For fans of stand up comedy, the Portland scene is a gift that keeps on giving. On pretty much any given night $7.00-$10.00 gets you in to witness the incubator for tomorrow’s talent. Ron Funches and Ian Karmel are playing with funny money in Los Angeles and we lost Shane Torres to New York but there is no shortage of talent to fill the void.  Sean Jordan, Anthony Lopez, Amy Miller, Nariko Ott, JoAnn Schinderle, Gabe Dinger… honestly, I could go on forever.

One of my favorites is Becky Braunstein. Hailing from Alaska, and choosing Portland for it's vibrant seen, Becky Braunstein has a unique and refreshing perspective on stand-up comedy. Becky lulls you into the narrative of her tales then stings you with acerbic wit. Side effects of the poison: uncontrollable laughter. After meeting Becky, I came away with a feeling of… This person is fun as fuck. I wish she were my friend. Have you ever find yourself at some sullen social obligation where the topics of conversations range from awkward implementation of overused rhetoric and the bombastic bloviation of some over-enthused, over-indulged, flap-mouthed egomaniac? In that moment, you just wish you could find one person, even if only to use as a life preserver in this social ship wreck. Someone who could destroy the room with subtle subterfuge without making a scene. Becky is this person.

Being a stand-up fan in Portland is fun. You get to take ownership in the investment you make in the comics you love. I love Becky Braunstein. I put all my chips down for her.

You can see Becky in the semifinals of Portland's Funniest Person Contest at Helium Comedy Club on July 1st at 7pm. Check out her website:  http://www.beckybraunstein.com/   

Although of course, you end up becoming yourself.

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