagine it's hard to have to live up to that title every time you go on stage for the entire year. The current and previous FPIAs have been really helpful and supportive to the newer comics. They've done a lot for the scene; hopefully the 2011 FPIA will continue the trend.
Amber performs in the semifinals Sunday, May 8 at 8 pm.
Ryan Cownie
Was this your first year competing in FPIA?
Technically no. I signed up for it last year thinking it was an open-floor friendship forum where you can meet and greet other lonely people, but this year I'm a little bit more aware. Everyone competing is still very lonely though.
What was your preliminary round like?
I was actually the only "shoe-in" this year, seeing as I slept/did drugs with all but one judge, so I didn’t have to do a preliminary and am going straight to the semis. I bet it would have been good, though.
Any predictions for the Finals?
I'm not sure in what order, but I imagine there will be approximately 9 people ranked above me, since only one of the judges will be the same.
What do you imagine holding the title of FPIA is like?
I imagine holding the tittle makes you feel a lot like King Kong. In the jungle you're king and can rip heads off dinosaurs, but when you leave the jungle you get chained and thrown on stage like any other 10-story tall gorilla. There is a tiny hazing ritual where the current FPIA holder, Lucas Molandes, announces the winner, but before you can accept the cap and cape you must kiss your index finger and trace it around your heart slowly while making eye contact, then lightly, with the same index finger, trace the lips of the previous champion. This is also one of the benefits.
Ryan performs in the semifinals Monday, May 9 at 8 pm.
Brian Gaar
Was this your first year competing in FPIA?
This is actually my third year. In previous contests, I’ve advanced past the prelims, only embarrass myself in the semis. But this year, I’ve endured a brutal training regimen of Starcraft 2, soda and Starcraft 2. What I’m trying to say is, this year will be different!
What was your preliminary round like?
Awesome.
Any predictions for the Finals?
My prediction? Pain. (Comics are really sensitive.)
What do you imagine holding the title of FPIA is like?
Since it’s a cape and crown, I’m guessing “slightly ridiculous.” But you also get $2,500, so the audience probably chalks it up to rich-person eccentricity. Luckily, I won’t ever have to know what that feels like.
Brian performs in the semifinals Tuesday, May 10 at 8 pm.
