The Arts in NYC

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Expressions Add Onto Comedy

We've been asked many times what makes a comedian funny. Perhaps it is the exaggerations of everyday situations that we would normally find boring, but now comical because of the exaggerations; or it could be the openness of the topics - racism, sexism, or anything deemed taboo to talk about in public. However, what I find most effective in making an audience laugh, with whatever material is presented, is the proper use of facial expressions and body motions. Like with dancing and singing, interactions and utilization of the space around the performer is essential to a good performance. Not only does it add onto the performance, but it allows the audience to understand that the performer is there to make them laugh and is actually making an effort to do so.

In a way, comedians are communicating with the audience and with each act they are having a different conversation. Now, I find that I am much more engaged in a conversation with somebody if they are speaking enthusiastically with facial expressions and body motions (hand gestures), unless we are on a serious or sad topic - which would still require some sort of expression (I guess?). However, this allows the person on the other end of the conversation to know that they are fully dedicated to the conversation and thus will receive full feedback and reaction to the discussion. In the case of comedy, the reaction or feedback would, of course, be laughter or whatever other emotion the comedian wants to communicate in their act.

Thus, I think it is essential for a comedian to not only learn to tell jokes, but learn "how" to tell the jokes. I am not an expert on comedy, but I'm sure people would agree with me on this point.

- Richard Huang