America’s most compelling comedy competition will premiere in Ames at Stephens Auditorium to kick off the 2015-2016 Performing Arts Series on 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30.

The top five finalists will be battling for the incredible prize package worth $250,000, and a development deal for their own television show.

The finalists include:

Michael Palascak – Midwest native currently living Chicago where he began his career; studies everything from standup to sketch and improv.

Ian Bagg – the Canadian-born comic has been working in the industry for many years and has made several TV and movie appearances while trying to break his unique style into the mainstream.

Dominique – Washington D.C. native who moved to New York City where, according to her website, she impressed “30 Rock” and “Saturday Night Live” star Tracy Morgan, who made her his opening act for a while. She prides herself on making her style both raw and uncut.

Andy Erikson – Has taken home the big win at events like the House of Comedy’s 2010 Funniest Person Contest, was named Duluth’s Funniest Person in 2009 and won the 2009 Aspen Rooftop College Comedy Festival.

Clayton English – The Atlanta native has been working on his standup act for 10 years and is best known for his role as Terrence in the movie “Preacher’s Kid” or his guest spot on “Tyler Perry’s House of Payne.”

“Last Comic Standing” returned this summer with new judge Norm Macdonald alongside current judges and comedy icons Roseanne Barr and Keenen Ivory Wayans. Comedy Central roast veteran Anthony Jeselnik has also joined as a host for this season.

Tickets for ISU students and single tickets range from $25-$59. Tickets are available for purchase via Ticketmaster and can also be purchased from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Stephens Auditorium ticket office.

Watch the Semifinals – Part 2 that aired on August 26 here along with full episodes from earlier in the Last Comic Standing season or watch the season finale on Wednesday, September 9 at 10/9c on NBC.

For more information on Last Comic Standing, visit the Iowa State Center’s Web Page for the show and the show’s tour website.