The San Francisco Comedy Competition is one of the most prestigious comedy events in North America—launching the careers of people like Ellen DeGeneres and Patton Oswalt. It’s an outrageously funny evening where you will see the comedy stars of tomorrow competing for their chance at fame and fortune.

Hundreds of comedians audition each year to compete in the San Francisco International Stand Up Comedy Competition. Only 30 are chosen. In its first year, Robin Williams came in 2nd.

Many talented comedians have since emerged from this annual event to become major stars. It could be argued that The Comedy Competition helps turn them into diamonds as it is a true contest that develops its contestants by forcing them to adjust to a variety of audiences—in comedy clubs, colleges, casinos and theaters—while enduring the strain of an extended road trip.