Growing up, there was nothing like sneaking downstairs to watch Saturday Night Live with my father while my mother was sleeping. It was our bonding time. Not only were we sharing a pizza and a fountain Dr. Pepper from the nearby gas station, but we were also sharing laughter. The laughter that we still share with each other to this day. Little did he know that when he exposed me to the world of comedy, my fascination would only grow with me as the years passed by. Little did he know that I'd be pursuing a career in the entertainment industry because of him.
For the past few years, I have tried everything in my power to go to comedy shows and place myself in the industry in whatever way I could.
Within the past year, I have started going to stand-up comedy shows in comedy clubs and theatre halls. Many people don't know that there is actually a very, very popular comedy club right in Lexington, KY called Comedy Off Broadway. For over 25 years, there have been so many iconic comedians walk on that stage. However, not only do comedy clubs book extremely popular comedians, but they also book those who are up and coming in the industry. Most comedy clubs have at least 2-3 acts each weekend, often ranging from Thursdays to Saturdays. They also offer open mics every other weekend for those who have zero experience in stand-up. Overall, it is just an incredibly fun experience.
Something that I noticed after going to various shows at clubs is that the population of young adults in attendance is extremely, extremely low. And that is a huge problem.
In the digital world that we live in, people can type in whatever comic they know and are given hundreds of results of their acts. Which is absolutely fantastic – but it also hurts the comedy industry tremendously. But, not only does it hurt the industry, it takes away the indescribable experience that one could have in real life instead of through a screen. Technology is slowly killing the comedy scene. It does not provide the same effect as going inside a club or theatre and experiencing it in real life, and it is such an incredible experience that all people need to have. Watching comedy (and most things) are so much better right in front of you.
I highly recommend everyone to get off their couch and their devices and go support the arts and the world of comedy. Even if a comedy club has comedians that you have never heard of, go inside. Spend the little bit of money that it costs, and only then can you discover people who you fall in love with. Especially if they are more of an unknown comedian. Remember, every comedian started out performing in small clubs, you never know who you could see perform.
It is such a fun thing to do with friends and even by yourself.
You get to be a part of the culture. And, better yet, you get to laugh, like… a lot. It doesn't get much better than that!
It is a very incredible and respected business that young people need to delve into more instead of aimlessly scrolling through social media on the weekends. Go out, enjoy comedy, and enjoy life!
