For Larry Omaha, Chicanos can relate to Native American comedy because the two groups share a similar experience and the same blood.

“Chicanos can relate because we’re on the same boat when it comes to America,” said the Native American comedian. “We both see the mainstream from the eyes of disenchanted people. We’re all Indios up and down the continent.”

Omaha will be part of a special performance in San Diego of Showtime’s smash hit show, “Goin’ Native: The American Indian Comedy Slam,” which will come to 4th & B on Wednesday, April 7th at 9 p.m. The event also features Paula Bowers-Sanchez, winner of the Seminole star search, “Native Music Rocks.”

The event is part of The 2010 National Indian Gaming Association Annual Convention.  Although this live show is being presented as part of the convention, it is open to the public.

There are many jokes that Chicanos and Native Americans share.

Omaha, whose father is Mexican and mother is Yaqui, said one of the recurring jokes between both groups is housing.

“We were so poor growing up, that we had 20 people jammed into a house,” said Omaha, laughing. “It was pretty traumatic.”

Besides Omaha, the historic show features the biggest names in Native American talent, including legendary comedian Charlie Hill, who began his career on the Richard Pryor show blazing the trail for all Native comics that have followed him.

Hill also said that Latinos and Native Americans share the same roots.

“When I’m in front of Latinos I don’t have to explain anything,” he said. “We are the same blood, different culture. I consider them . We’re all Indigenous.”

In addition to the two veteran comedians, the show features a new wave of talents, such as Pop Wow Comedy Jam members, JR Redwater and Vaughn Eaglebear.

“Over the years I have worked with Charlie Hill and Larry Omaha and the idea of producing a historical show like this for a mass audience has always been a goal,” said American Indian Comedy Slam director and producer of the acclaimed hit The Original Latin Kings of Comedy, Scott Montoya.  “I am honored that we finally made this a reality. Anyone who attends this live show will feel the healing power of comedy.”

This is a rare opportunity for San Diego audiences to experience Native American comedy and music on stage, something that historically has been ignored in our region, although the county is home to many Indigenous nations.

“The National Indian Gaming Association is proud to be presenting the American Indian Comedy Slam show as part of Indian Gaming 2010, not only because of the recent success of their Showtime premier, but because these Native comedians are just very funny people,” said Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Association Ernie Steven. “We are also excited to be presenting this show in conjunction with the Seminole’s Native Music Rocks, which will showcase the winner of their very popular Seminole Star Search contest, Paula Bowers Sanchez.  This will truly be the Indian Gaming 2010 Trade Show and Convention Comedy & Music Extravaganza and definitely a show not to be missed.”

Omaha said that the show is an alternative to mainstream comedy, but that anybody can enjoy it.

“Anybody who comes will laugh like they’ve never laughed before, with a Native American point of view that’s rarely seen. That’s why this is so exciting,” he said. “This is comedy that crosses over barriers.”

Omaha said that people’s bellies will not only “hurt for laughing so hard, but they will leave with a better understanding of native peoples.”

Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door, available through www.ticketmaster.com.