Caroline Hirsch, the founder of Carolines on Broadway, opens up about the 20th annual New York Comedy Festival and the impactful Stand Up for Heroes event. She shares insights on this year's impressive lineup, featuring big names like Bill Maher and Judd Apatow. The conversation also highlights the role of comedy in political discourse and its evolution in the digital age. Plus, Caroline discusses how the festival fosters community through shared laughter, especially in support of veterans and their causes.
The New York Comedy Festival, founded by Caroline Hirsch, features a diverse lineup and raises funds for veteran empowerment through events like Stand Up for Heroes.
Comedy serves as a vital platform for political discourse, allowing comedians to address current events in ways that resonate with audiences.
Deep dives
Instagram's Teen Account Protections
Instagram is implementing new features aimed at enhancing the safety of teen users on the platform. These teen accounts come with automatic restrictions on who can contact them and the type of content they can view, promoting a healthier online environment. This approach demonstrates a commitment to protecting young individuals from potential risks associated with social media use. By providing these built-in limits, parents can feel more at ease while their teens engage with the platform.
The Legacy of the New York Comedy Festival
The New York Comedy Festival, founded by Caroline Hirsch, showcases a stellar lineup of comedians and brings together a variety of shows across the city. This year's festival is particularly significant as it includes a tribute to Joan Rivers and an array of renowned performers such as Bill Maher and Bruce Springsteen. The festival not only entertains but also supports important causes, such as empowering veterans through events like Stand Up for Heroes, which has raised over a hundred million dollars since its inception. The organizational effort required for such a large-scale event highlights the festival's dedication to both comedy and community engagement.
Comedy's Role in Political Discourse
Comedy continues to play a crucial role in political conversations and commentary, especially during election seasons. Comedians, like those participating in the New York Comedy Festival, often address current events through humor, making complex topics more accessible to a wider audience. Notably, shows like 'SNL' and comedians such as Jim Gaffigan have been able to connect with viewers on political issues, demonstrating the medium's influence in shaping public opinion. This evolving landscape of comedy reflects not only entertainment but also its power to impact societal perceptions and discussions.
Carolines on Broadway Founder & Owner Caroline Hirsch discusses the 20th annual New York ComedyFestival this November and the Stand Up for Heroes event. She spoke to Bloomberg's Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec.