Erik Terrell

Every year, the National Dog Show Presented by Purina hosts a special Gala as a fundraiser for various charities including Ronald McDonald House, Philadoptables, Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society, and Canine Partners for Life. Attended by over 250 people, the semi-formal event is co-hosted by Hall of Fame sports broadcaster Mary Carillo and features luminaries like John O'Hurley and NBC Philadelphia anchor Keith Jones, along with NBC executives and dog lovers. The stakes are high for the right comedian to entertain the crowd of entertainment pros and dog enthusiasts. Erik was selected for the job after making the team laugh out loud during a previous comedy club gig in Philadelphia. The hiring team recognized that the comedian had to be aware of his audience and avoid wisecracks about dogs being dumb. Erik intuitively understood that self-deprecating humor and tasteful jokes about dogs and their owners were ideal for the night. Erik's professionalism and ability to personalize his performance were exceptional, leaving the key executives at his table entertained throughout the evening and wowed by his stage presence. While the Gala has been put on hold due to the pandemic, the team looks forward to the day when the event can be resumed, with Erik again taking on the job of being the entertainment for the evening.