10.26.2006

The Humor Issue

Or, "Why are we making humor an issue?"

In case you're unaware, our show was mentioned during the roundtable discussion in Time Out's Humor Issue.

The point of contention is whether or not our show is "marginalizing."

My question is: marginalizing to whom? The 80+ comics who do our show on a regular basis? Many of whom have huge credits and all of whom are wonderfully talented? Or the men who come to our show every week (and perform occasionally when we have special events) and have a truly great time? I'm not sure.

Nichelle and I both know our show is "controversial." Some people don't like the name. I can understand that. Some people love it. I understand that, too. What I don't understand is a leading question about a show that aims to do no more than create a community in which good times are the rule.

That sounds pretty awesome to me.

Yes, our show exhibits female comedians. No, we're not a "troupe." Chicks and Giggles is a weekly showcase of some of the best up-and-coming and professional comedians in New York. That's what it is. There's nothing that binds the women who perform on the show comedically - they come from all backgrounds (stand-up, music, improv, sketch) and they all have different styles: some dry, some intellectual, some wild, some absurd. Much like the women you might find studying at a women's college, the women who do this show are not running from men or trying to find a "safe space" to perform. They are celebrating who they are in a joyous way collectively. In today's climate, that seems pretty dangerous to me.

I can only speak for myself in saying that as much as I love my show, I love ALL the shows I perform on in New York because I love comedy and the people who create it. Especially the ones with balls.

In closing, come to our show. Have a few cheap beers and a lot of laughs. We love you.

10.09.2006

Chicks and Giggles Presents: Corkscrew Comedy


curlygurls
Originally uploaded by Undiscovered Superstar.


We had a show where all the female performers had curly hair.  It was a niche within a niche.
Brandy Barber
Michelle Buteau
Molly Reisner
Carla Rhodes
Erin and Her Cello
Adira Amram

Hosted Carolyn Castiglia