CBS today announced the 21 performers participating in the 2018 CBS DIVERSITY COMEDY SHOWCASE which will begin its run of six shows on Jan. 23 at the El Portal Theatre in Los Angeles.

Since its inception 13 years ago, THE CBS DIVERSITY COMEDY SHOWCASE has developed into a hybrid comedy show with Broadway-worthy live performances and original, creative writing. Recognized by many as the industry leader in actor showcases designed to highlight diverse talent, THE CBS DIVERSITY COMEDY SHOWCASE is attended by senior-level CBS Entertainment executives, showrunners and casting directors from series on CBS, as well as other networks and talent agents/managers from across the entertainment industry.

This year’s showcase saw over 800 auditions with sessions in Los Angeles, New York and Chicago. Hundreds of performers also auditioned via self-tape. Over the four-month rehearsal period, over 500 original sketches are written, with 20 making it to the stage.