Series 3 - Interviews - Episode 21 - Geoff Norcott
Aug 15, 2023
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Geoff Norcott, a writer, comedian, and fan of The Office, joins the hosts for a great discussion about The Office, comedy, and more. They compare The Office to Star Wars, talk about favorite scenes and stand-up comedy, and explore the challenges of touring and performing at the Edinburgh Fringe. They also discuss the World Cup of comedy, the Edinburgh Comedy Award, and future plans for the podcast.
The podcast discusses the impact of social media and the decline of panel shows on the career paths of comedians.
It explores the lasting influence of 'The Office' and highlights the genius of Ricky Gervais' performance.
Deep dives
The changing landscape of comedy
The podcast episode delves into the evolving nature of comedy, highlighting the impact of social media and the decline of panel shows on the career paths of comedians. It discusses how the Edinburgh Fringe Festival has changed and the challenges faced by stand-up comedians in reaching a wider audience. The guest, Jeff Norcott, shares his experiences and insights as a writer, comedian, and political commentator.
The enduring legacy of 'The Office'
The podcast explores the lasting influence and cultural impact of the British comedy series 'The Office'. It discusses how the character of David Brent resonated with audiences, particularly in his awkward and cringe-worthy moments. The guest reflects on his favorite scenes and quotes from the show, highlighting the genius of Ricky Gervais' performance and the organic, improvised nature of the comedy.
Navigating controversy in comedy
The episode delves into the challenges and controversies faced by comedians in the current social and political climate. It examines the idea of punching up versus punching down in comedy and how jokes can be misinterpreted or taken out of context. The guest and hosts discuss the importance of laughter and entertainment in comedy, and the need for a balanced perspective on controversial topics.
The complexities of comedic delivery
The podcast dives into the nuances of comedic delivery, highlighting the power of gestures, expressions, and timing in adding depth and humor to a performance. It explores the difference between scripted jokes and improvised moments in comedy, using examples from 'The Office' and other comedians. The guest reflects on the role of authenticity and audience perception in stand-up comedy.