by Andy Beningo

Some of the most enjoyable (and awkward) moments of performing standup comedy have come immediately after the show has ended. This is usually when comedians stand by the door to thank audience members for coming to the show. To me, there is no greater joy than having an audience member tell you how much they enjoyed a certain part of the act. For them to be able to relate to your material and laugh is a powerful feeling. However, over the last few months, I have noticed that the reactions from crowds are much different now. Rather than getting the simple, “Hey, nice job!” Comments seem to be more heart filled. In Madison, Wisconsin, last week, people came up to me and said things like, “Thanks for the laughs, I really needed it.” “Thank you for making me laugh. It’s been a while.” What’s with the sudden change?

The truth is, no matter where you go, people are hurting. People are scared for their jobs, their homes and their financial future. It almost seems as if people have forgotten to laugh. Times have gotten so tough that the host of the Tonight Show is coming to our hometown to give a “Comedy Stimulus Plan” concert. What Leno helped me realize is that we need stand up comedy in our lives more than ever.

It’s hard to explain, but there is a certain type of magic that makes stand up comedy such a beautiful art form. The audience’s energy “buzz” before the show, the blinding stage lights, the cigarettes and alcohol smell: it all comes together to make a magical evening for audience members and performers alike. For that hour and a half, we forget about everything. We forget about our jobs, our bills, our lives. And for that hour and a half, we laugh. We let our sides ache, we wipe our tears away, and we laugh. That’s what makes stand up comedy so incredible. For a short while, we’re able to escape the hardships of life and simply enjoy it. For all the comedians of Michigan, whether you’re an open mic’er or a headliner, you should be proud of yourself. Whether you’re doing 5 minutes or 5 hours, you’re making a huge difference in somebody’s life.

So, c’mon Detroit! Go wait in line for Leno tickets. Go to the Comedy Castle and see the Comedy Festival. Come see me open for Emo Philips at Dr. Grin’s (I admit, this is a shameless plug). Just get out of the house and see some “live” comedy. They say it best at the Comedy Club on State Street in Madison: “Take a break from life, and laugh.”