Congratulations to us all for making it through another year. No matter where you are in comedy it is always a challenge and that deserves some kind of acknowledgement. No matter where you are .... From the comedy virgin who finally got the courage to do that first open mic to the vet running all over the city to do a unpaid spot at 1 am just for the love of it.
We all give up so much to chase down that laugh waiting just around the corner in the next joke we may perform. Some of us are chasing fame but most of us are just chasing the chance to make people laugh and laugh so hard that they might even remember us and want to see us again.
The highlight of this past year for me was knowing that I made people laugh and I did it more often and better than I did the year before. I met a lot of great funny interesting people and unlike raising my family I didn't feel isolated and alone most of the time. Sure I melted down a few times and questioned why anyone in their right mind would pursue this.....and then Id come up with something in my head and need to get on a stage and share it and spin it and see if it could fly....and be funny to anyone besides myself.
I am so grateful to all the wonderful people I have met doing this..... I spent a long time dealing with people who bored me and didn't get me being a home based mom for all those years. I love my family a am so grateful that I could be home with them to love and take care of them....and it came at a price. I have wanted to be a comedian since I was a freshman in college and I tucked that dream away for so long....... and I did have fun being the funniest mom in the cul de sac and cracking them up on supermarket lines. When I started this comedy thing my one wish was to be able to say I am "a Comedian and have it be true". This year more than ever I feel that I have reached this goal. Its all up hill from here and If I'm lucky I will meet more amazing people than get more laughs than the year before.
Happy New Year !
Comments are below
Hmmmm...
Posted on 12/31/2005 at 06:21 PM by Harris Bloom
Do you really believe that some are chasing fame but most are chasing the chance to make people laugh and wanna see them/us again?
I'm not so sure.
I will say that in the few months that I've been doing this, my goal has already changed...fact is, comics just dont make coin...unless you're willing to be a road comic, living the life of a nomad for a few years, it's tough to make it as a full-time comic.
Between that and hearing what comics make per set (I think you can still qualify for food stamps), I still wanna be a comic, getting paid by NY clubs, but I don't think it'll ever be my only gig.
So I'm not sure where I fit in...actually...thinking about it...wanting people to come see you again is a type of fame...just on a lower scale.
My point? None..as usual.
Happy New Year.
Happy New Year
Posted on 12/31/2005 at 09:36 PM by
I am happy you are realizing your dream, Robin! I was delighted to see you are back at the NYCC...just bring liner for that seat! lol I am sure I will see you there because I am back in comedy. I am doing open mic at the Comic Strip. I wrote a whole new set... It is easy to get stuck at one level and stay there forever. It is true that you have to be ready to take it to "the road." I am not; so here I stay: locked into Manhattan comedy clubs and loving it! For me, "making it" is a booked spot that is not a "bringer!"
what am I chasing??
Posted on 01/03/2006 at 12:49 PM by Andy Kaufman
I am chasing a ghost!
Saturday, December 31, 2005
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Party of one.
Not wanting to be one of those comics who bitch and moan....BUT. I have missed every holiday party this year except one. I was sick and then as soon as I feel better POW this dam strike and I missed another one. Im angry because I really enjoy spending down time with other comics. I usually have a lot of fun at these things and it just stinks that I missed all but one of them. Last year the same thing happened. So there is my hissy fit. I feel that the end of the year parties are a celebration for the Holidays and also for making it through another year..in comedy and that's a bid deal to me.
Comments are below
At least you were invited to a few....
Posted on 12/21/2005 at 02:59 PM by Harris Bloom
ack!
Join the Club
Posted on 12/21/2005 at 10:52 PM by April Brucker
I was taking finals and went home for holiday break. So I missed all the holiday parties. But luckily I am escaping the strike. Peace and happy holidays, April
Comments are below
At least you were invited to a few....
Posted on 12/21/2005 at 02:59 PM by Harris Bloom
ack!
Join the Club
Posted on 12/21/2005 at 10:52 PM by April Brucker
I was taking finals and went home for holiday break. So I missed all the holiday parties. But luckily I am escaping the strike. Peace and happy holidays, April
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Tuesday with Laurie
I am so excited tonight I am hosting at NYCC and my role model and idol Laurie Kilmartin is performing. I can die now. I feel like I am really a comedian. Wow. When I started this thing I used to troll the web looking to learn anything I could from anyone. I found Laurie had a web site with a weekly blog she had kept for over 5 years. Like a nut that I am I read the entire thing over the course of that first summer in comedy. I learned so much from her. Firstly I love her as a comedian. I dont see her as a woman comic I see her as just a top notch comic....everything I would hope to be.
The second thing I loved about her is that she always seem grounded to the truth. She told the truth about the realities of this business she was truthful about all aspects of navigating he life in comedy. She gave me the closest sense of a road map when I was getting started.
I love her humor it is real and smart and has a sarcasum I adore.Laurie traveled and did the road for over a decade...then she came to NYC and had to start right where all of us do, she hit the open mic's. In her blog she talks about going from doing 40 minute sets to doing 5 minutes at a Village open mic. She was so talented that in two years time she had worked her way into the top clubs in NYC. Her first club to give her a break was the NYCC. I met Miss Kilmartin in front of the Improv 3 months ago and she was warm and approachable. It is a dream come true that I will be hosting a show she will be on. I have a respiratory infection and am feeling like shit but I don't have time to be sick. This is just so great.
I have small goals in comedy and this is a goal I didn't even know I had. My favorit quote is Her's " ALL we have control of is to try to get funnier" It is my mantra.
Comments are below
Nice!
Posted on 12/14/2005 at 07:03 AM by Greg Manuel
By any chance did she do the joke about how she could never marry Charlie Sheen? I saw her at an open mic some two or three years ago, and I always liked that one...wordplay just gets me, you know?
Posted on 12/14/2005 at 10:50 AM by Raquel D'Apice
Congrats! Hope it went well!
Congrats
Posted on 12/14/2005 at 06:16 PM by April Brucker
She is one funny lady (you are too). I saw her act a while ago I believe when I first came to nyc. I nearly wet my pants
Im Sick
Posted on 12/14/2005 at 08:10 PM by Robin Fox
I guess its been to much excitement and late nights for this old lady. Last night was really a tough night. We had a million comics to put up. Lorrie was gonna perform at half past nine but came back around ten fourty five. She remembered me from infront of the Improv where I met her a few months ago. I intorduced her and as I did half the room walked. Oh my.She asked the room to give ME a hand for hosting which was really nice. Only one other comic did that last night. She did too long a set and it was my fault. No one told me how long she was to do. I figured 8 minutes. I felt awful. She was wonderful but she struggled the room was really tough. The show went on till the we we hours.
There were a few standouts last night. Chriss Souflee went on right after Larie and killed it was a spectacular set. A black woman named Georgette was also very strong. Alex Rubar was a total nut as the "Angry Lumber Jack" Kiesha Zoalar ,and Katie McKenna all were real stand out stand ups last night. I got home at 3 am and I am so sick with a respritory infection and cold.
Really?
Posted on 12/14/2005 at 08:48 PM by Harris Bloom
SHE can't even do eight minutes?
And to think,I get pissed when I can only do five.
Feel better.
I was there
Posted on 12/15/2005 at 11:33 AM by Jeanne Noll
and Robin did a great job and I was watching when Laurie got up - she did great considering the fact that so many people got up right as she was getting on the stage. And - yes it was a long long night!
Still sick
Posted on 12/15/2005 at 04:42 PM by Robin Fox
Thanks Jeany (NOLLL) As I wrote you even though you performed for 8 people you could see that the writing is there. You were really kind to stay till we locked the doors. Also I have to mention Grace Clayton she was a 3rd time on stager and she was very good.
I so wanted to go out to the Lantern tonight but Im sick still
The second thing I loved about her is that she always seem grounded to the truth. She told the truth about the realities of this business she was truthful about all aspects of navigating he life in comedy. She gave me the closest sense of a road map when I was getting started.
I love her humor it is real and smart and has a sarcasum I adore.Laurie traveled and did the road for over a decade...then she came to NYC and had to start right where all of us do, she hit the open mic's. In her blog she talks about going from doing 40 minute sets to doing 5 minutes at a Village open mic. She was so talented that in two years time she had worked her way into the top clubs in NYC. Her first club to give her a break was the NYCC. I met Miss Kilmartin in front of the Improv 3 months ago and she was warm and approachable. It is a dream come true that I will be hosting a show she will be on. I have a respiratory infection and am feeling like shit but I don't have time to be sick. This is just so great.
I have small goals in comedy and this is a goal I didn't even know I had. My favorit quote is Her's " ALL we have control of is to try to get funnier" It is my mantra.
Comments are below
Nice!
Posted on 12/14/2005 at 07:03 AM by Greg Manuel
By any chance did she do the joke about how she could never marry Charlie Sheen? I saw her at an open mic some two or three years ago, and I always liked that one...wordplay just gets me, you know?
Posted on 12/14/2005 at 10:50 AM by Raquel D'Apice
Congrats! Hope it went well!
Congrats
Posted on 12/14/2005 at 06:16 PM by April Brucker
She is one funny lady (you are too). I saw her act a while ago I believe when I first came to nyc. I nearly wet my pants
Im Sick
Posted on 12/14/2005 at 08:10 PM by Robin Fox
I guess its been to much excitement and late nights for this old lady. Last night was really a tough night. We had a million comics to put up. Lorrie was gonna perform at half past nine but came back around ten fourty five. She remembered me from infront of the Improv where I met her a few months ago. I intorduced her and as I did half the room walked. Oh my.She asked the room to give ME a hand for hosting which was really nice. Only one other comic did that last night. She did too long a set and it was my fault. No one told me how long she was to do. I figured 8 minutes. I felt awful. She was wonderful but she struggled the room was really tough. The show went on till the we we hours.
There were a few standouts last night. Chriss Souflee went on right after Larie and killed it was a spectacular set. A black woman named Georgette was also very strong. Alex Rubar was a total nut as the "Angry Lumber Jack" Kiesha Zoalar ,and Katie McKenna all were real stand out stand ups last night. I got home at 3 am and I am so sick with a respritory infection and cold.
Really?
Posted on 12/14/2005 at 08:48 PM by Harris Bloom
SHE can't even do eight minutes?
And to think,I get pissed when I can only do five.
Feel better.
I was there
Posted on 12/15/2005 at 11:33 AM by Jeanne Noll
and Robin did a great job and I was watching when Laurie got up - she did great considering the fact that so many people got up right as she was getting on the stage. And - yes it was a long long night!
Still sick
Posted on 12/15/2005 at 04:42 PM by Robin Fox
Thanks Jeany (NOLLL) As I wrote you even though you performed for 8 people you could see that the writing is there. You were really kind to stay till we locked the doors. Also I have to mention Grace Clayton she was a 3rd time on stager and she was very good.
I so wanted to go out to the Lantern tonight but Im sick still
Monday, December 12, 2005
Come back an wow me in another six months
That is what Starla told me to do after my last audition. She was really positive until she found out it was my first audition and said that if that's the case comeback in 6 months and wow me again. Tonight I will audition again. I am not feeling sharp. I feel tiered all day and depressed. I don't know if I should do other material or the same stuff I did last time but with my better timing and new tags. I will go with the latter. I had a great audition at NYCC for industry and did well. I did the best at this point in time that I am capable of doing. One agent passed on me and the other liked me and wants to see more in 6 months.
That all said.... I feel like someone let all the air out of my head. I had an argument with Mr Fox yesterday and my life is at an all time stress high. I am a pro. I have a 6 minute set for a 5 min audition. I need to see the room before I figure out what to cut. Go know. I am writing this to remind myself that this is all I work for. I sometimes wonder why I am so full of angst and second guessing myself so much. I am really a good comedian. If it was baseball and they kept stats... Mine are good. It just is I am an approval junkie and this entire process takes a lot out of me. I just want to get booked more on better shows. It is not the fame it is the undying need to perform in good rooms and to make people laugh...which I can do.
I love doing Adams room. Every time I go there I really do kill. The high from that lasts for days. I love doing Don't tell Mamas for the same reasons. I know this is what I should be doing with my life. I have known I'm a comic all my life. I feel like shit ...But I'm going and I am gonna Wow that woman if it kills me.
Comments are below
so how good did you do?
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 12:16 AM by Josh Homer
As an artist
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 12:37 AM by H. P.
The artist is always critical of the art they paint. never realizing the art in itself is inspiring and the ARTIST IS the masterpiece. So I hoped you riped them all a new one.
Remember the Pearl Necklace.
Peace
no soap radio
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 02:30 AM by Robin Fox
I am sad to report that I did not wow her tonight. I miss read the room. I was the first up after the passed pros. Vinnie Brand was up before me and had an excellent set the room loved. I should have taken notice of the age of the room. I had planned my strong KY opener and it was wrong for the room. It was filled with people even older than myself and I am older than dirt. The first joke that more than usually kills hit soft. I pertended that it was fine. I moved into my second joke and it landed a bit stronger but still softer than expected. Then I hit into my stride and things went well. I did this very same set last week at an industry showcase at NYCC and it killed. It is a 5 minute set that took at NYCC 6 minutes so I was fearfull and cut out a few jokes and timed it for 4 mins 30 seconds leaving room for my imagined applause breaks and laughter. I was done at 4min 30 seconds and ended short. I was underwhelmed. Not to make excuses...but I was having an off day the entire day at home. I quit smoking and was irritable more than normal. Im off them 3 weeks one day.
I also like an ass asked Vinne to stay and watch my set so it was a double audition....more pressure. Lastly the Comical Mag. was there to photograph me for an upcoming feature story....what am I high?? I only wish it would have at least been enjoyable.
Starla came out to talk to me. She didnt remember me at all. I refreshed her with a comment she gave me about a joke that I had changed. She said first off I ran short...not good. Then she said I had really good punch lines but my set ups were too long. This is the same set that last time she complimented me in the set up punch ratio. So I dont know what to do with that. She didnt think my opener was strong enough and I told her it was wrong for the room tonight and she agreed. She also told me I should have been in the balcony watching the sets before me to get a sence if things needed changing. I told her Im new and I dont know how to zig and zag under pressure yet and that I could have saved it with replacing the joke with another and then told it to her ...making her laugh.
She told me I am going to get this right eventually and she looks forward to seeing me in 6 months. I know this I have no choice but to continue to work my butt off and just ghet funnier. I find this comedy thing is getting harder and harder yet I really feel like I am developing comedy some stronger comedy abs. So my 6 pack is 6 months away. She lead me to believe that she is sure that I will nail this and its a matter of time and timing.
Lastly the comedy planets werent in line tonight...I wasnt in the zone but I know I will get there somehow.
Tonight Tuesday I am hosting at NYCC. This was just a dream a year ago. I am thrilled because my idol...Laurie Kilmartin is on the bill. She is my inspiration...and the woman who taught me my mantra, All we have control of is to try to get funnier. Im trying and then some.
I left the audition tonight and went to the Holiday party at NYCC. I had such a great time and I have to say it was wonderful to be with so many friends and people I just enjoy so much. I also feel that I have gained the respect of people who I never dreamed I could ever deserve to share a stage with just a few years ago. So I guess it is a good ending to this year. I am just finishing my 3rd year and I am futher than I thought Id be and have so much more to learn and grow. I dont want a sitcom....I dont want to be Ellen. I just want to be a working comic who is booked on shows and gets the chance to perform in shows with other good comics and hold my own. I am too hard on myself most of the time....but despite the outcome tonight I am truly proud of the work I am doing and Im a glutton for punishment...this wont stop me. Im stubborn, Im married 23 years I can handle ups and downs with the best of them.
Oh well...as they say...
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 07:24 AM by Harris Bloom
Whatever doesn't kill ya postpones the inevitable.
Better luck next time (and I love Kilmartin too - she did a set at a show I was on last night).
Congrats on Quitting Smoking....
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 09:51 AM by Al Wagner
Soon, very soon, you will stop thinking about it...You are certainly tough, talented and determined, so I know you can beat the habit and the audition process eventually.
And if I ever get an audition at the Comic Strip, of course I won't pass but I am going to say it is my fiftieth audition so she tells me to pack it in...no hope for me. ;)
You can do it!
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 10:33 AM by Jeanne Noll
Hi Robin. I quit smoking about 13 years ago. Haven't had one since. If I could do it - you definitely can. When I used to crave a cigarette I'd go outside and take a giant breath of fresh air into my lungs - it did help. Also, each time you would normally buy a pack, put the money in a jar - at the price they are today - you'll have enough for a small vacation before ya know it. And sorry about your audition last night. If this helps - I know people who've been doing it much longer than 3 years and aren't auditioning yet - so you have come far.
Noll
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 04:13 PM by Kelly Shannon
yeah, she quit smoking but now she's drinking (see previous blog) :)
I'm sorry Robin.
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 07:14 PM by Dave O'Gara
I'm really shocked and surprised. You are really talented, hell you know that. I'm sure you'll get it next time. Shit happens kid, you will make it happen. Stay strong.
coming from you Dave
Posted on 12/14/2005 at 02:16 AM by Robin Fox
Thats a rave. You know how wonderful I and talented I think you are. Im really not to upset Starla was very positive and feels strongly that I will pass eventualy. I forgot to mention when I walked into the Club The woman who beat me at the Ladies of Laughter was there. I got jolted by it. She is another mom comic and I paniced that Id have to follow her and it would be bad. She in the end went on after me. I know that if I dont give up and god I dont know why I am so determined in the face of all thats up against me I will make it. Its a living thing this comedy thing and I just have to hope that next time I will be on my A game.
That all said.... I feel like someone let all the air out of my head. I had an argument with Mr Fox yesterday and my life is at an all time stress high. I am a pro. I have a 6 minute set for a 5 min audition. I need to see the room before I figure out what to cut. Go know. I am writing this to remind myself that this is all I work for. I sometimes wonder why I am so full of angst and second guessing myself so much. I am really a good comedian. If it was baseball and they kept stats... Mine are good. It just is I am an approval junkie and this entire process takes a lot out of me. I just want to get booked more on better shows. It is not the fame it is the undying need to perform in good rooms and to make people laugh...which I can do.
I love doing Adams room. Every time I go there I really do kill. The high from that lasts for days. I love doing Don't tell Mamas for the same reasons. I know this is what I should be doing with my life. I have known I'm a comic all my life. I feel like shit ...But I'm going and I am gonna Wow that woman if it kills me.
Comments are below
so how good did you do?
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 12:16 AM by Josh Homer
As an artist
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 12:37 AM by H. P.
The artist is always critical of the art they paint. never realizing the art in itself is inspiring and the ARTIST IS the masterpiece. So I hoped you riped them all a new one.
Remember the Pearl Necklace.
Peace
no soap radio
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 02:30 AM by Robin Fox
I am sad to report that I did not wow her tonight. I miss read the room. I was the first up after the passed pros. Vinnie Brand was up before me and had an excellent set the room loved. I should have taken notice of the age of the room. I had planned my strong KY opener and it was wrong for the room. It was filled with people even older than myself and I am older than dirt. The first joke that more than usually kills hit soft. I pertended that it was fine. I moved into my second joke and it landed a bit stronger but still softer than expected. Then I hit into my stride and things went well. I did this very same set last week at an industry showcase at NYCC and it killed. It is a 5 minute set that took at NYCC 6 minutes so I was fearfull and cut out a few jokes and timed it for 4 mins 30 seconds leaving room for my imagined applause breaks and laughter. I was done at 4min 30 seconds and ended short. I was underwhelmed. Not to make excuses...but I was having an off day the entire day at home. I quit smoking and was irritable more than normal. Im off them 3 weeks one day.
I also like an ass asked Vinne to stay and watch my set so it was a double audition....more pressure. Lastly the Comical Mag. was there to photograph me for an upcoming feature story....what am I high?? I only wish it would have at least been enjoyable.
Starla came out to talk to me. She didnt remember me at all. I refreshed her with a comment she gave me about a joke that I had changed. She said first off I ran short...not good. Then she said I had really good punch lines but my set ups were too long. This is the same set that last time she complimented me in the set up punch ratio. So I dont know what to do with that. She didnt think my opener was strong enough and I told her it was wrong for the room tonight and she agreed. She also told me I should have been in the balcony watching the sets before me to get a sence if things needed changing. I told her Im new and I dont know how to zig and zag under pressure yet and that I could have saved it with replacing the joke with another and then told it to her ...making her laugh.
She told me I am going to get this right eventually and she looks forward to seeing me in 6 months. I know this I have no choice but to continue to work my butt off and just ghet funnier. I find this comedy thing is getting harder and harder yet I really feel like I am developing comedy some stronger comedy abs. So my 6 pack is 6 months away. She lead me to believe that she is sure that I will nail this and its a matter of time and timing.
Lastly the comedy planets werent in line tonight...I wasnt in the zone but I know I will get there somehow.
Tonight Tuesday I am hosting at NYCC. This was just a dream a year ago. I am thrilled because my idol...Laurie Kilmartin is on the bill. She is my inspiration...and the woman who taught me my mantra, All we have control of is to try to get funnier. Im trying and then some.
I left the audition tonight and went to the Holiday party at NYCC. I had such a great time and I have to say it was wonderful to be with so many friends and people I just enjoy so much. I also feel that I have gained the respect of people who I never dreamed I could ever deserve to share a stage with just a few years ago. So I guess it is a good ending to this year. I am just finishing my 3rd year and I am futher than I thought Id be and have so much more to learn and grow. I dont want a sitcom....I dont want to be Ellen. I just want to be a working comic who is booked on shows and gets the chance to perform in shows with other good comics and hold my own. I am too hard on myself most of the time....but despite the outcome tonight I am truly proud of the work I am doing and Im a glutton for punishment...this wont stop me. Im stubborn, Im married 23 years I can handle ups and downs with the best of them.
Oh well...as they say...
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 07:24 AM by Harris Bloom
Whatever doesn't kill ya postpones the inevitable.
Better luck next time (and I love Kilmartin too - she did a set at a show I was on last night).
Congrats on Quitting Smoking....
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 09:51 AM by Al Wagner
Soon, very soon, you will stop thinking about it...You are certainly tough, talented and determined, so I know you can beat the habit and the audition process eventually.
And if I ever get an audition at the Comic Strip, of course I won't pass but I am going to say it is my fiftieth audition so she tells me to pack it in...no hope for me. ;)
You can do it!
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 10:33 AM by Jeanne Noll
Hi Robin. I quit smoking about 13 years ago. Haven't had one since. If I could do it - you definitely can. When I used to crave a cigarette I'd go outside and take a giant breath of fresh air into my lungs - it did help. Also, each time you would normally buy a pack, put the money in a jar - at the price they are today - you'll have enough for a small vacation before ya know it. And sorry about your audition last night. If this helps - I know people who've been doing it much longer than 3 years and aren't auditioning yet - so you have come far.
Noll
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 04:13 PM by Kelly Shannon
yeah, she quit smoking but now she's drinking (see previous blog) :)
I'm sorry Robin.
Posted on 12/13/2005 at 07:14 PM by Dave O'Gara
I'm really shocked and surprised. You are really talented, hell you know that. I'm sure you'll get it next time. Shit happens kid, you will make it happen. Stay strong.
coming from you Dave
Posted on 12/14/2005 at 02:16 AM by Robin Fox
Thats a rave. You know how wonderful I and talented I think you are. Im really not to upset Starla was very positive and feels strongly that I will pass eventualy. I forgot to mention when I walked into the Club The woman who beat me at the Ladies of Laughter was there. I got jolted by it. She is another mom comic and I paniced that Id have to follow her and it would be bad. She in the end went on after me. I know that if I dont give up and god I dont know why I am so determined in the face of all thats up against me I will make it. Its a living thing this comedy thing and I just have to hope that next time I will be on my A game.
Friday, December 9, 2005
Shut the fuck up.
Wed. night I did an Industry Showcase at NYCC, Buddy Flip had produced. It was my night to shine and I had a really strong set. I was in the zone, the audience was in the zone the planets were all in line and best of all It was in front of industry and being taped.
I was nervous because I hadn't performed in over 2 weeks the longest I have taken a break since beginning. After the show I headed downtown to Sal's and he offered to put me up....love him... I followed Rick Shapiro who is god to me and did very well....thank-you planets.
The next night I had 2 spots at the NYCC one in the big room at 9:30 and the second at 11:30. The room was late to fill up and they were a loud group of folks. As the show began it was a bringer I had a booked spot on.... Mary Domino who is cute and hysterical took to the stage to MC. Cell phones were ringing every few minutes people were still being seated. There was a group of people in the front of the room closest to the door....who wouldn't shut up. I was standing by the booth and people all around them were getting annoyed that they were talking. The mic the night before was really hot...you had to hold it away...this night it was running very soft. With talkers it helps somewhat for me if the mic is loud because I can focus on my own voice.
I am pumped up from the night before. I dressed up both nights and felt very confident. Mary introduced me and I took to the stage. As I am walking to the stage the guy in the front says to his group ( I was told this later by a comic sitting near them and heard some of it myself) Great another woman comic I hate them. I hit the stage and I'm off to a strong start. I have them, then the talkers all turn their backs and are in a huddle talking louder than I am on stage. I say " Feel free to ignore me I'm married 23 years I'm used to it" They keep talking I continue with my set and the room is laughing and I pause before the next set up and the Guy in the group shouts out "Maybe if you were funny I would be talking". I continue.... I'm like George Costanza in Sienfeld "Hey George the ocean called their running out of shrimp" ALL I can think about is a comeback and I have none. I begin the next joke and get the light. I start the set up wrong and am so angry they are still talking people around them are all annoyed. I say " I got the light so I just have a few more seconds up hear and instead of finishing this joke Id much rather say some thing else.....SHUT THE FUCK UP!!!! pause........................no really I mean it SHUT THE FUCK UP!!! I'm Robin Fox." As I walk by their table I say to them.... I hope when your friend goes up they get treated the same way you treated me...what goes around. " I walk to get my coat and everyone is high fiving me comics and some audience. I am told I was good. I am thanked for shutting them up. I go into the hall and obsess with what I could have done or said. I wanted to say something like this isn't the movies I can actually hear you. I didn't want to sound like an ass...or cross a line. Mary the MC runs out and says wow that hardly every happens during a showcase. I lost my Heckel virginity. Hell I'm in my third year what did I expect....but just like the real thing It is the next day and I'm still sore. I was standing by the bar and was telling a friend what happened. The pro comics and people at this much longer than me were wondering what the big deal was. I was a being such a girl.... I was really upset by how cold they were to it. Then again..... if you do this its as much a part of the business as the gum under the tables. To them it wasn't a big deal. One comic said.... I love a good ass hole. I love fucking with them back. I don't.
I felt like I was back in 5th grade and being picked on....the reason I became funny in the first place. What was I gonna say....your not coming to my birthday party. The good news is they were quiet the rest of the night.I was waiting in the hall to do my next set and so many comics and audience people said something nice to me. Mostly things like...Im glad you told them off...they were ruining the night. Others just said I was funny and wish they could have heard more. I have been in rooms where people were really chatty sometimes after I have gone up. I have gone up to them and said can you be quiet...Id like to hear. If your at a bringer and your a comic maybe you could do something to help a comic out before it comes to getting nasty. I don't know if that's the answer.
What is it with people that they don't know how to act during live entertainment. Is it that they don't go out of the house and just don't know how to behave?? Turn your cell phone off. ...and if you have to talk leave the room or don't sit in front of the stage at least. To the comics bringging these people ...please if you see your firends ackting like ass holes say something to them....the set you save may be your own. And to myself.....Grow a thicker skin.
Later in the night their comic went up she was so bad it was a train wreck. She looked like she was high and was incoherent. Her group not only talked during her set one got up and walked out shouting "I don't know her'. In the hallway after another woman was from the group and she was talking so loudly as was the entire area by the bathroom.... The manager walked by and asked them to keep it down. I then said...".Yea just Shut the fuck up" The woman recognized my voice and looked right at me I stared her down.... she looked away.
I went to do my second set in the small room their were 8 people left I had a good set. It is never a done deal with this thing. Two days ago I felt on top of the world..... today I feel like I've just started.
Comments are below
congrats
Posted on 12/09/2005 at 04:17 PM by Josh Homer
everyone gets heckled. once a woman heckled me because I am half white and half black, and she 'don't like halfbreeds'. I always follow the Patrick Swayze road house rule, be nice, if they talk, be nice, if they call you names, be nice. Be nice until it's time not to be nice, that way the audience is on your side when you rip them a new one, you don't get people thinking 'man that comic is an asshole' instead they think 'i am glad someone said something to that jerk'.
some clubs ask talkers to be quiet, and if they keep it up to leave (see the IMPROV) but NYCC pretty much leaves you to your own devices up there. i did a show there last monday with ssome english people who talked the whole show, no matter how many comics told them to STFU, or made fun of them. some people just want to be part of the show.
Posted on 12/09/2005 at 04:38 PM by Chris McDevitt
I like to ask everyone in the audience who paid good money to hear a comedy show and not to listen to a drunken douchebage to raise their hand. Then I ask them to extend their middle finger. Then I ask them to wave it at said drunken douchebag.
I like doing that.
P.S., it doesn't work so good on the Train.
Robin...
Posted on 12/09/2005 at 08:15 PM by Adrienne
That room was terrible. They were so chatty, that and I thought the mic was really low. I wish I would have told them to shut the fuck up, I would have felt better about the set then too.
You were great dispite them
Posted on 12/09/2005 at 10:24 PM by Robin Fox
I was so angry I wanted to spit. Its a bringger show you jerk. I only wish I was sucking really tanking and it happened because then I would have felt I deserved it. It was a clear case of someone just not wanting any female to do good. Adrienne you were fantastic all the same even with the talking... Loved the new material. I was so proud of you.
Bringers...
Posted on 12/10/2005 at 09:47 AM by Al Wagner
Seem to bring out the novices...the people who would never be in the club if it weren't for their friends...so without excusing bad behavior it just seems to happen more often at bringers.
At least you got your wish, not only was their friend treated poorly, but by her own group!
Sorry for the difficult experience. I once had a bringer turn out badly since my own group were the idiots, but I won't dwell since I don't want anyone to hear my plaintive roar...
Glad the industry show went well!
-A Fan
Robin, you can't trust the planets!
Posted on 12/10/2005 at 09:58 AM by Kantad Svendsgaard
Seriously, if I've learned anything in the couple of years I've been doing comedy, it is typical to feel very high in the stratosphere one night only to plumb a new low the very next night. I've gotta think the comedians who don't quit and keep plugging along and don't let the last show affect the next show are the ones who make it big. I wish I had your courage - I would have told the Apollo crowd to shut the fuck up. On second thought...
By the way, you were great at Buddy Flip's show. Other comics asked me if I was going up that night, and I was proud to say "no, I'm here to see Robin Fox!"
I feel your pain
Posted on 12/10/2005 at 10:02 AM by Jeanne Noll
Robin, a few years ago I did a show - it was my first real show (not a bringer or open mike). I was doing a guest spot (five minutes at the front). The MC was also the booker and a regular MC at this show so he knew everyone and had inside jokes and they loved him... I was right after him to do my 5 minute guest spot. Right before he went up he told me "Make me look good - you're a professional!" No Pressure There! There was a really drunk lady in front and she wasn't exactly heckeling me - just totally incoherent and making funny loud noises. But she was a regular audience member and had a lot of friends there. I wouldn't dare say anything to her at that point anyway because I very seldom strayed from my totally memorized set. I think I ended up doing 2 1/2 minutes and forgot half of my punchlines - I was extremely flustered! Anyway, when I got down, the pro comics who were there came up to me and said things like, "You get used to that kid..." Like stuff that really left me feeling like everyone knew (thought) that I had no business being there. I came across like it was my first time being on stage and it really hurt. I just remember not being able to get that horrible feeling that I could have said something to save myself, put her in her place and make it funny, out of my mind. I haven't encountered anything like that since so I don't know if I've learned anything from it or if I would react any better if it happened today - but I think from experience I may not get so flustered - at least! I'm doing a bringer at NYCC next week (first time) so hopefully the mike will be loud and those people won't be there or they will have learned something from you. Anyway - good for you for maintaining your composure and saying something to them later on and congrats on your first heckling experience!!!
rule of bringing
Posted on 12/10/2005 at 12:33 PM by Alan Schwartz
If I have doubts as to whether my friend can behave themselves in a comedy club, I wouldn't bring them to see me. That being said, I saw the girl in the hallway being noisy, and while I didn't see her behavior in the room itself, her behavior outside it gave me the picture of what you had to go through. While that may have sucked, eventually it will be a distant memory while it's another night and you're killing uninterrupted.
Look at it from this viewpoint
Posted on 12/10/2005 at 12:42 PM by Shaun Eli
You said that the comedian they came to see was horrible. Clearly they did NOT want to be there. I'm not defending their behavior, but knowing that their friend was so bad, they obviously came into the room with a negative attitude.
Thanks for all the kindness
Posted on 12/10/2005 at 03:37 PM by Robin Fox
People think Im nice but I am really not. I would have paid someone big money to beat that guy up and given me pictures. I dont care why he was there... Keep your mouth shut. I chatt at a whisper and feel guilty when I talk during a show. The other night I had to move my seat because a comic keept talking to me and wouldnt get the hint...that I wanted to hear the show. Gina the manager asked me if she needed to go into the room and handle them, after my letting them have it they were quiet. Its good to know that the club stands behind you.
You go girlfriend!
Posted on 12/11/2005 at 01:11 PM by April Brucker
I think more comics should tell hecklers to shut the fuck up. I mean, you are a very nice lady off stage but I gotta hand it to you, you don't take shit from anyone!
I was nervous because I hadn't performed in over 2 weeks the longest I have taken a break since beginning. After the show I headed downtown to Sal's and he offered to put me up....love him... I followed Rick Shapiro who is god to me and did very well....thank-you planets.
The next night I had 2 spots at the NYCC one in the big room at 9:30 and the second at 11:30. The room was late to fill up and they were a loud group of folks. As the show began it was a bringer I had a booked spot on.... Mary Domino who is cute and hysterical took to the stage to MC. Cell phones were ringing every few minutes people were still being seated. There was a group of people in the front of the room closest to the door....who wouldn't shut up. I was standing by the booth and people all around them were getting annoyed that they were talking. The mic the night before was really hot...you had to hold it away...this night it was running very soft. With talkers it helps somewhat for me if the mic is loud because I can focus on my own voice.
I am pumped up from the night before. I dressed up both nights and felt very confident. Mary introduced me and I took to the stage. As I am walking to the stage the guy in the front says to his group ( I was told this later by a comic sitting near them and heard some of it myself) Great another woman comic I hate them. I hit the stage and I'm off to a strong start. I have them, then the talkers all turn their backs and are in a huddle talking louder than I am on stage. I say " Feel free to ignore me I'm married 23 years I'm used to it" They keep talking I continue with my set and the room is laughing and I pause before the next set up and the Guy in the group shouts out "Maybe if you were funny I would be talking". I continue.... I'm like George Costanza in Sienfeld "Hey George the ocean called their running out of shrimp" ALL I can think about is a comeback and I have none. I begin the next joke and get the light. I start the set up wrong and am so angry they are still talking people around them are all annoyed. I say " I got the light so I just have a few more seconds up hear and instead of finishing this joke Id much rather say some thing else.....SHUT THE FUCK UP!!!! pause........................no really I mean it SHUT THE FUCK UP!!! I'm Robin Fox." As I walk by their table I say to them.... I hope when your friend goes up they get treated the same way you treated me...what goes around. " I walk to get my coat and everyone is high fiving me comics and some audience. I am told I was good. I am thanked for shutting them up. I go into the hall and obsess with what I could have done or said. I wanted to say something like this isn't the movies I can actually hear you. I didn't want to sound like an ass...or cross a line. Mary the MC runs out and says wow that hardly every happens during a showcase. I lost my Heckel virginity. Hell I'm in my third year what did I expect....but just like the real thing It is the next day and I'm still sore. I was standing by the bar and was telling a friend what happened. The pro comics and people at this much longer than me were wondering what the big deal was. I was a being such a girl.... I was really upset by how cold they were to it. Then again..... if you do this its as much a part of the business as the gum under the tables. To them it wasn't a big deal. One comic said.... I love a good ass hole. I love fucking with them back. I don't.
I felt like I was back in 5th grade and being picked on....the reason I became funny in the first place. What was I gonna say....your not coming to my birthday party. The good news is they were quiet the rest of the night.I was waiting in the hall to do my next set and so many comics and audience people said something nice to me. Mostly things like...Im glad you told them off...they were ruining the night. Others just said I was funny and wish they could have heard more. I have been in rooms where people were really chatty sometimes after I have gone up. I have gone up to them and said can you be quiet...Id like to hear. If your at a bringer and your a comic maybe you could do something to help a comic out before it comes to getting nasty. I don't know if that's the answer.
What is it with people that they don't know how to act during live entertainment. Is it that they don't go out of the house and just don't know how to behave?? Turn your cell phone off. ...and if you have to talk leave the room or don't sit in front of the stage at least. To the comics bringging these people ...please if you see your firends ackting like ass holes say something to them....the set you save may be your own. And to myself.....Grow a thicker skin.
Later in the night their comic went up she was so bad it was a train wreck. She looked like she was high and was incoherent. Her group not only talked during her set one got up and walked out shouting "I don't know her'. In the hallway after another woman was from the group and she was talking so loudly as was the entire area by the bathroom.... The manager walked by and asked them to keep it down. I then said...".Yea just Shut the fuck up" The woman recognized my voice and looked right at me I stared her down.... she looked away.
I went to do my second set in the small room their were 8 people left I had a good set. It is never a done deal with this thing. Two days ago I felt on top of the world..... today I feel like I've just started.
Comments are below
congrats
Posted on 12/09/2005 at 04:17 PM by Josh Homer
everyone gets heckled. once a woman heckled me because I am half white and half black, and she 'don't like halfbreeds'. I always follow the Patrick Swayze road house rule, be nice, if they talk, be nice, if they call you names, be nice. Be nice until it's time not to be nice, that way the audience is on your side when you rip them a new one, you don't get people thinking 'man that comic is an asshole' instead they think 'i am glad someone said something to that jerk'.
some clubs ask talkers to be quiet, and if they keep it up to leave (see the IMPROV) but NYCC pretty much leaves you to your own devices up there. i did a show there last monday with ssome english people who talked the whole show, no matter how many comics told them to STFU, or made fun of them. some people just want to be part of the show.
Posted on 12/09/2005 at 04:38 PM by Chris McDevitt
I like to ask everyone in the audience who paid good money to hear a comedy show and not to listen to a drunken douchebage to raise their hand. Then I ask them to extend their middle finger. Then I ask them to wave it at said drunken douchebag.
I like doing that.
P.S., it doesn't work so good on the Train.
Robin...
Posted on 12/09/2005 at 08:15 PM by Adrienne
That room was terrible. They were so chatty, that and I thought the mic was really low. I wish I would have told them to shut the fuck up, I would have felt better about the set then too.
You were great dispite them
Posted on 12/09/2005 at 10:24 PM by Robin Fox
I was so angry I wanted to spit. Its a bringger show you jerk. I only wish I was sucking really tanking and it happened because then I would have felt I deserved it. It was a clear case of someone just not wanting any female to do good. Adrienne you were fantastic all the same even with the talking... Loved the new material. I was so proud of you.
Bringers...
Posted on 12/10/2005 at 09:47 AM by Al Wagner
Seem to bring out the novices...the people who would never be in the club if it weren't for their friends...so without excusing bad behavior it just seems to happen more often at bringers.
At least you got your wish, not only was their friend treated poorly, but by her own group!
Sorry for the difficult experience. I once had a bringer turn out badly since my own group were the idiots, but I won't dwell since I don't want anyone to hear my plaintive roar...
Glad the industry show went well!
-A Fan
Robin, you can't trust the planets!
Posted on 12/10/2005 at 09:58 AM by Kantad Svendsgaard
Seriously, if I've learned anything in the couple of years I've been doing comedy, it is typical to feel very high in the stratosphere one night only to plumb a new low the very next night. I've gotta think the comedians who don't quit and keep plugging along and don't let the last show affect the next show are the ones who make it big. I wish I had your courage - I would have told the Apollo crowd to shut the fuck up. On second thought...
By the way, you were great at Buddy Flip's show. Other comics asked me if I was going up that night, and I was proud to say "no, I'm here to see Robin Fox!"
I feel your pain
Posted on 12/10/2005 at 10:02 AM by Jeanne Noll
Robin, a few years ago I did a show - it was my first real show (not a bringer or open mike). I was doing a guest spot (five minutes at the front). The MC was also the booker and a regular MC at this show so he knew everyone and had inside jokes and they loved him... I was right after him to do my 5 minute guest spot. Right before he went up he told me "Make me look good - you're a professional!" No Pressure There! There was a really drunk lady in front and she wasn't exactly heckeling me - just totally incoherent and making funny loud noises. But she was a regular audience member and had a lot of friends there. I wouldn't dare say anything to her at that point anyway because I very seldom strayed from my totally memorized set. I think I ended up doing 2 1/2 minutes and forgot half of my punchlines - I was extremely flustered! Anyway, when I got down, the pro comics who were there came up to me and said things like, "You get used to that kid..." Like stuff that really left me feeling like everyone knew (thought) that I had no business being there. I came across like it was my first time being on stage and it really hurt. I just remember not being able to get that horrible feeling that I could have said something to save myself, put her in her place and make it funny, out of my mind. I haven't encountered anything like that since so I don't know if I've learned anything from it or if I would react any better if it happened today - but I think from experience I may not get so flustered - at least! I'm doing a bringer at NYCC next week (first time) so hopefully the mike will be loud and those people won't be there or they will have learned something from you. Anyway - good for you for maintaining your composure and saying something to them later on and congrats on your first heckling experience!!!
rule of bringing
Posted on 12/10/2005 at 12:33 PM by Alan Schwartz
If I have doubts as to whether my friend can behave themselves in a comedy club, I wouldn't bring them to see me. That being said, I saw the girl in the hallway being noisy, and while I didn't see her behavior in the room itself, her behavior outside it gave me the picture of what you had to go through. While that may have sucked, eventually it will be a distant memory while it's another night and you're killing uninterrupted.
Look at it from this viewpoint
Posted on 12/10/2005 at 12:42 PM by Shaun Eli
You said that the comedian they came to see was horrible. Clearly they did NOT want to be there. I'm not defending their behavior, but knowing that their friend was so bad, they obviously came into the room with a negative attitude.
Thanks for all the kindness
Posted on 12/10/2005 at 03:37 PM by Robin Fox
People think Im nice but I am really not. I would have paid someone big money to beat that guy up and given me pictures. I dont care why he was there... Keep your mouth shut. I chatt at a whisper and feel guilty when I talk during a show. The other night I had to move my seat because a comic keept talking to me and wouldnt get the hint...that I wanted to hear the show. Gina the manager asked me if she needed to go into the room and handle them, after my letting them have it they were quiet. Its good to know that the club stands behind you.
You go girlfriend!
Posted on 12/11/2005 at 01:11 PM by April Brucker
I think more comics should tell hecklers to shut the fuck up. I mean, you are a very nice lady off stage but I gotta hand it to you, you don't take shit from anyone!
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