With the Geek Bowl out of the way and my indifference to SXSW, the new countdown is the Moontower Comedyfest, a recent addition to Austin’s rather crowded schedule: SXSW, ACL Fest (now two weekends), Fun Fun Fest, Wizard World Austin, Staple, Fantastic Fest, Dwarf Con and Lone Star Roundup (hot rods). The list I gave is just the tip of a rather large iceberg.
I attended the inaugural MCF but wisely chose the a la carte route because a badge was rather pricey. Then rumors abounded about badge-holders being denied access to some shows plus it didn’t include the headliners at the Paramount Theater. Sounds like the ripoff SXSW has become. Since MCF is one of many numerous comedy gatherings, at least I don’t feel unwelcome; SXSW and ACL are for Californicators looking to move here, find a new place to ruin.
So on the opening night I saw the wonderful Maria Bamford with Jackie Kashian (a Milwaukean!) at the CapCity. Thursday was Marc Maron (I posted that) at the Mohawk. Friday was Dana Gould and Friends at the Scottish Rite Temple. I passed on the final day to take in the Adventure Time banquet, again, old post. The Dana Gould performance was a nice change from the previous two. Dana was the MC for brief sets with Maria Bamford, Andy Kindler, Chelsea Peretti, Tom Rhodes and John Ramsey. After the show I got to talk to Andy, Dana and Tom briefly. I told Andy I loved his Home Movies and Bob’s Burgers characters, he smiled, said thanks. Dana I caught up with regarding this Star Trek special he did (I’m still late on delivering it as a DVD). Tom gave me his latest CD which I highly recommend, I owe him a review since it was request.
Tom Rhodes and Andy Kindler are both returning so I’m going to make a strong effort to see them, especially Tom. No sign of Dana but Marc Maron and Maria Bamford are listed, no venues yet.