Helium's Philly's Phunniest Contest Accepting Comics Starting Today

It's about that time of the year again for the biggest comedy competition in Philadelphia where Helium Comedy Club finds "Philly's Phunniest Person." Over the two weeks of intense competition, 150 comics will take the stage for the grand prize of $1,000. Last year, C vs. A was there almost every night with recaps and an interview with the eventual winner Kent Haines.

There's no better way to explain how it all goes down than the official rules and regulations:

Contestants must be from Philadelphia or the surrounding area.

You must perform 4:30 - 6 minutes during the preliminary rounds.

Material must be original. If it is not, you will be disqualified.

Registration will conclude July 1, 2009 or when we have reached 150 contestants.

The preliminary rounds will take place July 28 - July 30, Aug 1 and Aug 4 - Aug 6, with Aug 7 being the semi-finals and Aug 8 the finals (dates subjects to change).

Due to the number of no-shows last year, we have been forced to increase the registration fee and take payment at registration. Registration fee is $20 per person. This registration fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. The night of your preliminary round, you will receive a $15 Helium Comedy Club gift certificate at the conclusion of your performance.

Comics for each show will be picked at random and judges along with audience votes will decide who advances.

Comics can register at Helium's website (doesn't seem to work in Firefox, but we had success with Internet Explorer) or in person starting at 6PM tomorrow.

This year's competition promises to be as intense as as ever as many local comedians have gained considerable experience over the past 12 months. It may get bloody. Who do YOU think is going to win?