‘Saturday Night Live’ comedians to come to campus

Two of “Saturday Night Live’s” biggest comedians, Kate McKinnon and Vanessa Bayer will perform tonight at the Bryce Jordan Center with a special guest appearance by comedian and writer, Streeter Seidell.

Bernie Punt, director of sales and marketing at the BJC, said the chance to host Bayer and McKinnon was a “serendipitous opportunity.”

The comedy duo has the same agent as Kevin Hart, Punt said and after Hart’s successful appearance here last month, his agent offered Penn State the opportunity to have Bayer and McKinnon perform.

“This is a rare opportunity to find two comedians available the same night,” Punt said. “This is normally a show you’d see in a New York comedy club.”

With the help of the University Park Allocation Committee, tickets are only $10 for students, Punt said.

“This event will be something you don’t normally see since both actresses are known for their impression,” Punt said. “However, Monday night will consist of stand-up routines.”

Bayer is known for her portrayal of Jacob the Bar Mitzvah Boy on “Weekend Update,” a satirical news program that is a part of “SNL,” according to NBC’s website. Bayer has also gained popularity over the years for her impressions of celebrities like Miley Cyrus, Lady Gaga, Molly Ringwald, Kourtney Kardashian and Diane Keaton.

Kate McKinnon is also known for her celebrity impressions. In past seasons McKinnon has impersonated Ellen DeGeneres, Jodie Foster, Martha Stewart, Hillary Clinton, Iggy Azalea and Lorde, according to the NBC website.

“Kate McKinnon and Vanessa Bayer are definitely two comediennes I really respect.” David Zaremsky (freshmen-computer science) said. “Second Floor Stand-up is a big supporter of ‘Saturday Night Live’ stars and especially a big fan of funny women.”

Last year McKinnon was recognized for her work on “SNL” when she won the American Comedy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She has also been nominated for three EMMY Awards.

Emily Kindya, president of Full Ammo Improv Troupe, also said she was excited for the event.

“They’re both really inspirational for anyone pursuing comedy.” Kindya (senior-telecommunications) said.

The special guest, Streeter Seidell, is an up-and-coming comedian, writer and television host. Seidell is the opening act, Punt said. He has produced online skits for CollegeHumor as well as MTV’s “Pranked” and now works for “SNL” as a writer.

Screen Shot 2016-02-25 at 1.03.18 PM
Advertisement for SNL stars Vanessa Bayer and Kate McKinnon performance at the Bryce Jordan Center, courtesy of Bernie Punt.

To read the article which was originally published on The Daily Collegian, click here.

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