My own stand up comedy career has steered me towards daytime and early evening corporate events but the love of comedy clubs lurks around every next corner.
Last Friday was Zanies Comedy Clubs "soft" opening night - let's say an "opening" night rehearsal. I'd been offered a spot to be one of the first comedians to perform in the new room and I turned it down. This was my husband's "baby" (My husband is Bert Haas - VP of Zanies) and I wanted him to soak up the credit and celebrate with him. My only focus was giving him flowers on stage. I wanted to tell him that after 25 years of "husband" jokes, it was absolutely time to say "thank you" and "congratulations" and "job so well done." I wanted Bert to walk on stage and receive the flowers and get acknowledgement because he deserves it. I did not plan to "do time" (comic's expression of performing on stage.)
My idea did not seem to sit well with the host because he was concerned I might bring the show's opening to a "serious" or perhaps "emotional" halt and I completely understood. He was concerned that the flowers might bring a slowing element to the stage that night and he asked that I first "do a little time." I eventually agreed to perform but with great reservation.
The reason for my reluctance was actually very internally acute.
I resisted because I knew the comedy drug would kick in and kick in strong and I'd be back in the 2:00 a.m. comedy club scene mentality. All my fears were well-founded. With a glass half-full, I celebrate re-entry into late-night funny.
