Of all the performing arts, stand-up comedy is my favourite. Comedians know how to say the obvious in ways that tickle us. I believe they are one of the smartest bunch of human beings — the world’s finest observers & sharp readers of human psychology.
I respect comedians for the obligation to keep coming up with new jokes. The moment a joke is heard, it begins to expire. We do not hear the audience of standup comedy say “once more”! Unlike music, where audiences expect more of the same. (I don’t really get it but I acknowledge the ability of live music concerts to make the audience emotional enough to cry!)
Standup is far less spontaneous than it looks. Long before a set reaches the main stage, it’s been tested and sharpened in smaller groups and comedy clubs. So now, when I’m laughing at a joke, I’m also applauding the months of unseen labor behind it.
There’s a quiet public service in what they do. In a world with plenty of reasons to frown, a comedian who can make strangers laugh is doing important work for society.
I am happy to have witnessed these performers live and I intend to keep this list growing.
- Aiyyo Shraddha — So Mini Things
- Alexander Babu Arulantha — ALEXPERIENCE
- Amit Tandon — Hamare Zamaane Mein & Halwa
- Atul Khatri
- Deepak Chandran — Time Traveller
- Julie Collas — Oh My God She’s Parisian
- Maz Jobrani — Peaceful Warrior
- Olivier Giraud — How to Become a Parisian in One Hour
- Rishi Budhrani — Can I Make You A Suit, Mate?
- Trevor Noah — Off The Record Tour
- Vir Das — Hey Stranger
If you share a similar passion and are working to support this art form, I’m interested in learning more.