We are in the midst of Edinburgh Fringe and coming up on Melbourne Fringe Festival. These have traditionally been exceptional places for people to experiment and develop their arts. Recently, I’ve been hearing quite a few rumblings about the state of Edinburgh Fringe. I have not yet been, so I can’t say one way or […]
Based on the human rights code Canadian comedian Guy Earle was fined £9,300 for “unleashing a torrent of homophobic abuse against a female heckler and has lost his bid to have the decision overturned on free speech grounds.” Take note of this because it sets a legal precedent that could be used elsewhere. Comics fine […]
“I received an email from two gentlemen teaching a stand-up comedy class to high school students. They asked me for some advice to share with their aspiring young comics. I asked if it was too late to urge them to choose a different career? Something safer like a fireman, easier like a brain surgeon or […]
Stephen Fry teaching Hugh Laurie how to do standup comedy. Remember how important that tongue work is! Peace and kindness, Katherine
Tough audience! Peace and kindness, Katherine
STAND-UP comics tell jokes about race, sex, abortion, rape and pedophilia. But ask some of those same outspoken performers to reveal publicly how they make their living, and they suddenly become discreet. Money may be the last taboo. From “Clever, How They Earn That Laugh”, The New York Times —By Jason Zinoman and Megan Angelo
Embrace your true talent… Peace and kindness, Katherine
“I am ashamed to say that I feel my industry, comedy, which is ostensibly about self-expression, pricking pomposity and holding a mirror up to society is, on this issue, less ethical than investment banking…I feel that large parts of the comedy establishment create a hostile working environment for women, by holding views and practices that […]
One of my favourite routines as a child.
Ultimately the way to change societal attitudes on any issue is a long term process, however the current enthusiasm for live comedy may provide comedians from all backgrounds with the opportunity to have a positive impact on an audience’s understandings and misconceptions about major social issues which have previously been ‘taboo’ or controversial. From “The […]
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