149. Bridget Everett: The Star of HBO’s Somebody Somewhere on Risking It All
Oct 28, 2024
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Bridget Everett, a vibrant star from HBO’s 'Somebody Somewhere' and a pioneering figure in New York’s experimental theater scene, shares her insights on creative risk-taking and processing grief through art. She recounts her unforgettable collaboration with Patti LuPone at Carnegie Hall and the wild audience reactions to her bold songs like 'Titties.' The conversation dives into authenticity in performance, family influences on creativity, and the emotional power of music, all while balancing humor and vulnerability in her journey.
Bridget Everett highlights the unpredictable nature of live performances, demonstrating how humor can turn negative audience reactions into empowering moments.
The discussion emphasizes the profound impact of personal grief and experiences on an artist's creativity, revealing how authenticity fosters deeper audience connections.
Deep dives
Extreme Reactions in Live Performances
Live performances can elicit extreme reactions from the audience, as illustrated by an incident where a performer faced unexpected negativity from a woman at a show in Chicago. After singing a particular song, the woman repeatedly declared the performer to be 'sick', showcasing a disconnect between the performer and a segment of the audience. Despite the rattling experience, the performer chose to react playfully by drinking the woman's champagne, turning the negative encounter into a moment of triumph. This incident spoke to the unpredictable nature of live performances, highlighting the need for performers to navigate audience reactions with humor.
Evolution of a Stand-up Comedy Show
The transformative journey of a stand-up comedy show is emphasized, showcasing how performances evolve over time. The performer shared that their upcoming show, originally titled 'Please Stop the Ride,' has changed significantly, now being called 'The Good Life,' reflecting ongoing development. Audiences can expect a show that is about 50 to 60 percent different from previous versions, indicating that each performance is unique and tailored to the moment. This adaptability is vital for engaging the audience and enhancing the comedic experience.
Influence of Personal Life on Creativity
Personal experiences heavily influence creative expression, especially regarding moments of grief and inspiration. The performer highlighted losing a beloved pet and how such experiences have shaped their understanding of love and loss, thus informing their artistic work. The connections formed with family, particularly in music, further deepened the emotional weight behind their performances. This relationship between life events and creativity illustrates how artists often draw upon their personal narratives to connect with their audiences on a deeper level.
The Importance of Authenticity in Performance
Authenticity stands out as a crucial element in engaging performances, where being true to oneself allows for deeper connections with the audience. The performer expressed a desire to be fearless and carefree while on stage, embodying a version of themselves that they aspire to be. Contrasting the pressure to conform or be 'intellectually stimulating,' they emphasized that real connection comes from genuine self-expression. This reinforces the idea that embracing one's individuality is essential not only for personal satisfaction but also for resonating with audiences.
Bridget Everett, star of the hit HBO series “Somebody Somewhere,” joins Mike on the podcast this week to discuss creative risks and processing grief and loss through their work. Plus, that time Bridget and Patti LuPone performed together at Carnegie Hall. Also, Bridget describes the most outrageous audience reactions she has received in response to performing her songs like “Titties” and “What I Gotta Do to Get That Dick.”