Russell Peters Up and Coming Indian Comedian at SBU

by Nusrat Alam

On Thursday March 17, the students of Stony Brook University were honored with the presence of one of the most rapidly rising comedians. Of Indian descent, Russell Peters agreed to do a free show at Stony Brook in order to raise money for the Bengal Earthquake and the Tsunami Relief Effort of 2004. All proceeds were to be donated towards the non-profit organization, Save the Children. The Tsunami resulted in a loss of life exceeding 150,000. Save the Children is determined to fulfill the immediate needs of orphaned and hurt children and the longer term physical and emotional needs.

As the opening act, Dan Nainan, who has performed at comedy clubs, concerts and other special events, also donated his skills towards the effort of raising money for this cause. He has previously made an appearance on NBC's 'Last Comic Standing'. Other skills include voice-over work, including character and announcer voices on radio stations all over the country. Although not as popular as Russell Peters, he is representing Asians in America. Dan Nainan is half Japanese and Indian, a trait he often plays into during his comedy routines.

All in all the main focus of the night was on Russell Peters. The sold out comedy show (in just one day!) was definitely worth the money, besides the mighty cause. His routines, mainly based on being Indian in America (or other countries), had the audience in tears. Along with his own previously practiced routines he also chose to pick on some of the audience. Although not set up, this one girl who kept yapping like Flipper definitely became the butt of many of his jokes.

To end off the night we were surprised with a performance from Deja vu, one of the leading Stony Brook dance troupes. Afterwards many headed to the after party hosted by Sigma Beta Rho, where both comedians made an appearance. Unfortunately being of Asian ethnicities, that is where their major fan bases rise from. It would be good if non-Asians saw more of him too. If you haven't already seen his work please check out http://letsget.bz/fun/Russell%20Peters.wmv and pass the word!

March 17, 2005