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I have a comedian friend who has an extremely dark complexion. When this guy sweats, he looks like a leather couch. But he never mentions it. Never makes any comedic hay out of his appearance. Do you agree with this practice? Is this smart? In his effort to distance himself from defjam comedy, is he making another mistake?

I actually think that's a good rule for the average "brother" with medium complexions. But if you're extremely anything -- it should be comedic fodder. If it's good enough for Jim Gaffigan, it's good enough for me. My friend is a good comic. Far better than me. But he gets less love onstage because the audience perceives him as being pretentious! And there goes his likability.

mojones,

Like I always say:

Keep It Real!

tis2flyyy,

That comedian I was referring to, actually got far in a comedy contest. Eventually he was eliminated though. I guess I was being a bit presumptuous telling someone how to structure their sets. But hey, all comedians are egomaniacs who suffer from low self esteem anyway. It's to be expected. Now that I've crashed, I'm more lucid. Comedy is a personal thing. We each have to grow in our own direction. The only true enemy is time. If we had enough of it, we'd all evolve into better comics....but alas, time is finite...thus we have to make choices with how we present ourselves to the public..

mojones,

it seems you have to walk a fine line. I think it's important to acknowledge what makes you unique but some comics make it their whole act. Josh Blue for example is a funny guy, but he spends so much time dwelling on his cerebal palsy that it leaves doubt as to whether he has any other material.

Anditsdeeptoo,

You're right. If it's obvious, acknowledge it -- you have too. But don't obsess over it. Sean Rouse does a good balancing act. He definitely mentions his arthritis onstage. But he goes on to other things as well. And he's consistently funny throughout his entire act. Dat Phan, on the other hand -- need I say more?

God knows I've been guilty of stating the obvious too much. The audience will generally let you know, though, by their response or lack thereof.