Comedian Hannibal Buress performs a routine in the Hughes-Trigg theatre Thursday evening. (Spencer J Eggers/The Daily Campus)

Stand-up comedian and television writer, Hannibal Buress, kept his audience’s attention during his lively performance at Southern Methodist University Thursday night.

Buress got his start on The Awkward Comedy Show on Comedy Central and has been on America’s radar ever since.

In 2009, Buress began writing for Saturday Night Live. In 2010, Buress began writing for the fifth season of NBC’s 30 Rock. He played a “homeless guy” or a “bum” several times throughout the season.

The show was put on by SMU’s Program Council. Elise McDonald, Program Council president, was pleased with the audience’s reception of Buress.

“I thought he was great. We haven’t had a comedian come to perform in a long time, so I’m glad people enjoyed it,” McDonald said.

His effortless humor tackled a wide range of topics including his love of the iPad and an SNL skit he wrote for Megan Fox, where she is a horror movie villain who kills her victims with scatting.

“That didn’t make it onto the show, but she did have to read it at the table read,” Buress said.

And for all those wondering, yes, his real name is Hannibal.

“My brother’s name is David. My sister’s name is Angela. My name is Hannibal,” Buress said.

The comedian humorously complained about several topics including airline security and his disdain for the movie, Paranormal Activity. He kept the audience engaged throughout his hour-long performance, often going out into the audience to talk one-on-one with the students.

“He kept it lively. He did a really good job playing off the audience. There was never a quiet moment,” said SMU student, Keith Adler.

Buress touched on several of the perks of being famous, like meeting Megan Fox and opening for Tracy Morgan, but it hasn’t been all fun and games for the comedian. He complained of his arch nemesis, his teenage cousin, constantly criticizing his comedy and the annoying habit that fans have developed.

“What’s funny about about comedy is that when people find out what you do they always ask you to tell a joke,” said Buress. “You do comedy? Well tell me a joke!”

But when there is a stage, an audience and the lighting is just right, Buress is happy to tell a few jokes.

“I think he’s spectacular,” SMU student, Riley Moore said.