For any new comedian, performing stand-up can be a daunting experience. At times it can seem like you’re just trying out jokes in front of a crowd of dead-eyed critics waiting for the first chance they get to heckle you.
However, this is not the case at Derby. Derby is a comedy troupe at Penn State that exclusively supports female and non-binary comics. By allowing new comedians a supportive space to try out new routines, Derby allows women to take a chance and try something new without the pressure of a large, judgemental crowd.
Tonight was Derby’s first open mic night, and it proved to be just as funny as promised. I attended as a viewer, but the support that flowed from the club members almost made me want to get up there and perform something myself! Sure, I have stage fright and that sounds like actual tourture, but hypothetically it would be fun.
Each woman was given 5 minutes to go through their routine then was able to receive feedback from members of the club. By providing constructive criticism and helpful suggestions, club members helped the aspiring stand-ups to perfect their act. For instance, when one comedian told a story about her grandmother’s obvious favoritism towards the comedian’s brother, the club president, Chelsea, gave a great suggestion about playing up the contrast between the grandmom’s view of the brother vs reality.
By giving people notes in a helpful, constructive manner (as opposed to heckling), Derby acts as an opportunity to practice as well as just a way to make people laugh.
You may be thinking to yourself “Sure, this is great and all, but why would I want to go to one of these shows? I’m not an aspiring stand-up. I’m not even a woman, and women aren’t even that funny!”
Well, hopefully, you’re not thinking that last part, but even if you were, going to a Derby open mic will definitely change your mind. Outside of the benefits for the comedians themselves, attending a Derby show is a real treat for the audience member! Each performer was funny in her own unique way, whether her style of comedy focused on telling a relatable story or presenting a silly PowerPoint.
All in all, attending the Derby show was the best choice I’ve made all week (yes, even better than getting that “Freak Shake” at Redifer for dinner). I highly recommend going to the next one for anyone interested in a hilarious night of laughs and supportive female friendships.
This is such a great platform for new comedians! I had no idea Penn State offered this and now I kind of want to go watch one of their exhibitions. I think it’s hard for people to try standup, especially for the first time, and especially being a girl. I have a lot of friends that would be really good at this. Thank you for sharing! Also I can’t wait to try a freak shake I missed them this time!
This is a really cool post because of it is relative to our school and relates perfectly to your blog. I did not know there was a club for female and non-binary comedians to try out their own routines and honestly never would have guessed that. Honestly, it is really cool that you guys have your own space to feel free and make mistakes knowing the reaction will be one of support.
Oh this is a very interesting thing to go to! I don’t aspire to be a stand up comedian, and people usually don’t get my sense of humor, but I love me some comedy! This is something that I should go out to check if I have the time to do so! I wasn’t even aware that it existed until now.
I did not even know this existed–and to an even lesser degree–at Penn State! Public speaking is nerve-racking for me so I’m sure performing would be a death wish! I admire that this pace offers judgmental, constructive criticism. It reminds of my studio class pin-ups where we each take turns critiquing each other work so we can get better at what we do.