is an engaging night of laughs, created by NOVA 535 owner Michael Novilla, that combines comedy, singing, dancing and any other talents (or schticks) you can think of. It’s an American Idol/Gong Show-style competition, where a panel of judges vote on the fate of local wannabe-popsters — and many of the performers are professionals, including the show’s host, Daniel “Motown Pride” Jefferson. Kick back, dine and select tasty beverages from Nova’s full bar — but don’t booze too much, because the audience picks the winner at the end of the show, while the three-judge panel picks second and third place. First prize is $100 and a chance to compete for the $1,000 grand prize — not too shabby. Perhaps I should work on perfecting burping the alphabet backwards while jumping rope. 8 p.m. Thurs., April 1, NOVA 535, 535 Ninth St. N., St. Petersburg, $10 in advance, $15 at the door, nova535.com. —Lily Reisman
This article appears in Mar 24-30, 2010.