Tricks, jokes and shenanigans galore

Prop comic The Zaniac performs at the Panida

By Reader Staff

Hailing from Seattle — where he was voted best prop comic — magician, comedian and all-around entertainer The Zaniac is a man of many strange and unique talents, which he will bring to the Panida Stage on Friday, April 17. The Pend Oreille Arts Council sponsors the 7 p.m. performance, which will take place on the theater’s main stage at 300 N. First Ave.

The Zaniac — a.k.a. Alex Zerbe — combines jokes, stunts and zany props for his high-energy family shows. Often described as a “human cartoon” and an “untamed rubber band,” Zerbe jumps between juggling bowling balls, beatboxing, physical comedy and tricks like splitting a vegetable with a thrown playing card. His quirky, lighthearted antics have landed him appearances on America’s Got Talent and Last Comic Standing and earned him two Guinness World Records (for hacky sack-ing).

“We invite the young, and the young at heart, to enjoy this fun-tastic show,” said Pend Oreille Arts Council Executive Director Tone Stolz. “We promise you will leave sore from laughing and with a huge smile on your face.”

The Zaniac’s visit to Sandpoint will also include educational outreach as part of POAC’s Ovations program. Partnering with the Lake Pend Oreille School District, Ovations provides educational, artistic experiences for students in the community who would not otherwise have access to the arts.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for youth, available at the POAC Gallery at 313 N. Second Ave., in Sandpoint, and at the Panida’s box office. Secure them in advance at ArtinSandpoint.org and catch a glimpse of Zerbe’s shows at alexzerbe.com.