Laughter in the Library

Comedy isn’t an easy thing, in fact, some say it is *the* hardest job out there, which is why Anne Kissel, self-described as Connecticut’s Biggest Mouth, is helping kids start early by teaching a free standup comedy class for teens at the Huntington branch library on Thursday.

The class began last Thursday and will hold another class this week, before ending with a public performance the week afterwards, so those looking for advice about their comedy should make this week's class a priority. The attendance at last Thursday’s class was unfortunately low, likely due to the rehearsals for the high school play occurring at the same time, according to Shawn Fields, the Director of the Huntington branch library.

“You don’t always know what you’re competing with,” said Fields.

Kissel continued on though, doling out advice about how to get started in standup comedy, stressing that each comic has to find their own voice.

“Anything can be funny,” said Kissel. “Trust your own instinct. If you think something is funny, it usually is.”

Kissel stressed the importance of keeping a notepad, recorder or anything with which you can take notes as inspiration can hit at any time, so it’s best to be prepared. Along with that, Kissel stressed writing every day, even if it’s not a lot and even if you never use it.

“You’re never done with comedy,” said Kissel, “You’re never at your best point.”

While starting out, any aspiring comic should go to as many open mic nights as possible, according to Kissel. The five minutes given to each comic at an open mic night can be a daunting task. “Five minutes is a long time,” said Kissel, “Just try talking for five minutes, then try being funny for five minutes.”

As for hecklers, Kissel recommends ignoring them and never, ever insult your audience, even if you bomb.

“Bombing is good. Bombing is good,” said Kissel, “It just toughens you up.”