Future stars of Comedy Central – Steve Rannazzisi

The Black List NYC, an audience and production company, is bringing its expertise to New Orleans this week as Comedy Central prepares to film three one-hour stand-up specials at the New Orleans Civic Theater. Comedians Steve Rannazzisi of FX’s “The League,” Neal Brennan, the co-creator of “The Chapelle Show” and Chris D’Elia of NBC’s “Whitney” are all filming their first hour-long specials this weekend. Thanks to The company, which has been “casting” live studio audiences since 1999, tickets are free.

The Black List NYC says it aims to provide an authentic, enthusiastic experience for its fans. The performers and patrons have a mutually beneficial relationship: the comedians receive the opportunity to perform for a large, passionate audience, and penny-pinching college students enjoy live comedy without breaking the bank.

Each comedian performs two shows, one at 7 p.m. and another at 9:30 p.m., the smoother of which will air on Comedy Central this fall. Steve Rannazzisi takes the stage tonight, returning to New Orleans after performing Jan. 31 at Tulane with the cast of “The League” and attending the Super Bowl. The League’s small taste of his stand-up was well-executed, and more humor remains in store tonight. On Friday, Neal Brennan will receive a long overdue hour-long special. Brennan entered the comedy scene with “The Chapelle Show,” and has only further cemented his status as a prominent comedian by gaining a large Twitter following. On Saturday, Chris D’Elia, arguably one of the only tolerable parts of the straggling “Whitney,” will film his special. Recently named one of the “top 10 comics to watch” by Variety Magazine. D’Elia is known for his guest spot as Topher on “Workaholics.”

These Comedy Central special tapings provide an exciting opportunity to enjoy world-class live comedy for free. Tickets for all shows are available on a first-come, first-serve basis athttp://www.theblacklistnyc.com/ccnola.htm.