Tell someone you’re a comedian and they’ll undoubtedly reply, “Wow. I could never do that!” Then they might say, “Tell me a joke,” to which I usually respond, “Comics tell jokes. I’m a comedian, not a comic.”
Comedians see humor, characters, and irony everywhere, and bring reality and vulnerability to the stage. They relate everyday situations and, like actors, comedians are full of emotion that draws you in. Which means that there are a few things actors can learn from the similarities—and differences—between themselves and comedians.
1. Comedians have more performing options.Unlike actors, comedians are not focused on auditioning and being cast in something that requires the agreements of dozens of people (or even an entire network). There are stages and open mics all over town. At a live venue, only a few need to agree. Then, it’s stage time and anything goes: exploring opinions, feelings, traumas, stories. No need for makeup, wardrobe, scene partners, or a cast.
The ability to do stand-up can help an actor to know themselves better and become stronger at other forms of entertaining (e.g. talks shows, corporate presentations, hosting, etc.). When
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