Day: June 12, 2009

So here's a horrible idea for a comedy contest just waiting to happen. What's that? It's already happening? Right now!?! And Comedy Central is responsible for this. Oh, brother (I don't have a brother). Here's what I see as the fundamental problem with the "Open Mic Challenge" that just got underway at Jokes.com. Anyone who knows comedy knows that the secret to comedy is…go on, ask me what the secret to comedy is…"What's the" TIMING! Yes. Too funny. Of course, being funny also is a pretty big not secret rule #1a of how to be funny. Right around rule #1aa, however, is the even more important rule: Be yourself. Provide a unique voice and point of view. So Comedy Central has this new Open Mic Challenge, and they say they'll give you the chance to be on TV if, and I quote them here: "Are you inspired by Lewis Black? Can you channel Chris Rock? How's your Jim Gaffigan impression? Comedy Central wants you to 'give us your best.' Upload a video that pays tribute to one of your favorite stand-ups — and shows off your own comedy chops. Your video could be featured on TV during our 4th of July Stand-Up Blowout Weekend." Note that they didn't call this an impersonation contest. They called it "give us your best" of someone else's jokes, or channeling the spirit of someone...