So, the other day ...

Word said the depth of talent in the competition runs from old-timers who have been in the comedy game for 10 years or more to veterans of fewer than a couple months on stage.

“Every once in a while a comedian is new and good off the bat,” Word said.

Since the contest has a panel of judges, it gives those new comics a chance against old crowd favorites who might win by default if the decision is left to the audience.

Keith said he thinks the contest has a great system because, like a vote for a high school student council, the comic with the most friends in the audience usually wins when winners are decided by the crowd.

Word said he considers the show to be fairly clean in comparison with other venues, but then again he spends a good deal of his time hanging around stand-up comics. Taking that into consideration, heed Word’s warning:

“If you’re easily offended, you shouldn’t come to comedy shows.”

For those who have the comedic stomach and enjoy a good swear or seven, reservations are suggested for the opening rounds of the contest and according to Word, absolutely a must for semifinal and final rounds when the competition really heats up.

“The crowds are just crazy,” Word said.

The preliminary rounds are every Friday and Saturday night through Sept. 22. The quarter finals are Fridays and Saturdays from Sept. 28 through Oct. 6 and semifinals are Oct. 12 and 13. The winner will be crowned at the finals on Oct. 20.

For a list of comic lineups and show dates or for more information, visit www.ocfunniest.com. To make reservations, call Martini Blues at (714) 840-2129.