Exploring the Art of Comedy with Mary Kaplan

Bob

Welcome, everyone! I'm Bob, and today we have a very special guest, the incredibly talented comedian and improv artist, Mary Kaplan. Mary, it's a pleasure to have you with us today!

Mary Kaplan

Thank you, Bob! It's great to be here. I'm excited to chat about comedy and share some insights.

Bob

Mary, you recently wrote about how improv can enhance stand-up comedy. Could you tell us more about that?

Mary Kaplan

Absolutely! Improv teaches you to be present and responsive, which are crucial skills for stand-up. When you're on stage, you never know what the audience will do or say, so being able to think on your feet is invaluable. Additionally, improv helps you find the 'game' in a joke, which is the specific funny thing that you can heighten and explore.

Bob

That's really interesting. Could you explain what you mean by the 'game' in a joke?

Mary Kaplan

Sure! The 'game' is essentially the core funny idea or premise of a joke. It's the unique and specific angle that makes the joke stand out. For example, if you're talking about a mundane topic like engaging your core, the 'game' could be the absurdity of not knowing how to do it, or the idea that jacked people are always engaging their core, even in everyday situations. Once you find the 'game', you can heighten it and explore it in different ways.

Bob

You also mentioned the Harold structure. How does that relate to stand-up comedy?

Mary Kaplan

The Harold is a structured improv format that typically involves three separate storylines that eventually tie together. In stand-up, you can use a similar structure by starting with a premise and then finding at least three different 'games' or angles to explore. This allows you to build a more complex and engaging set, much like a well-structured sketch or a movie.

Bob

That's a great point. You recently performed at the das Improv Festival. How was that experience?

Mary Kaplan

It was incredible! The das Improv Festival is a fantastic event that brings together some of the best improvisers from around the world. It was a great opportunity to see different styles and approaches to improv, and it really inspired me to push my own boundaries. The energy and creativity were just amazing.

Bob

What do you think is the role of spontaneity in creating memorable comedy?

Mary Kaplan

Spontaneity is crucial because it allows you to connect with the audience in real-time. When you're spontaneous, you can react to the room, the energy, and even unexpected moments. This can lead to some of the most memorable and hilarious moments in a performance. It's also what keeps comedy fresh and exciting, both for the performer and the audience.

Bob

What are some of the challenges and rewards of being a comedian?

Mary Kaplan

One of the biggest challenges is dealing with rejection and the uncertainty of whether a joke will land. Comedy is subjective, and not everyone will find the same things funny. But the rewards are immense. When you connect with an audience and make them laugh, it's an incredible feeling. It's also a way to bring people together and provide a sense of joy and relief, especially during tough times.

Bob

Who are some of your influences and inspirations in the world of comedy?

Mary Kaplan

I have so many influences! Comedians like Maria Bamford, Richard Pryor, and John Mulaney have had a significant impact on my style. Their ability to find humor in the mundane and to connect with their audiences on a deep level is something I strive for in my own work. I also draw inspiration from improvisers and writers who push the boundaries of what comedy can be.

Bob

What can we expect from you in the future? Any upcoming projects or goals?

Mary Kaplan

I have a few exciting projects in the works! I'm developing a new stand-up special that explores the intersection of personal stories and broader social issues. I'm also working on a comedy podcast that will feature interviews with other comedians and creatives. Plus, I'm always looking for new opportunities to perform and collaborate with other artists.

Bob

Mary, it's been a fantastic conversation. Thank you so much for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. We can't wait to see what you have in store for the future!

Mary Kaplan

Thank you, Bob! It's been a pleasure, and I'm excited to keep creating and sharing more comedy. Thanks for having me!