James Harris
Thursday 30th April 2009 1:52pm
Middlesbrough
233 posts
I started doing stand-up a couple of years ago. It's fun, and never less than interesting. I'm still at the "open spot" stage, but sometimes it goes really well. And sometimes it doesn't. Working out why this is the case is part of the allure.
When it goes well, the buzz is amazing. It's the purest form of comedy performance, I think, a direct connection between you and the audience.
When it doesn't work it can feel pretty horrible. The audience doesn't like you, doesn't like the things you are saying and they would like you to stop, now, please. The rejection can feel very personal, mainly because it is.
Didn't go on a course, but I did attend a half-hour "masterclass" with a hungover Jason Cook who taught me a few basic tips on construcing a first 5 minute set. It kinda de-mystified the process, and also led to my first gig, in front of 200-odd people two weeks later. The audience tolerated me and I loved it!
I'd always admired stand-up but assumed I couldn't do it. Still not sure I can, but the finding out has been fun.
I'm doing a 10-spot at the Iguana Bar in Chorlton, Manchester on Bank Holiday Monday, if anyone is about...