Last night, I performed again at Tomato Tuesdays. Once again, the room was packed and the energy was bouncing off the walls. I had prepared all new material, not realizing that it is perfectly acceptable to repeat jokes. Many of the comics do this at open mic as a way to horn their skills.
At the last minute, I decided to repeat one thing I had told the girls in the audience last week. I said, ” Forget the doctor or lawyer…Marry the painter who looks like Patrick Swayze because those kids have a 50/50 chance of coming out looking just like HIM!” Then I introduced my favorite youngest child, who rushed down after work to see his Mother perform! He’s a good looking guy (remember this is a Jewish Mother talking!) so I wanted the audience to see my “work” and why it paid off to marry a VERY handsome man!
Writing comedy and making an audience laugh is a big challenge. I have so much respect for anyone who has the courage to get up in front of a crowd and do their thing! As I watch these kids perform, I see tremendous potential and a real passion for what they do. If I was their Mother, I would be so proud of each and every one of them!
On a more personal level, writing and performing comedy has been therapeutic for me! Two years ago, while traveling in Virginia, I was attacked in a rest stop by a crazy lady. She sprayed me in the eyes with a disinfectant, causing permanent eye damage. I don’t see well anymore and for a long time, this put me in a dark place (emotionally). I was so angry, I couldn’t find the light at the end of the tunnel!
Comedy has brought me back and for that I am forever grateful!
