MAKE US LAUGH | Janis V . Bers
Jay Wendell Walker
Ken McComb
So what ’ s the secret to presenting quality , appealing comedy ? What makes it funny and what doesn ’ t , and what are the “ no-no ’ s ” and the taboos ? Both Nick and Don firmly agree to be fairly serious about the mechanics of this branch of entertainment . They concur that humility ; honesty ; an ability to open yourself up , warts and all , and be able to connect with your audience on a one-to-one personal level so that they come away from your act feeling that you ’ ve become their best friend , are some of the key staples to gaining success . Don ’ t be afraid to poke fun at yourself , and if you ’ re going to take a shot at your audience , do it with well-intentioned humor and never deliver with a mean spirit . Be topical whenever possible , and try to create something amusing about situations happening in and around your location . People love to “ rag on ” events taking place near them , and identify with you being aware of them and making light of often unfortunate or ridiculous situations . Originality and a novel approach will always win you over , and if you have a knack of spotting something that can be shaped into a gag or short sketch then you ’ re already well on your way . Also , develop originality in your presentation and style . Trying to copy another comic ’ s techniques will be easily spotted , and you ’ ll soon get a reputation of being a lame also-ran . Always be aware that you will get heckled , so be mindful of this and be
Michael Glatzmeier
January | February 2017 51