I woke up fairly late today, hung out and watched TPIR and Wimbledon. I continued to hang out well into the afternoon, until I left for the train to the city. I missed the 4:37, which I wanted to take, but luckily there was a 4:45, so that was all good. After my class I just barely caught the 8:35 home, but I did it! Hooray!
So my final class was interesting. There were about a dozen of us there and we watched all of our performances. I liked watching myself, but agree with some comments that my timing w.r.t the audience was a bit off. I was definitely rushing to avoid being kicked off before I finished my jokes. But otherwise, I was pleased. He then talked for a bit about the "business" side. Most of it was not particularly useful at this moment in time, as I am not aiming to make it my business. The information about agents and managers seemed superfluous. But the information about different types of shows, how to get spots, how to make a name for yourself, how to utilize open-mics, that was all good information. And his main message was that, so long as one condition is met, you will make this your living. The condition? Be "undeniably good." OK, now I have a clear goal to work towards...
I think also significant is that this final class means that I am on my own for the rest of the summer. From tomorrow through about August 22 (when our sub-lease expires) I will most likely be only in DC, answering only to myself. That is 50ish days/7ish weeks of just doing my own thing. I think the first thing I need to do is find some semblance of a routine. No more of this "OK, I'll start work at 1:00" business, which often results in work starting at 3:00. I think it will help me be productive comedically as well as non comedically. If I'm not working on my stuff, I may as well be playing piano, starting a band arrangement, or even venturing into the city. But this is the most freedom I've ever had, and I'm interested to see what I make of it.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Chilling
By design, no comedy today. Just hung out doing very little. I did get positive reviews from two audience members who happened to be my parents. A fairly impartial jury, I think. Tomorrow I'll watch the video at my screening and face my toughest critic - myself. Too cliched? Probably. Oh well.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Debuting
Not much happened today...o wait! I'll get to that in a second. Before that though, other mildly notable things. First, I woke up at 9. After acknowledging that little was on TV, I went back to sleep from 10-12. But since I got out of bed and actively engaged in something else, that qualifies as a nap, not going back to sleep. So yes, I took a nap in the morning. Jealous? Probably. Then I drove up to Princeton and took the train to NYC.
I walked down to the club. But because I am stupid I thought it was between 8th and 9th and not 7th and 8th, so I could not find it. But I got there just after 5, which was fine. We did a mic check quickly, and Steve told us to cut our Michael Jackson jokes. Then I waited around as people came in. Sitting there was probably the worst part. I knew I knew my routine, but I kept going over it. And I was worried about slight changes in timing. In retrospect, I should have realized that my set was fixed, and fussing about 10 seconds was not worth it. But alas, it was not the case.
So I was fifth, which I think was a good place to be. The crowd was warmed up and delightfully buzzed, but not drunk such that they could not parse my language. I remembered everything, and overall it went well. I think everything that was supposed to get a laugh did, and some were pretty significant. And it just felt awesome. The feeling is so good. Making 200 laugh at once - ridiculous. I was pretty happy. Even though my supporters were cheering loudly, I think most people thought I did a good job.
The rest of the comics were good. Alas, I had heard most of them in class, so the fourth time is never as funny. There was one comedian at the end who did some pretty funny Zelda jokes that only a few people laughed at. But they were good. Then a bunch of us went to get Chipotle and then took the train home. Overnight in Princeton, hanging here tomorrow.
To those of you who came out tonight: Thank you, thank you, thank you. It was great to have such support. And to those of you who did not, do not sweat it. I am hopeful and optimistic that I will have plenty of performances in the future.
I walked down to the club. But because I am stupid I thought it was between 8th and 9th and not 7th and 8th, so I could not find it. But I got there just after 5, which was fine. We did a mic check quickly, and Steve told us to cut our Michael Jackson jokes. Then I waited around as people came in. Sitting there was probably the worst part. I knew I knew my routine, but I kept going over it. And I was worried about slight changes in timing. In retrospect, I should have realized that my set was fixed, and fussing about 10 seconds was not worth it. But alas, it was not the case.
So I was fifth, which I think was a good place to be. The crowd was warmed up and delightfully buzzed, but not drunk such that they could not parse my language. I remembered everything, and overall it went well. I think everything that was supposed to get a laugh did, and some were pretty significant. And it just felt awesome. The feeling is so good. Making 200 laugh at once - ridiculous. I was pretty happy. Even though my supporters were cheering loudly, I think most people thought I did a good job.
The rest of the comics were good. Alas, I had heard most of them in class, so the fourth time is never as funny. There was one comedian at the end who did some pretty funny Zelda jokes that only a few people laughed at. But they were good. Then a bunch of us went to get Chipotle and then took the train home. Overnight in Princeton, hanging here tomorrow.
To those of you who came out tonight: Thank you, thank you, thank you. It was great to have such support. And to those of you who did not, do not sweat it. I am hopeful and optimistic that I will have plenty of performances in the future.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Disbelieving
So on my home page it says this blog had 33 posts and my other had 32. But when I looked it claimed I had only 31. Turns out that it counts drafts. Which is dumb. So I'll just cheat. So this is 32!! and...
Surpassing
If you were unaware, I had another blog that I updated for a brief period. It was an analysis/hatred of Family Circus and Fred Basset comics. But with this post, this blog has more posts! So hooray! And if you're ever really bored, check it out, comicsihate.blogspot.com. Stupid Family Circus.
Anyway, not too much to report from today. Hung out in the morning, got a haircut (no, I got all of them cut. Ha. Ha.) Hung out more, went to Gramma's for dinner. Her fried chicken is top notch. A pretty laid back day.
Now I am rehearsing for tomorrow. My time is right on, now I just have to memorize, which should not be too bad since I wrote it, am fairly familiar with it, and the exact wording does not really matter that much. So, with a bit more tonight and some tomorrow, I should be set.
Anyway, not too much to report from today. Hung out in the morning, got a haircut (no, I got all of them cut. Ha. Ha.) Hung out more, went to Gramma's for dinner. Her fried chicken is top notch. A pretty laid back day.
Now I am rehearsing for tomorrow. My time is right on, now I just have to memorize, which should not be too bad since I wrote it, am fairly familiar with it, and the exact wording does not really matter that much. So, with a bit more tonight and some tomorrow, I should be set.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Homecoming
OK, that is not a verb. But it ends in -ing. So I'll take it.
This morning I had my last private lesson, also my last tune-up before my Sunday performance. I think it was helpful. We made some cuts and rewrote some jokes. I still think it's difficult to have a sense of what is funny aside from my own intuition. Or trying it out. I'm not sure where the in between is. Maybe I'll just have to develop my intuition, or be more critical/realistic with regard to my own writing. That will come with time, hopefully.
That was the only comedy for today. Aside from the performance, this weekend will be pretty comedy-less as I am constantly relocating and freeloading and being not in DC probably for the last time this summer. I took the train back to Princeton and then drove home (boo traffic on the Blue Route.) Then I really just hung out tonight, doing very little. That's OK though, I knew this weekend would be light.
A noteworthy story, though: While watching Jeopardy, I see that the final category is 19th Century American Literature. I proclaim "The Scarlet Letter." Than the answer comes up along the lines of "By the end of this tale, 'The mark was no longer a sign of shame.' " It was indeed the Scarlet Letter. I am so good.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Driving
I know, an unexciting verb. But I did do a lot of driving today. Headed out from DC at about 11 and arrived in Princeton at 3. Google maps said 3 hours 19 minutes, but every major road decided to have construction, including some stop and go on 95. But otherwise a fine trip. I took the train to NYC for my class. After class I grabbed Chipotle (mmm) and headed for my final stay at the Barnes/Ford residence. Now of course we are watching fake football.
The only comedy I did today was my class. It was a packed house. Class went along as usual. It's weird to hear some of the same stuff every time, but there was some new stuff as well. I did not do as well as I would have liked, I think I read too much. But some new jokes worked and some did not, so I'll keep the good and revert to the old for the not good. We got some information about the show, but it was pretty much what I expected.
I guess the highlight(?) of the class was a pretty lengthy inspirational speech about "The Voice." It's the moniker Steve gave to the negative thoughts in our heads, our inability to think reasonably about our performances. I usually don't believe in these things, but I think he pretty much got it right. What I took away is that it is helpful and necessary to be critical of myself, just not in a negative way. I should not think "that performance was bad." Such general and not insightful comments do not help. Instead I should be thinking about which jokes worked, which got big laughs, how I interacted with the audience. I can say "that joke sucked" and not care, so long as it is helpful. So, a bit of fluff, I know, but worthwhile.
The only comedy I did today was my class. It was a packed house. Class went along as usual. It's weird to hear some of the same stuff every time, but there was some new stuff as well. I did not do as well as I would have liked, I think I read too much. But some new jokes worked and some did not, so I'll keep the good and revert to the old for the not good. We got some information about the show, but it was pretty much what I expected.
I guess the highlight(?) of the class was a pretty lengthy inspirational speech about "The Voice." It's the moniker Steve gave to the negative thoughts in our heads, our inability to think reasonably about our performances. I usually don't believe in these things, but I think he pretty much got it right. What I took away is that it is helpful and necessary to be critical of myself, just not in a negative way. I should not think "that performance was bad." Such general and not insightful comments do not help. Instead I should be thinking about which jokes worked, which got big laughs, how I interacted with the audience. I can say "that joke sucked" and not care, so long as it is helpful. So, a bit of fluff, I know, but worthwhile.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Finalizing
Today was more productive. I'm sensing an upward trend. In the morning I watched Wimbledon and TPIR. I made eggs for breakfast. I wanted to use up my stuff in the fridge since I won't be in DC for a week. They were good. Dinner was tuna and an egg roll that I appended to someone else's take out order. Now I'm just hanging out before I go to bed, I must be awake for my drive tomorrow.
Before my comedy update, here is the basic arc for the next week or so:
Tomorrow: Travel from DC to Princeton, Princeton to NYC, overnight in NYC.
Friday: Back from NYC, home to Havertown.
Saturday: More Havertown
Sunday: Get somehow from Havertown to NYC for my show, then back to Princeton.
Monday: Hang out in Princeton.
Tuesday: Princeton in the day, to NYC for my last class in the evening, back to Princeton for the night.
Wednesday: Travel back to DC
Anyway...
Today was very productive comically. I put in a good amount of work. In the afternoon, I went through the routines/jokes I thought I might use on Sunday and refined them. I did a lot of scrapping, rewriting, rewording, and new writing. I think yesterday's mullings were a little too extreme. It's OK to think of jokes about a subject. It's not OK to think of jokes as part of a story. The story comes from the jokes, not the other way around. To have a story there needs to be some basic connection, but I cannot just tell a story and call each line a joke. The jokes need to have, at least abstractly, the setup-punchline format. My grand revelation is what people have known for years. And I haven't been at this very long, so these thoughts may be nonsense. But at least I'm figuring things out? Maybe.
In the evening I picked what I'm doing for Sunday and rehearsed it a bit. I'm pretty happy with what I picked. It's hard to tell what my best material is since I've only performed a tiny bit. But I think this is good stuff, things that will to some degree stay in my rep. The time fluctuates as my ad-libbing does, but it's right in the 4-5 minute range that it's supposed to be. So that's good. I'll rehearse maybe on the drive tomorrow, on the train, and I still have the weekend. So I'll be good. I think it will be a good set.
Before my comedy update, here is the basic arc for the next week or so:
Tomorrow: Travel from DC to Princeton, Princeton to NYC, overnight in NYC.
Friday: Back from NYC, home to Havertown.
Saturday: More Havertown
Sunday: Get somehow from Havertown to NYC for my show, then back to Princeton.
Monday: Hang out in Princeton.
Tuesday: Princeton in the day, to NYC for my last class in the evening, back to Princeton for the night.
Wednesday: Travel back to DC
Anyway...
Today was very productive comically. I put in a good amount of work. In the afternoon, I went through the routines/jokes I thought I might use on Sunday and refined them. I did a lot of scrapping, rewriting, rewording, and new writing. I think yesterday's mullings were a little too extreme. It's OK to think of jokes about a subject. It's not OK to think of jokes as part of a story. The story comes from the jokes, not the other way around. To have a story there needs to be some basic connection, but I cannot just tell a story and call each line a joke. The jokes need to have, at least abstractly, the setup-punchline format. My grand revelation is what people have known for years. And I haven't been at this very long, so these thoughts may be nonsense. But at least I'm figuring things out? Maybe.
In the evening I picked what I'm doing for Sunday and rehearsed it a bit. I'm pretty happy with what I picked. It's hard to tell what my best material is since I've only performed a tiny bit. But I think this is good stuff, things that will to some degree stay in my rep. The time fluctuates as my ad-libbing does, but it's right in the 4-5 minute range that it's supposed to be. So that's good. I'll rehearse maybe on the drive tomorrow, on the train, and I still have the weekend. So I'll be good. I think it will be a good set.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Refocusing
As promised, I did more comedy things today. First though, I woke up and beat the Shadow Temple. Not too tough. Then watched the Price is Right and Wimbledon, both entertaining. Finished the eggplant parm for lunch, still delicious. In the afternoon I helped facilitate the delivery of Bill's mo-ped, which is partially put together in the garage now. Dinner was eggs and leftover rice, then I just pretty much hang out afterward.
The afternoon was productive comedy related. I spent a while on the phone with Gotham finalizing reservations and such, then wrote an e-mail with plans for Sunday. I'm looking forward to performing for people I know - I better not disappoint. But I shan't, no worries. Then I spent some time writing, working on my stuff for Sunday. I wrote some new jokes, reworked some old ones, and made some temporary scraps. I think the hardest part for me will be throwing jokes away. Especially the ones that I think are funny but no one else does. As I perform more it will be clear what works and what doesn't - two performances are not much, and that's only for 3 minutes of material.
I'll also decided that I think I'm writing a bit backwards. I've been writing jokes about a topic, while I should be writing jokes and then coming up with the topics later. It's easier to think of funny things then of funny things about bananas (though those jokes pretty much write themselves. Hehe bananas.) So I think that's a change that needs to be made. So instead of writing routines I write jokes that become routines.
The afternoon was productive comedy related. I spent a while on the phone with Gotham finalizing reservations and such, then wrote an e-mail with plans for Sunday. I'm looking forward to performing for people I know - I better not disappoint. But I shan't, no worries. Then I spent some time writing, working on my stuff for Sunday. I wrote some new jokes, reworked some old ones, and made some temporary scraps. I think the hardest part for me will be throwing jokes away. Especially the ones that I think are funny but no one else does. As I perform more it will be clear what works and what doesn't - two performances are not much, and that's only for 3 minutes of material.
I'll also decided that I think I'm writing a bit backwards. I've been writing jokes about a topic, while I should be writing jokes and then coming up with the topics later. It's easier to think of funny things then of funny things about bananas (though those jokes pretty much write themselves. Hehe bananas.) So I think that's a change that needs to be made. So instead of writing routines I write jokes that become routines.
Monday, June 22, 2009
ReSlacking
OK, I swear, tomorrow, I will be really productive with regard to comedy. I will keep this post super short so I don't fool myself into thinking I did things. But today, I: watched the end of the US open. A bit anticlimactic, but still a good tournament. Beat the ice cavern/Water Temple, much easier than I remembered. Played some piano. No new chords, but some trickier hand movement, more of both hands playing together. Had my leftovers from yesterday, even for the same meals. I have a bit of eggplant left. Cleaned up a bit, dishes, my side of the room, etc.
OK, not an exciting day. But I worked on Saturday, so these past two days were my "weekend?" That's a stretch, but I'll take it. Tomorrow, productive.
OK, not an exciting day. But I worked on Saturday, so these past two days were my "weekend?" That's a stretch, but I'll take it. Tomorrow, productive.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Slacking
OK, I did not do any comedy today. I just hung out. Tomorrow though, comedy for sure.
I beat the Fire Temple today. It was pretty straightforward. Once everyone was up we went on a kitchen cleaning spree, which was pretty rewarding. Then I made an oatmeal-breaded eggplant parm, with homemade tomato/onion/red pepper/spinach sauce. It was delicious. In the afternoon I did almost nothing. For dinner I made honey mustard chicken with rice pilaf. A pretty good food day, otherwise not exciting. We watched the Ninja Warrior marathon and are now watching Next Food Network Star. So, a lazy day, real work tomorrow.
I beat the Fire Temple today. It was pretty straightforward. Once everyone was up we went on a kitchen cleaning spree, which was pretty rewarding. Then I made an oatmeal-breaded eggplant parm, with homemade tomato/onion/red pepper/spinach sauce. It was delicious. In the afternoon I did almost nothing. For dinner I made honey mustard chicken with rice pilaf. A pretty good food day, otherwise not exciting. We watched the Ninja Warrior marathon and are now watching Next Food Network Star. So, a lazy day, real work tomorrow.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Repeating
Today was a lazy day. Beat the forest temple. Nice. Another day of frosted mini wheats for breakfast/lunch and tuna for dinner. I should probably go shopping...or be less lazy. I also spent forever trying in vain to hook up a printer. It should really not be that difficult. Anyway...
I had my gig tonight. First I spent a couple hours in the afternoon working on my act, trying to incorporate some of the things we talked about in my private. I think it was more difficult to work on them because they weren't 100% my idea, but hopefully it will improve them. I stuck with pretty much the same material (hence repeating) I did on Wednesday, but tweaked some of the jokes.
I decided to drive because Google maps claimed it was 26 minutes. That was a bit short, but whatever. Still though, this city is awful for driving. Truly awful. I got there in time and waited. The other comedians were good, always a mix, there was another "Bright Young Face." That's my official title. I was on after intermission. I think I did OK, it didn't feel as good as the first time. I think the crowd was a) older and b) less drunk (a cash bar with $8 mixed drinks vs. a pub with $2 miller lite bottles.) People still laughed, just not as much I don't think. So not spectacular, but decent. I think I had a beginner's rush deal, and now that it has worn off I need to actually be funnier. They also may have had higher expectations since there was a cover. So, not great, but not bad. Next time I'll do some new material, build up the rep. The last guy tonight went for 50 minutes. Granted, a lot of that was crowd work, but still, that's a lot of material. Someday.
I had my gig tonight. First I spent a couple hours in the afternoon working on my act, trying to incorporate some of the things we talked about in my private. I think it was more difficult to work on them because they weren't 100% my idea, but hopefully it will improve them. I stuck with pretty much the same material (hence repeating) I did on Wednesday, but tweaked some of the jokes.
I decided to drive because Google maps claimed it was 26 minutes. That was a bit short, but whatever. Still though, this city is awful for driving. Truly awful. I got there in time and waited. The other comedians were good, always a mix, there was another "Bright Young Face." That's my official title. I was on after intermission. I think I did OK, it didn't feel as good as the first time. I think the crowd was a) older and b) less drunk (a cash bar with $8 mixed drinks vs. a pub with $2 miller lite bottles.) People still laughed, just not as much I don't think. So not spectacular, but decent. I think I had a beginner's rush deal, and now that it has worn off I need to actually be funnier. They also may have had higher expectations since there was a cover. So, not great, but not bad. Next time I'll do some new material, build up the rep. The last guy tonight went for 50 minutes. Granted, a lot of that was crowd work, but still, that's a lot of material. Someday.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Re-Relocating
Today was pretty uneventful. After a full night of sleep on couch de Barnes/Ford, I watched some rainy golf before my lesson. Also, on the subway, there was someone playing the clarinet very well. I was impressed. The bus ride home was pretty similar to the one up. The internet wasn't as good, though. And it took longer than expected, again. I think the 4:15 is just to attract people, while most trips come in just under 5:00. I waited in line forever at the Post Office to get a package, which was frustrating. When I came home I just ate and crashed, nothing exciting.
The only comedy thing I did today was my private lesson. It was decently helpful, examining my routine line by line and working on the phrasing and making it more concise. I think more helpful than the lesson itself was the knowledge that I could be critical of myself. I feel like I had a good sense of where my weakpoints were. So I'll be able to apply this to my future endeavors.
Long two days of travel. Note to self: do not get a job requiring frequent, lengthy trips.
The only comedy thing I did today was my private lesson. It was decently helpful, examining my routine line by line and working on the phrasing and making it more concise. I think more helpful than the lesson itself was the knowledge that I could be critical of myself. I feel like I had a good sense of where my weakpoints were. So I'll be able to apply this to my future endeavors.
Long two days of travel. Note to self: do not get a job requiring frequent, lengthy trips.
Performance the Second
Apparently my Wednesday performance at the Ri-Ra went well, as I was asked to perform at the Bethesda Hyatt show this Saturday. This is the show that I saw last weekend. The info:
8-10 pm
Saturday, June 20th
Bethesda Hyatt
See the flyer here
8-10 pm
Saturday, June 20th
Bethesda Hyatt
See the flyer here
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Relocating
I'm running out of relevant verbs. This morning I just killed time until I had to leave for the bus. My laptop cooling pad came right before I left, so I used it on the bus. I left a little after 12, took the metro, then walked to the bus. It was easy enough to find in the midst of a large parking lot. We boarded and left on time, and I was pretty close to having a whole 2 seats to myself, but someone sat next to me at the last minute. Oh well. I took a nice nap. The trip took 5 hours, including about an hour getting from Newark to our parking spot near Penn Station. I recommend Bolt for your bus travel needs.
On the way up, I worked on my comedy. I'm trying to group my jokes by category, and then write them joke by joke within each one. That way it's easier to focus on the setup/punchline structure. But for now I'm just trying to get my ideas down. A recent count reveals 9 topics, about 2-3 minutes per topic. So I theoretically have 20 minutes of material. But none of that is honed. But it's there for the molding. I do enjoy just writing and just stream of consciousness-ly putting down things I find funny.
My class was similar to last time. It was smaller, probably just randomly, as people go to either Tuesday or Thursday. I presented the stuff I performed yesterday as well as some new things. Everything went well, and I'm looking forward to working on it with him tomorrow. I think our time will be useful while I'm there, but also in helping learn what it means to work on a joke.
Staying at casa de Barnes/Ford. Watching fake football and sleeping on their pretty comfy couch.
On the way up, I worked on my comedy. I'm trying to group my jokes by category, and then write them joke by joke within each one. That way it's easier to focus on the setup/punchline structure. But for now I'm just trying to get my ideas down. A recent count reveals 9 topics, about 2-3 minutes per topic. So I theoretically have 20 minutes of material. But none of that is honed. But it's there for the molding. I do enjoy just writing and just stream of consciousness-ly putting down things I find funny.
My class was similar to last time. It was smaller, probably just randomly, as people go to either Tuesday or Thursday. I presented the stuff I performed yesterday as well as some new things. Everything went well, and I'm looking forward to working on it with him tomorrow. I think our time will be useful while I'm there, but also in helping learn what it means to work on a joke.
Staying at casa de Barnes/Ford. Watching fake football and sleeping on their pretty comfy couch.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Performing
Well, my first performance. But I'll leave you in suspense while I describe my other activities. Slept in a bit more. Maybe I'm getting used to this new bed? I was never a believer in that theory, but it may be true. Played some Zelda, watched some Price is Right. I like this morning routine. After lunch Sam and I went to do some errands. I maintain that this is the least car-friendly city I've driven in, putting it tops on a list of one. Still though, not a fan. But I think it still beats taking the metro. I spent the afternoon working on my act a bit more and also rehearsing for tonight. Dinner was pasta with a homemade tomato/onion/garlic/pepper/spinach sauce. With leftovers for lunch tomorrow!
Now what you've been waiting for...
I got there just in time to check in. It was about a 1/2 hour there, including one or two minor wrong turns. I had the chance to chat with some of the other comedians. Some were new, some had been at it for a while. Everyone seemed friendly, wishing good shows for everyone. And I think that's part niceness and part selfishness. If the audience starts laughing, they will keep laughing. So I anxiously watched the other comedians. I was somewhere towards the end, so I tried to listen and not over-rehearse in my head. Again a range of comedians in terms of quality, but a lot of funny material.
My 3 minutes went by faster than I would have thought. I managed the mic pretty well, not really letting it get in my way. The lights were much brighter than I expected. I wonder if I'd felt out the stage a little bit (all 6 square feet of it) I could have found the least blinding spot. But I didn't have time, and time is funny, so I just went. And I think it went well. The audience was consistently laughing. When I messed up a punchline, I made fun of it and people laughed. I remembered all of my lines, my timing was solid, and people enjoyed it. Here are what some people are saying about my performance:
"One of the best amateur comedians." - Sam Gallicchio
"You had the timing down." - Guy who shook my hand.
"Nice job." - Some other guy.
So, all around positive reviews. Let me take this time to mention something that I've been saying casually for a bit: making people laugh is the greatest feeling in the world. As the only good assembly person to come to HHS said, there are some natural highs that are the key to life. And for me, this is probably it. The greatest feeling in the world. So it looks like I've chosen a good hobby/talent/profession. It feels good.
Now what you've been waiting for...
I got there just in time to check in. It was about a 1/2 hour there, including one or two minor wrong turns. I had the chance to chat with some of the other comedians. Some were new, some had been at it for a while. Everyone seemed friendly, wishing good shows for everyone. And I think that's part niceness and part selfishness. If the audience starts laughing, they will keep laughing. So I anxiously watched the other comedians. I was somewhere towards the end, so I tried to listen and not over-rehearse in my head. Again a range of comedians in terms of quality, but a lot of funny material.
My 3 minutes went by faster than I would have thought. I managed the mic pretty well, not really letting it get in my way. The lights were much brighter than I expected. I wonder if I'd felt out the stage a little bit (all 6 square feet of it) I could have found the least blinding spot. But I didn't have time, and time is funny, so I just went. And I think it went well. The audience was consistently laughing. When I messed up a punchline, I made fun of it and people laughed. I remembered all of my lines, my timing was solid, and people enjoyed it. Here are what some people are saying about my performance:
"One of the best amateur comedians." - Sam Gallicchio
"You had the timing down." - Guy who shook my hand.
"Nice job." - Some other guy.
So, all around positive reviews. Let me take this time to mention something that I've been saying casually for a bit: making people laugh is the greatest feeling in the world. As the only good assembly person to come to HHS said, there are some natural highs that are the key to life. And for me, this is probably it. The greatest feeling in the world. So it looks like I've chosen a good hobby/talent/profession. It feels good.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Refining
The standard non-com day. Woke up fairly early, but that's fine. Played a bunch of Zelda and plucked the master sword (they grow up so fast!) Watched the Price is Right, which was won by a really annoying guy with a belt. Grumble. And some guy couldn't figure out that as the last person you should always bid either $1 or $1 more than someone else's bid. Oh well. Played some piano, learned some more chords. I think the count is up to 4. I also learned some new hand positions; I'm turning into a virtuoso. Made some breakfast for dinner, that was pretty good.
Today was pretty productive comedy wise. I watched two comics on comedy central. One was really pushing the Hispanic jokes, which I guess were funny if the punchlines weren't in Spanish. The other was a Jewish woman who really pushed that angle. Apparently she had wacky Jewish family members - not particularly funny. I spent a good portion of the afternoon writing and working on my routine for tomorrow. I wrote some more jokes, it's interesting how once a subject starts it just keeps going. So I think I'm ready for tomorrow, my three minutes of fame.
My adventure tonight was scoping out an open mic night. I decided to drive into Arlington, VA. I left just before darkness, so the way there wasn't so bad. But still, the area around DC is pretty hard to navigate. There are exits everywhere, the exit numbers change as the roads "change." But I made it eventually. The venue was not exactly what I expected - just a microphone in the corner of a restaurant. The total crowd was the 8 comedians, 5 of their friends, and 4 people in the restaurant. A pretty measly crowd. The comedians were not fantastic, but it was a tough room, not a real atmosphere for laughter. There were some good lines in there though. It was a big contrast to the Bethesda show I saw. I imagine tomorrow night will be somewhere in between. But I think I'm less nervous due to the super-casual atmosphere of tonight. Tomorrow is a big day though, better sleep up.
Today was pretty productive comedy wise. I watched two comics on comedy central. One was really pushing the Hispanic jokes, which I guess were funny if the punchlines weren't in Spanish. The other was a Jewish woman who really pushed that angle. Apparently she had wacky Jewish family members - not particularly funny. I spent a good portion of the afternoon writing and working on my routine for tomorrow. I wrote some more jokes, it's interesting how once a subject starts it just keeps going. So I think I'm ready for tomorrow, my three minutes of fame.
My adventure tonight was scoping out an open mic night. I decided to drive into Arlington, VA. I left just before darkness, so the way there wasn't so bad. But still, the area around DC is pretty hard to navigate. There are exits everywhere, the exit numbers change as the roads "change." But I made it eventually. The venue was not exactly what I expected - just a microphone in the corner of a restaurant. The total crowd was the 8 comedians, 5 of their friends, and 4 people in the restaurant. A pretty measly crowd. The comedians were not fantastic, but it was a tough room, not a real atmosphere for laughter. There were some good lines in there though. It was a big contrast to the Bethesda show I saw. I imagine tomorrow night will be somewhere in between. But I think I'm less nervous due to the super-casual atmosphere of tonight. Tomorrow is a big day though, better sleep up.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Prepping
I had a pretty standard morning. Some Zelda (beat Jabu-Jabu's Belly), some Price is Right. The TV was black and white due to some cable movement around the night before, but it was fixed later in the day. Played some keyboard, watched some Ellen, took a nap.
Comedy wise, a pretty good day. I stumbled upon some comedians on Comedy Central and decided to watch. They were both pretty good. The first did a lot of impressions, though, so that's not really my style. The second was more like my "style" (do I have a style?) - more observational, some side comments. People responded well. It's definitely worth watching other comedians. It's also nice to be able to watch tv as part of my "work."
I also prepared for my show on Wednesday. I settled on the material and hashed out exactly what I'm saying. But not exactly exactly, don't want to over-rehearse. Three minutes doesn't seem like a long time now. I'm sure it won't feel like three minutes when I'm on stage, but I don't know if it will feel like a second or like years. But I did some writing, some investigating about my subjects, wrote, refined, worked in my comedy k's. I like this set, it's short but I think funny. I'll work on it more tomorrow.
Comedy wise, a pretty good day. I stumbled upon some comedians on Comedy Central and decided to watch. They were both pretty good. The first did a lot of impressions, though, so that's not really my style. The second was more like my "style" (do I have a style?) - more observational, some side comments. People responded well. It's definitely worth watching other comedians. It's also nice to be able to watch tv as part of my "work."
I also prepared for my show on Wednesday. I settled on the material and hashed out exactly what I'm saying. But not exactly exactly, don't want to over-rehearse. Three minutes doesn't seem like a long time now. I'm sure it won't feel like three minutes when I'm on stage, but I don't know if it will feel like a second or like years. But I did some writing, some investigating about my subjects, wrote, refined, worked in my comedy k's. I like this set, it's short but I think funny. I'll work on it more tomorrow.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Performance the First
My first performance will be this Wednesday. I'll be performing a 3 minute set (as all newbies do) between 8 and 10 at Ri Ra Irish Pub in Arlington, Virginia. Should be quite an adventure!
Starting
I didn't do much comedy today. Sunday is a day of a rest. Literally, I took a nap. And slept. And played (and beat!!!!!111one!)Roller Coaster Tycoon. There was a fair amount of movie watching as well - The Simpsons Movie, Aladdin, Jumper, all on throughout the day. Dinner was a pretty delicious barbecue. Hamburgers, hot dogs, corn, cole slaw, baked beans, watermelon, sherbert. Delicious.
In comedy news, I did really only one thing, but it was a big one. I booked my first show! Check the next post for information (I'll try to keep them separate).
In comedy news, I did really only one thing, but it was a big one. I booked my first show! Check the next post for information (I'll try to keep them separate).
Scouting
There was an impromptu visit from Carol this weekend. So today we did DCish things. Went to the zoo, went to a veg cafe. Maybe more touristy things tomorrow. We also rode the Metro successfully multiple times. I have to say though, I'm not terribly impressed. The trains are too sporadic (I can't wait 1o minutes!) and there were some delays. But this is compared to New York, which, first, is much larger, and second, had me taking trips from some of the more populated stations. So, I shall reserve my judgement.
Tonight was my first live stand-up experience --listening, not watching. But it was important for me to get a feel for the atmosphere, the experience, and the flow. It was a show at the fabulous Hyatt hotel in Bethesda, MD. It was not stricty open mic, as it is a paid show. But the guy hires people he likes from his open mic nights, so this may be in my future. We shall see.
There were 4 comedians and an emcee, who talked a lot more than I would expect him to. He did most of the crowd pandering/mocking/joking. It was good, people liked it. Sometimes it seemed a bit edgy, but it might be his job to set the taboo bar high so none of the comedians feel like they can't say something. The 4 comedians were decent. Some really hilarious things, some not. They had definitely been at it a long time. One claimed to have been in comedy since 1993. I was 3 then. That was a long time ago. But I think I learned a fair amount, how to carry myself, how to use the energy in the room. It's much different then watching at home.
Also, there was a competition at the end to tell a joke to win a prize. I told this gem, which got a not so great response: "My quack doctor told me to get a lobotomy. I gave him a piece of my mind." I swear it's funny. People were just too drunk at that point.
At least now I have a clearer sense of my goal. And my eye is certainly on the prize.
Tonight was my first live stand-up experience --listening, not watching. But it was important for me to get a feel for the atmosphere, the experience, and the flow. It was a show at the fabulous Hyatt hotel in Bethesda, MD. It was not stricty open mic, as it is a paid show. But the guy hires people he likes from his open mic nights, so this may be in my future. We shall see.
There were 4 comedians and an emcee, who talked a lot more than I would expect him to. He did most of the crowd pandering/mocking/joking. It was good, people liked it. Sometimes it seemed a bit edgy, but it might be his job to set the taboo bar high so none of the comedians feel like they can't say something. The 4 comedians were decent. Some really hilarious things, some not. They had definitely been at it a long time. One claimed to have been in comedy since 1993. I was 3 then. That was a long time ago. But I think I learned a fair amount, how to carry myself, how to use the energy in the room. It's much different then watching at home.
Also, there was a competition at the end to tell a joke to win a prize. I told this gem, which got a not so great response: "My quack doctor told me to get a lobotomy. I gave him a piece of my mind." I swear it's funny. People were just too drunk at that point.
At least now I have a clearer sense of my goal. And my eye is certainly on the prize.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Writing
I've decided I'm talking too much about non-comedy exploits. So I'll try to keep those to a short paragraph (not counting this one.)
Up around 9, played RCT, Sportscenter, TPIR, the usual. Had Frosted Mini-Wheats, forgot how delicious they were. Played some piano, learned the F chord position and other things, played some nifty songs. A little Ocarina of time, leftovers for dinner, some N64. Pretty solid non-comedically.
Comedically, I did two things. I finished sending a lot of e-mails. I haven't gotten very much back. One e-mail said he was full and offered me time in somewhere too far away. The other was very helpful. It's from a guy who runs 3 shows a week (one is paid...crazy...), and it seems very together. He included a guide document for newbies, geared towards his shows but helpful overall. New people start out doing 3 minutes at his shows. That's not a lot of time, but it's worth it to start. I may perform as early as this coming Wednesday, we'll see how I feel.
I also sat down and wrote for the first time (well, while in DC) today. I'm not sure exactly how to go about this process, so it was slow at first. Then I think I made some progress, just getting ideas down and connecting funny thoughts. I'm not exactly sure how funny thoughts become a stand-up routine, aside from just stringing them together. But I feel like I could put together 3 minutes pretty decently, so maybe I will do this Wednesday show. I'll think about it. But I think this was the push I needed to finally start working. Now the creative juices are flowing, and the comedy should just pour forth.
Up around 9, played RCT, Sportscenter, TPIR, the usual. Had Frosted Mini-Wheats, forgot how delicious they were. Played some piano, learned the F chord position and other things, played some nifty songs. A little Ocarina of time, leftovers for dinner, some N64. Pretty solid non-comedically.
Comedically, I did two things. I finished sending a lot of e-mails. I haven't gotten very much back. One e-mail said he was full and offered me time in somewhere too far away. The other was very helpful. It's from a guy who runs 3 shows a week (one is paid...crazy...), and it seems very together. He included a guide document for newbies, geared towards his shows but helpful overall. New people start out doing 3 minutes at his shows. That's not a lot of time, but it's worth it to start. I may perform as early as this coming Wednesday, we'll see how I feel.
I also sat down and wrote for the first time (well, while in DC) today. I'm not sure exactly how to go about this process, so it was slow at first. Then I think I made some progress, just getting ideas down and connecting funny thoughts. I'm not exactly sure how funny thoughts become a stand-up routine, aside from just stringing them together. But I feel like I could put together 3 minutes pretty decently, so maybe I will do this Wednesday show. I'll think about it. But I think this was the push I needed to finally start working. Now the creative juices are flowing, and the comedy should just pour forth.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Hanging Out
Today was my first full day in the house. I took the opportunity to just hang out. The morning was SportsCenter, Price is Right, the usual. Then I went to get groceries at the Giant about 2 miles away. Being the suburbanite that I am, of course I drove. It wasn't so bad, maybe 15 minutes on the road. I took this opportunity to get some staples as well things for meals. This shopping trip should last me 2 weeks, plus or minus. So looks like I'm on budget for now.
In the afternoon I started my self piano lessons. I'm pretty good when I don't have to move my fingers from the C major position. Also went to Amazon and bought a webcam and a laptop cooling padso it doesn't burn my lap. I should've purchased one of them years ago. Oh well. That was exhausting, so it was followed by a nap - I'm pretty keen on one of the couches for napping. That was followed by some Ocarina of Time - the Deku tree gets easier every time.
I whipped up a pretty solid dinner. Peppers, onions, chicken, soy sauce, linguini. Delicious, with leftovers for another meal tomorrow. Then we watched Hitch and some NBA finals. Bed will soon follow.
You're probably wondering where comedy played into today. I could say that I was just being inspired all day. But that would be a large exaggeration. But I did check out dcstandup.com and wrote some e-mails inquiring about open-mic nights. It looks like I should be able to reasonably perform 4-5 nights a week, I'm still waiting to hear back.
That's about all. NBA finals then bed.
In the afternoon I started my self piano lessons. I'm pretty good when I don't have to move my fingers from the C major position. Also went to Amazon and bought a webcam and a laptop cooling padso it doesn't burn my lap. I should've purchased one of them years ago. Oh well. That was exhausting, so it was followed by a nap - I'm pretty keen on one of the couches for napping. That was followed by some Ocarina of Time - the Deku tree gets easier every time.
I whipped up a pretty solid dinner. Peppers, onions, chicken, soy sauce, linguini. Delicious, with leftovers for another meal tomorrow. Then we watched Hitch and some NBA finals. Bed will soon follow.
You're probably wondering where comedy played into today. I could say that I was just being inspired all day. But that would be a large exaggeration. But I did check out dcstandup.com and wrote some e-mails inquiring about open-mic nights. It looks like I should be able to reasonably perform 4-5 nights a week, I'm still waiting to hear back.
That's about all. NBA finals then bed.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Move-In
I left New York this morning with no particular tales to tell. After stopping in Princeton and picking up my keyboard (larger than expected. I'm looking forward to starting.), I headed home. After lunch I packed up my car. Not as full as I expected. The drive down was uneventful, until the end when the directions were unclear and I got a bit lost. But Sam coached me back and eventually I arrived at the house, about 3 hours later.
It's about what I expected. The accommodations seem fine. I have to stock up on cooking supplies and other food, since most of the guys are doing the take-out route. So I'll make a trip at some point. Made my bed, put all of clothes away, all the usual.
Not a terribly exciting day, but it marks the beginning of this phase of my adventure.
It's about what I expected. The accommodations seem fine. I have to stock up on cooking supplies and other food, since most of the guys are doing the take-out route. So I'll make a trip at some point. Made my bed, put all of clothes away, all the usual.
Not a terribly exciting day, but it marks the beginning of this phase of my adventure.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Class One
I had class one today. Before I started writing, after awaking, I watched SportsCenter, played Roller Coaster Tycoon, watched The Price is Right and Judge Hackett, and ate a cupcake. Fun stuff, I know.
First I wrote things I disliked. This was slightly more difficult than expected, because even though I hate a lot of things, some of them are not really applicable (e.g. why don't we have self-scheduled finals. Grumble.) But I put a nice list together, so all was well. Then I wrote my celebrity put-down. I ended up hating on Lindsay Lohan. It definitely ended up sounding pretty forced, but there were some good jokes in there.
I ventured to class, doing better at subway-ing. In class everyone just got up and presented their stuff. Some were professional comedians, so they definitely had their stuff together. But I could see me being there someday. I "performed" to moderate laughter. Most of the feeback was that I had good ideas but needed to work on the jokes, which is good because I thought we were just supposed to write down things that annoyed me. So I have a week now to take these ideas and make jokes.
Then I had a slightly less expert subway ride home, but I made it, so all is good. I grabbed a sandwich from Au Bon Pain and fries from McDonald's (they had a dollar menu. I was shocked.) And now I'm watching fake football, with the main event being Eagles-Cowboys. Nice.
First I wrote things I disliked. This was slightly more difficult than expected, because even though I hate a lot of things, some of them are not really applicable (e.g. why don't we have self-scheduled finals. Grumble.) But I put a nice list together, so all was well. Then I wrote my celebrity put-down. I ended up hating on Lindsay Lohan. It definitely ended up sounding pretty forced, but there were some good jokes in there.
I ventured to class, doing better at subway-ing. In class everyone just got up and presented their stuff. Some were professional comedians, so they definitely had their stuff together. But I could see me being there someday. I "performed" to moderate laughter. Most of the feeback was that I had good ideas but needed to work on the jokes, which is good because I thought we were just supposed to write down things that annoyed me. So I have a week now to take these ideas and make jokes.
Then I had a slightly less expert subway ride home, but I made it, so all is good. I grabbed a sandwich from Au Bon Pain and fries from McDonald's (they had a dollar menu. I was shocked.) And now I'm watching fake football, with the main event being Eagles-Cowboys. Nice.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Orientation
I had orientation today.
First, I managed to navigate NJ transit/Penn Station pretty well, pat on the back there. One person at the hotel didn't know that the comedy thing was there, so I went outside, wandered along 8th Avenue from 34th to 35th, then walked back in and asked someone else. They were more with it.
I signed in and went into the room and waited. People made small talk. Everyone was older, average age was probably about 35. Most people were dressed as if they had just come from work.
Then Steven Rosenfield came in and started talking. This was orientation, so he did most of the talking. We learned our 10 goals (one is Have Fun! hooray). The others are reasonable but unexciting, basically learning to find our sense or humor, learn how to write jokes, learn how to perform, and learn how to be comedians. He talked about types of comedy, and touched on what seems to be the only statistic in comedy, Laughs per Minute, or LPMs. A good show has at least 5 LPMs, 10 is solid.
We watched some comedians that exemplified what he was talking about. Some of what was said was similar to the book I read on the train, other things were different. Steve is more about spontenaity while the book's method is more systematic. We'll see how it goes.
I have three assignments for tomorrow.
1) Rant about thinks that bother me (oh boy!)
2) Do a put-down piece on a celebrity (suggestions welcome)
3) Bring anything else I have
Since this was orientation, everyone was new to comedy. Tomorrow there will be some actual comedians with actual routines. So we'll see.
What followed was some decent subway riding, poor post-subway walking, solid dinner at The Fatty Crab, a long walk to the apartment, and now blogging. I'll close with the exchange of the night.
Hip server at the restaurant who was wearing a retro t-shirt: Isn't it June? What's with the weather?
Barnes: It's balmy.
Hip server : Yes, balmy.
Me: Balmy, hardly even know me!
Everyone, especially Waiter and Ford: HAHAHAHAHAH
OK, I will probably go to sleep once Ford relocates his sleepy self from the couch to his bed. Tomorrow I'll stick around Chez Barnes/Ford and write.
EDIT: More info about my show: Gotham Comedy club, Sunday June 28th. 6 pm. There is a $12 cover and a 2 drink minimum (sorry). It was suggested that I make a reservation, so let me know if you're interested and I'll make a general reservation for my party, and then you can just say you're under my name.
First, I managed to navigate NJ transit/Penn Station pretty well, pat on the back there. One person at the hotel didn't know that the comedy thing was there, so I went outside, wandered along 8th Avenue from 34th to 35th, then walked back in and asked someone else. They were more with it.
I signed in and went into the room and waited. People made small talk. Everyone was older, average age was probably about 35. Most people were dressed as if they had just come from work.
Then Steven Rosenfield came in and started talking. This was orientation, so he did most of the talking. We learned our 10 goals (one is Have Fun! hooray). The others are reasonable but unexciting, basically learning to find our sense or humor, learn how to write jokes, learn how to perform, and learn how to be comedians. He talked about types of comedy, and touched on what seems to be the only statistic in comedy, Laughs per Minute, or LPMs. A good show has at least 5 LPMs, 10 is solid.
We watched some comedians that exemplified what he was talking about. Some of what was said was similar to the book I read on the train, other things were different. Steve is more about spontenaity while the book's method is more systematic. We'll see how it goes.
I have three assignments for tomorrow.
1) Rant about thinks that bother me (oh boy!)
2) Do a put-down piece on a celebrity (suggestions welcome)
3) Bring anything else I have
Since this was orientation, everyone was new to comedy. Tomorrow there will be some actual comedians with actual routines. So we'll see.
What followed was some decent subway riding, poor post-subway walking, solid dinner at The Fatty Crab, a long walk to the apartment, and now blogging. I'll close with the exchange of the night.
Hip server at the restaurant who was wearing a retro t-shirt: Isn't it June? What's with the weather?
Barnes: It's balmy.
Hip server : Yes, balmy.
Me: Balmy, hardly even know me!
Everyone, especially Waiter and Ford: HAHAHAHAHAH
OK, I will probably go to sleep once Ford relocates his sleepy self from the couch to his bed. Tomorrow I'll stick around Chez Barnes/Ford and write.
EDIT: More info about my show: Gotham Comedy club, Sunday June 28th. 6 pm. There is a $12 cover and a 2 drink minimum (sorry). It was suggested that I make a reservation, so let me know if you're interested and I'll make a general reservation for my party, and then you can just say you're under my name.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
So It Begins...
I just finished packing. I feel like I'm taking a bit too much for 2.5 months. The final count was one big suitcase, one small suitcase, 2 garbage bags of linens, and 3 bags/boxes of miscellany. Plus my keyboard for teaching myself piano. Plus a grill for communal purposes I picked up from Sam's house. So it should all fit in the van no problem.
Tomorrow I go to New York for orientation, then staying with Barnes/Ford (Week 12: Eagles vs. Cowboys?!?!), my first class Tuesday, and then to DC by way of Havertown on Wednesday. I'll discuss each of these events as they occur, as daily blog posts will hopefully be starting tomorrow (well, today I guess).
In other news, I listened to a lot of comedians in the car this weekend. It confirmed what I already knew, which is that Ellen Degeneres is hilarious, flagrant racism is not, and Steve Martin was more ridiculous than funny. I also spent a lot of time with family, which will hopefully fuel some of my material. They asked that names be changed, but no one in DC will know who they are anyway (unless they all come, as they say they will).
So tomorrow it really begins. Should be fun. And hilarious.
Tomorrow I go to New York for orientation, then staying with Barnes/Ford (Week 12: Eagles vs. Cowboys?!?!), my first class Tuesday, and then to DC by way of Havertown on Wednesday. I'll discuss each of these events as they occur, as daily blog posts will hopefully be starting tomorrow (well, today I guess).
In other news, I listened to a lot of comedians in the car this weekend. It confirmed what I already knew, which is that Ellen Degeneres is hilarious, flagrant racism is not, and Steve Martin was more ridiculous than funny. I also spent a lot of time with family, which will hopefully fuel some of my material. They asked that names be changed, but no one in DC will know who they are anyway (unless they all come, as they say they will).
So tomorrow it really begins. Should be fun. And hilarious.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
It's Great to Post Here!
and here!....and here!
That was one of Steve Martin's jokes, except he would stand in different spots on stage.
I just finished Martin's book Born Standing Up. It was a pretty good read, but seemed to indicate I would need to suffer 10 years of floundering before I succeed. He had a policy of never finishing a joke. He would just build the anticipation and then move on, causing the laugh after the joke was supposed to have ended. Very strange, and probably hard to implement. He also did a lot of sight gags, magic and singing, and just strange things. And he was the most popular comedian for a few years. So different from the screaming and yelling that is Dane Cook.
That was one of Steve Martin's jokes, except he would stand in different spots on stage.
I just finished Martin's book Born Standing Up. It was a pretty good read, but seemed to indicate I would need to suffer 10 years of floundering before I succeed. He had a policy of never finishing a joke. He would just build the anticipation and then move on, causing the laugh after the joke was supposed to have ended. Very strange, and probably hard to implement. He also did a lot of sight gags, magic and singing, and just strange things. And he was the most popular comedian for a few years. So different from the screaming and yelling that is Dane Cook.
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