How The Stand-Up Biz Really Works

Allworth Press, NYC

Allworth Press Media Release:

Most critics will agree that we may never again see a performer like the late and brilliant comedian Johnny Carson. He made it look so easy. But if it was easy, then more people would become comedians. With comedy clubs booming, one can find many up-and-coming performers who have the talent to make people laugh. But talent isn't enough. Like their predecessors before them, it takes hard work, dedication, discipline and experience to rise above the rest.

As a nationally recognized and sought-after comedy coach and talent coordinator, Dave Schwensen knows what it takes to make it in this competitive industry. For years he has been helping others achieve their dreams through his comedy workshops and seminars. Now, for the first time, he shares his expertise in Comedy FAQs and Answers, a series of thoughtful questions and answers that every aspiring comedian needs to know to launch a successful career. Written in an entertaining and informative style, it addresses such topics as:

* How do you start?

* How do you write?

* Where do you perform?

* What can you do to make your performances better?

* How can you be seen by people who can put the odds in your favor of becoming a successful comedian?

To answer these and other questions, Schwensen has solicited the help of an impressive group of experienced comedians and industry heavyweights. Together with comics like the late George Carlin, Brett Butler, Dave Attell, Margaret Cho, George Wallace, Jeff Foxworthy, Lewis Black, Weird Al Yankovic and dozens of others, they answer the questions with their unique and often humorous point-of-view.

The book is divided into four sections devoted to the various phases of developing a successful career in comedy: Pre-Stage, On-Stage, Off-Stage and Back-Stage. Dave and his fellow contributors cover the craft of being an artist and the methods behind the business for those who want to start right now to learn what it takes to follow in the footsteps of the brotherhood of comics.

The final FAQ comes from the author himself: "What's the best advice for anyone who wants to be a success in this noble profession?" George Carlin and the late Richard Jeni take on this question. Carlin implores you to: "write, write, write, write, write. Have a lot of material. Have a lot of choices." While Jeni advises that you need time and experience, "Until you've been doing it for, like three years, you really can't even judge whether you have a future in it or not." By following the combined wisdom of this talented group of contributors, Comedy FAQ's and Answers offers all aspiring comics a chance to find out if they have what it takes and then, if they do, how to make it to the top.

"A 'must': one of the best industry insider guides on the market." - Bookwatch Monthly