Get a behind-the-scenes look at the exhilarating journey to performing at a major comedy venue. Discover the blend of excitement and anxiety that comes before a big show, along with personal rituals that help ease performance nerves. Fashion takes center stage as the host reflects on authenticity and sustainability in comic style. Dive into the evolution from aspiring comedian to a live performance, and learn how to tackle complex themes like climate change in humor without overwhelming the audience.
The speaker reflects on his journey from street performer to comedian, emphasizing the importance of setting and achieving personal goals for professional growth.
He shares the intricate preparation and emotional complexity of performing live at 'Live at the Apollo,' highlighting the balance between authenticity and audience engagement.
Deep dives
Career Journey and Early Influences
The speaker shares reflections on his long career as a comedian, starting from his early days as a street performer at the age of 16. He recalls a pivotal moment when he and his best friend earned £30 from street shows, leading them to believe they could pursue comedy full-time without needing traditional jobs. Over the years, he has built a diverse portfolio as a writer, performer, and podcaster, taking pride in his commitment to comedy as a lifelong career. This journey shaped his desire to perform at prestigious venues, culminating in a dream to appear on 'Live at the Apollo.'
Manifestation and Goal Setting
The speaker discusses the importance of writing down goals as a method of manifestation, highlighting how he created a list of aspirations early in his career. Among these goals were performing at prominent festivals and gaining representation from reputable management agencies. He emphasizes that although he has achieved many of these dreams, the process was never straightforward, as the journey of a comedian is often fraught with challenges. The act of ticking off these accomplishments serves as a motivational reminder of his professional growth and determination.
Preparing for 'Live at the Apollo'
As the speaker prepares for his appearance on 'Live at the Apollo,' he elaborates on the meticulous planning and rehearsal required. He discusses the producer run-through where he faced the pressure of performing to a select audience while striving to maintain authenticity in his set. The speaker reflects on the unique challenges of performing climate-related material, emphasizing the need to build trust with his audience to effectively convey his message. He expresses excitement about the opportunity while navigating the nerves that accompany such a high-stakes performance.
Post-Performance Reflections
After completing his set, the speaker shares his immediate emotions, expressing a mix of relief and disappointment in how he performed. While he felt that the beginning of his routine was a bit mechanical, he gained confidence as he progressed through his material. The feedback from friends and audience members post-performance helped shift his perspective, allowing him to recognize the success of the night. As he looks ahead, he is eager to continue honing his craft and preparing for future shows, reiterating his commitment to delivering impactful and engaging comedy.
Take a peak behind the curtain of my Live At The Apollo "journey" where we discuss booking the gig, the preparation of the set, performing live to over 3,800 people (plus everyone at home) and the immediate aftermath! You can now watch Live At The Apollo with myself, Tim Renkow and Janine Harouni onBBC iPlayer.
Join the Insiders Club at patreon.com/comcompod where you can WATCH this episode, plus you'll normally get some juicy exclusive extras!