Being someone else on stage

When I'm on stage I always try to be myself. Although that definition is constantly evolving, I speak in a manner I normally do, follow thought trails I've had, and tell jokes that I think are funny. It feels natural, but being yourself can be a bit of a double edged sword. On nights you crush it's very validating and good for the soul. The nights that don't go so well, well they feel bad mkay? You're essentially being rejected by a group of strangers (in front of yours peers). Remember that embarrassing thing you did way back when? Now imagine you just told that story to a group of 40 and they didn't react the way you wanted them to. The average person would need to binge some Brené Brown tedtalks, but as a comedian you have to shake it off because there's the next show to think about.

Some comics choose to circumnavigate this feeling by performing as a character. Instead of relying on jokes for laughs, their act is the joke. Their sets are filled with weird outfits, catch phrases, anti-jokes, uncomfortable moments, and not usually funny. (Oh and by the way - STOP SAYING THE ERIC AND ANDRE SHOW IS COMEDIC GENUIS, if you think that then we're not friends..but I digress.) I do see the appeal though, it gives you permission to try something that's a bit weird, and the rejection no longer feels personal because it isn't. There's less risk involved. You aren't being you.

A couple weeks ago I did the closest thing to character comedy. As part of a tribute show I impersonated Anthony Jeselnik (most comedian's wet dream, so be jealous..) Anthony has made a career out of telling offensive jokes with a twist. What separates him from the pack is his uncharacteristically high ego, confidence, and the ability to write AND deliver damn good jokes... As I imagined performing as someone else lowered the stakes, I cared a lot less, and at times I even felt like I was Anthony. It wasn't perfect by any means (I should've practiced more) but overall it was a really fun night.

I did a quick comparison of some qualities during a typical night performing as myself vs. one night as Anthony. And a clip! (Sorry not sorry for the bad audio, it was LOUD in the room so you should have been there!)

I'm glad I tried this. Stepping into Anthony's shoes gave me some insight into my own style and how I'd like to grow. Here's to higher confidence levels, caring a bit less, and writing better jokes!

Namaste,

​Allan