Comedian Eric Nieves is to be a part of the Latino Heritage Celebration with his stand-up comedy act.

Born in Puerto Rico and raised in the Bronx in New York, Nieves is an example of a Latino American who has made something of himself.

“Latino people need someone who can really represent them, besides George Lopez,” said Nieves’ Manager, Joey Edmonds.

Nieves made his comedy debut in 1994. He has done more than 500 shows and currently travels to different college campuses entertaining the students.

His comedy act, which will be held at 9 p.m. Friday in the 7th Street Underground, does not consist of one-liners, but instead uses stories that compel his audiences and make them laugh, as well.

“He relates to people so well,” Edmonds said; he also added that Nieves gets to know his audiences pretty quickly and relates his show to his viewers. His show is very energetic, with a lot of moving around and acting involved, he said.

Not only is Nieves a comedian, but he could soon be featured as an actor on a situation TV comedy show. The show’s premise is about two brothers who were separated at birth and end up in completely different environments, one in a wealthy family and one in the Bronx, which hits home for Nieves, Edmonds said.

Nieves recently ventured into the world of script writing as well. He and his friend wrote a script, which will be sent to a producer who could turn it into a movie.

Chris Stanfield, University Board comedy coordinator, said Nieves coincided well with the theme of the Latino Heritage Celebration.