British Comedy Guide

When Meeting New People

I didn't know how to title this thread, but the question is for new and experienced comics alike.

One of the age old responses to "I'm a Comedian" is "Tell me a joke", or some variation of that. As an aspiring comic I've noticed something else. If I tell someone that I am trying to get into comedy, even as a matter of polite conversation, they assume that every other thing I say thereafter is an attempt to make them laugh.

If these scenarios have ever occurred in your life, how do you deal with them? Do you try to avoid the subject altogether?

I tell them a joke.

Just be grateful you're not a colo-rectal surgeon.

I tell them one of Marc's jokes

Now that is good advice!
:)

:D

I'm not a comedian. If there's any doubt about the matter, I give them my special long version of the Emperor's Donkey joke to prove it.

I'm naturally spontaneously witty and engaging, so there's no problem.

My advice when meeting new people especially agents/directors/producers. NEVER, EVER go to shake their hand. Always wait for them to make the first move. There are some serious germophobic's out there and they all seem to reside in the comedy, TV and film industries.

Just saying..

I just avoid the subject altogether when it comes to my writing. If I was a pro then I'd probably have something interesting to say. Otherwise it's not a very interesting story. I submit stuff, it gets nowhere. Again and again.

I say I'm a professional zoo animal masturbator

to date no ones said give us a wank.

Quote: Ben @ 26th January 2014, 12:45 PM GMT

I submit stuff, it gets nowhere. Again and again.

Where do you submit to Ben? I've seen a few of your sketches and you have a very nice writing style.

Finding the right place to submit to is half the battle.

As written above the French miliary college gates.

Yep, very true oh wise Sootyj.

Quote: Shandonbelle @ 26th January 2014, 1:26 PM GMT

Where do you submit to Ben? I've seen a few of your sketches and you have a very nice writing style.

To be honest, Shandy, I've more or less given up on writing comedy. I submitted some bits to 2525, but I don't dedicate much time to comedy these days. I beavered away for several years with the belief I'd get somewhere, but the day came when I had to accept it wasn't going to happen.

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