I am learning so much in your comedy workshop and I'm anxious to take the stage but I'm afraid to do any material about my partner. I don't want to hurt his feelings or offend anyone in his family.
~ Concerned student
Dear Concerned,
This is a very normal concern for beginning comics as well as seasoned performers and writers.
I started doing stand-up when I was married and my first 5 minutes was all about my husband. I was in a comedy class just like you and we both assumed he would be in the audience when I did my showcase. But as that night approached and I realized my funniest material was about my failing marriage, I asked him not to come and he complied. Whew!
Throughout the years, I have written material about exes and dates from hell and have never really felt comfortable with them in the room so sometimes I will alter material. Some of the jokes were so personal, that no one else in the room would know who I was talking about so if the subject of my humor didn't draw attention to themselves no one would know. But then there was the ride home...
Currently my solo show deals heavily with my relationship with my mother and some sensitive issues she would prefer to keep secret. She knows about the show but doesn't really know what it's about. She also lives 3,000 miles away. If there ever came a time when she wanted to see it, we would have to have a little chat.
I suggest you courageously speak your truth, especially if it's funny then choose:
1) Ask your partner not to attend your showcase (tell him why)
2) Express your concerns then let him decide
3) Encourage him to attend. He may actually enjoy being a part of your act. If not, be prepared to sleep on the couch.
IT'S YOUR TIME TO SHINE IN '09!!
Email your questions about acting, comedy, or solo show production to [email protected] and I'll answer them in the next Show Biz Tip of the Month.