The emcee

comic
Originally uploaded by icemakk.

I was talking to a friend the other day that had just seen a stand up show at one of the Yuk Yuks clubs. They said something that irked me.
"The first guy, the emcee was funny. He should be a comic!"
Okay people, get this straight. All the guys (and gals) on the stage are comics...at least in Canada.
Quite often the emcee is a headliner, or soon to be headliner, that is not out touring. That is why the show flows so smooth, because the guy running the show, the emcee is a pro. Ok? Get it now??

I can't remember how many times, after doing the emcee slot, I have had someone come up and say, "You were funny, you should be a comedian too!"

Gee I thought standing in front of the mic and making people laugh made me one.

Not when you are the first guy it seems. In the USA they often have the worst or least experienced guy as emcee. I don't know why. It is like starting your dinner with the worst possible taste and hoping it gets better.
"Before we bring out the prime rib, here is your castor oil!" ...okay, maybe not that bad, but you know what I mean.

So people, remember that in Canada, and the UK too for that matter, the emcee (or MC if you prefer) is a stand-up comic. He just may not be doing his regular show and is doing some improv with the crowd.

Do us a favor, if you saw a comic that you really liked, tell the club...of course you will have to remember our names...for a change!!
:-)
Ask him for his business card. We love to booked outside of the clubs too!

Oh yeah, while at the show.....TURN OFF YOUR DAMN CELL PHONE!!
Thanks.....ahem. "Now for your first guest of this evening please welcome (insert name here) !!