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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, January 6, 2011
Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz
City’s own ‘late show’ prospers Host plays it for laughs at The Empty Space
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udging by my un-busy e-mail inbox, it looks like Bakersfield is more interested in hibernating for the winter. Could it be the post-holidays blues, or is everyone camped out at home in preparation for a big spring breakout? Just a few days into the new year, the only thing I’ve heard uttered among the natives is, “Social D. tickets onsale?” Yes they are, but I’m not ready to talk about that show just yet. Time to step into the first Lowdown of 2011…
Late-night comedy snack Comedian Michael Armendariz invite you to stay warm as in-studio guests of his late-night talk show, “The Nighttime Show,” happening this Friday at The Empty Space Theater. Now in its second season, Armendariz says growing up watching the antics of some of his TV heroes helped inspire his own late-night gabfest. “I grew up watching Letterman and Conan, and just thought it would be a great idea to somehow bring that format to Bakersfield and give local artists a new showcase in town.” Armendariz and co-host Jason Monroe are no strangers to the stage. Monroe, whose been seen performing in numerous local productions, also works as executive director at The Empty Space. Armendariz has been active since attending Garces High School in the mid’90s. Then in ’98,
STEFANI DIAS / THE CALIFORNIAN
“The Nighttime Show” returns to The Empty Space this weekend. Pictured from left is co-host Jason Monroe, guest actor/comedian Adam McCabe and host Michael Armendariz.
he co-founded Bakersfield comedy troupe The Blacklist. “We were one of the early local groups to experiment with what would be classified as ‘alternative comedy,’ coming from other troupes like Kids In The Hall, The State and Upright Citizens Brigade,” he said. Debuting last August, the show was originally held the first Saturday night of every month. Now through July, they’ll be “broadcasting” the first night of every new play making its premiere, incorporating interviews with members of that particular evening’s cast, among other offbeat visitors. No TV required to enjoy — just make sure you keep a close eye on their programming schedule.
“This is a real ‘by the seat of your pants’ production,” Armendariz said. “Picture the best and quirkiest things you see on Conan. Our comedy is somewhat blue, but for the most part familyfriendly. Jason and I are both kind of ‘off.’ His background in improv and my background in sketch comedy allows us feed off each other in different ways.” There will also be musical guests like Bakersfield singer/ songwriter Vanessa Andrea, stopping by to perform this weekend. Previously mentioned in The Lowdown, she’s just one of many local musicians and comedians making appearances this season. “The state of late night TV is really disparate as opposed to
Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.
some years ago. There are way too many shows going on against each other. But, here I am adding to the mix,” Armendariz laughed. “Hopefully we’re adding something fresh enough and adding a local spin and adding to the local art scene.” If you think you’re “Nighttime Show” material, prospective guests and performers are asked to pitch themselves via e-mail at blacklisttheworld@mac.com. Friday night’s show begins at 11 p.m. after the 8 p.m. Empty Space production of “Touch.” Admission is $5. The Empty Space is located at 706 Oak St. Call 327-PLAY for more info.
Send me your suggestions January is just the beginning to what I anticipate to be a really happening year beginning with the usual round of Bakersfield festivals and more. I’m always on the
Bakotopia Unplugged Open Mic Night With hosts Matt Munoz and Pablo Alaniz When: 8 to 11 p.m. Wednesdays. Signups start at 7:30 p.m. Where: Fishlips, 1517 18th St. Information: 324-2557 or visit the Facebook page for updates.
hunt for cool news leads, so make sure you continue sending me some hot tips at mmunoz@bakersfield.com. We’ll be introducing some new features in the coming weeks and months, so stay tuned to The Lowdown. Let’s make a point to think big and support your scene. How’s that for a New Year’s resolution? See you at the next show.