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Celebrating four successful years as one of Toronto's most innovative and entertaining comedic showcases, The Most RACES Show on Earth! returns to the Panasonic Theatre on Friday, March 14 and Saturday, March 15.

The annual comedy show examines racial differences through the lens of laughter and features artists from various ethnic and geographical backgrounds.

"The Most RACES Show on Earth! attests to the fact that ethnic stereotypes can be funny, at least when presented in the right light," said Neil Bansil, founder of What's Really Good? Productions and the creator/producer behind the show.

The Most RACES Show on Earth! has sold out each year by showcasing multicultural comedians who are on the cusp of stardom or who have already achieved mainstream success.

"Comedy is one of the few art forms that allow raw expression; at times it is edgy, honest and ethnically influenced," Bansil said.

"Our past audiences have truly connected to the comedians beyond the racial divisions society puts us in. It's no secret that on the surface we have our idiosyncrasies; ironically the more you realize our differences, the more we are the same because we all laugh at the same things."

The 2008 performance will feature an all-star lineup of international talent, which has been specifically selected by Bansil. Artists featured in this year's show include Quinn Martin (Jamaican-Canadian), John Moses (Scottish-Canadian), Rebecca Kohler (Canadian), Dave Merheje, (Lebanese-Canadian), John Ki (Korean-Canadian), Cory Fernandez (Puerto Rican), Clayton English (African-American) and Daniel Tirado (Peruvian-Polish-Canadian).

The evening will be hosted by last year's standout sensation Drew Thomas and feature the music of live band Avenue Road.

"I think we have a great multicultural society," said Ryan Jones, a representative with What's Really Good? Productions.

"We as Torontonians relate really well with each other. I think comedy is a great way to connect people and an outlet for discussion and examination of our various backgrounds. At this show you can expect funny, edgy comedy - no matter what your background."

This year, What's Really Good? Productions has added an Ottawa performance to its roster of Ontario shows.

"Over the years, this show has changed a bit," Jones said. "We've added new performers and grown in terms of scope. Also, increasing the number of shows and adding the Ottawa date is great for us. But one thing that hasn't changed is the tremendous comedic talent that our audience enjoys at every show. This year will be our best one yet."

Bansil said he has always hoped the showcase would act as more than just an evening of entertainment.

"What we want people to bear in mind is that a lot of the barriers between cultures cannot be easily dissolved and sometimes it's actually the shock value of a lot of the jokes that inspires people to start thinking."

This year's edition of The Most RACES Show on Earth! takes place on Friday, March 14 at 9 p.m. and Saturday, March 15 at 7 and 9:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $20 to $25. A portion of the proceeds from each ticket sold will go to the Canadian Anti-Racism Education and Research Society. Visit www.themostracesshowonearth.com for details.

 

Jon Sarpong is the diversity officer at Durham College and UOIT. He provides independent diversity training and consultation for various organizations. Contact Jon by e-mailing jsarpong@hotmail.com.