Debi Gutierrez: THE NAKED TRUTH…ABOUT MEN AND WOMEN

Debi Gutierrez goes from Mommy to Comic in two seconds flat.

While the feisty West Coast comedian, actor and talk show host loads a rack of dishes, the devoted wife and mom is also summoning the mojo and spunk to talk kids, stress and sex in a cross-country interview.  And it works.

“My comedy is based on what goes on in my life, (with) my family, my husband, my girlfriends and even the bedroom!” Debi says of her comedy set—one fans around the country declare is as unique and entertaining as it is undeniably truthful and funny.

“I am every mom!” Debi says. “I have kids, I have a job, I have to bake 38 cupcakes at the last minute, and I pray the soccer team never makes the playoffs! I love my husband but at the end of the day am too tired to show it!”

Better than therapy, Debi is a pro and laying out the non-mysteries of men (and women). Her material is yanked straight from her own life of “doing it all wrong,” she says. The comedian’s male/female-friendly act has drawn sold-out crowds around the U.S. and garnered Debi gigs on Comics Unleashed, The Rosie O’Donnell Show, Ghost Whisperer and Malcolm & Eddie.

She’s also performed on Univision’s Que Locos and at Showtime’s Latino Laugh Festival, Montreal Just for Laughs and HBO’s “U.S. Comedy Arts Festival. This week Wednesday through Saturday, Nov. 11 – 14, Debi brings everything to the stage at the Skyline Comedy Cafe.

Let’s get to know her better first, shall we?

A typical day in the life of Debi Gutierrez goes something like?

I wake up first thing in the morning, like most mommies out there, and get out of bed to get my kid moving! I make breakfast and pack lunch and then I am lucky enough to hand her over to my husband who takes her to school.  Since my husband and I work together from our home office, we have coffee and discuss our game plan for the day.   It’s hard for me to work from home because again, like most mommies, my home is my work as well!  So I could be interviewing with someone across the country while I am loading the dishwasher.

The things that always come with you on the road are…?

My iPod!  I have books on tape and podcasts I enjoy listening to.  I always take a good book, because I rarely get time to read at home!  I take hand sanitizer and Lysol because I am a germ-a-phobe!

What never fails to make YOU laugh is…?

I LOVE Craig Ferguson’s opening sketches!  Those puppets are HILARIOUS!  In fact, I have one on tape I watch when I need a laugh!  Puppets on late night…LOVE IT!

Moments that you’ll never forget from hosting TV, doing stand-up and working on set?

The Rosie O’Donnell Show. The producers booked a last-minute guest–Jennifer Love Hewitt! It was a terrific surprise for me and the audience. She was a delight!  You can see it on YouTube. Funny stuff!

When you get to the Skyline Comedy Cafe next week…

We are going to have a rocking good time!  I am the female comic for men and the women they love!  I speak the truth about how cool men are and how much fun we can have with them. I love bringing couples together and I am better than marriage counseling because you can have cocktails there!  We talk kids, stress and sex.

It feels like you could be anyone’s mom, sister, friend…What makes your show so relatable to people?

Because it is real! My comedy is based on what goes on in my life … I am “mommied” all day and forget to take care of myself. I love my man and have studied men in general and know how they feel, talk, act and (what they) expect.  Men really love my act because they are not put down, and I tell it like it is! I also let men in on women’s thoughts and feelings.

You jumped from teaching high-schoolers to, now, international comedian, actor, speaker…Why did you want out of the classroom and up on stage?

I never started out to be a teacher! I always wanted to be a comedian.  But no parent would ever encourage their kid to be a stand-up comic!  I would watch and study all the greats on Johnny Carson and dream about becoming a comic. And it was a big dream, because at the time I was watching there were very few women in the business and no Hispanics.

One thing we always hear is, you aren’t a “typical” female comic. Did you ever feel a sense of being stereotyped?  What do you think does make your act so different?

Some female comics have reputations for being man haters and bitter about relationships.  Some talk about their body, boyfriends and monthly cycle! Some talk about their mothers or being a mother to the point of boredom.  I don’t do any of that.  I love men! They are cool people! I don’t always understand them. I mean how do you explain someone who spits in a urinal….(I don’t even think he knows why, he just does it!).  I talk about relationships, and the secret to a good one is “if he’s hungry you feed him, if he’s horny you *%$#^ him!”   So easy!!!

I have been written up as being a sexist because of what I say on stage about men and relationships. The truth is, no man really wants to talk and share feelings….HE IS NOT YOUR GIRLFRIEND! He’s a man!  I have been accused of claiming women are powerless in a relationship…Are you kidding me?!  Your guy has a bad day at work and at the end of the day you are naked holding a cupcake?! That is power!  Do your man on a regular basis and you have a man who will walk through hell to get you a glass of lemonade!  That is power! I talk about how frustrating motherhood is and how to fix it! (Bring daddy on board!)  I talk about how women compare themselves to other women and even do favors for women they don’t even like….Screw it, put yourself at the top of your To Do list.  I love talking about these dynamics in such an honest and fun way!  Trust me…women and men love this act and that is what separated me from the female comic who bashes a man and thinks PMS and bikini waxes are funny!

What does your family think of you being a comedian?  Do your kids think Mom is funny?

Nope!  Not at all.  In fact the baby asked us not to tell anyone what I do for a living or that Daddy is Mommy’s booking agent because they will think we are “circus folk.”

Your latest album “He’s Not Your Girlfriend” covers material from your own life. What were YOU “doing all wrong” that lent to this hilarious CD?

Come see the show!  I will explain it all!  Treat your man like a man, quit expecting him to be like a woman. He isn’t wired that way!  He loves you and shows you in other ways; we as women just don’t notice!  (Like…) C’mon. What man likes his home decorated for Christmas? None of them!  But they still spend a whole weekend getting everything out of a basement and putting it all up and then taking it down another weekend to put it all back…and why?  He does it for his girl because he loves her.  That is so wonderfully cool.

You appeal to people across the board. What makes you funny to men and women?

I am honest ABOUT the sexes, TO the sexes!  I don’t bash anyone.  I am a little naughty and raw!  I know when couples leave the show, they appreciate each other in ways they couldn’t achieve in marriage counseling or church!

So you’ve done acting, hosting TV shows and live stand-up. What’s most fun, and what’s most challenging?

I love the stand-up!  It is my show, my research, my observation, my take.  It is challenging because there is no net! The challenging part of stand-up is that audiences don’t always get revved up to see a female comic.  I have a stereotype to shatter before I even get on stage.  I hope this blog helps!

What else should fans know about you before seeing you in Appleton next week?

Check out my web site: www.debiontheweb.com!  You can see me in action! Have fun sharing the clips with each other and then plan on getting a sitter and come on out!

Debi Online

On MySpace

VIDEOS

Come back next week for another exclusive Sneak Peek behind Skyline Comedy Cafe’s unmatched comedy talents!  You can catch DEBI GUTIERREZ live this week in Appleton Nov. 11 – 14. Get those seats before they’re gone; Debi always sells out!

(920) 734-JOKE (5653)   |   Skyline Comedy Official

Hit and run with ROBERT HAWKINS

 

Robert Hawkins is a lot of things–writer, actor, story editor, bicycle-lover. And a witty stand-up vet who, if you ask any of his peers, is one of the all-time greatest comedians.

If you want more on that, though, probably best you don’t ask Google–considering you’ll get 1.45 million hits, some of the unfortunately unfunny variety.

“First you’ll get the nut bag who shot up the mall in Omaha,” Robert says. “When I go back there I change my name to Sirhan Sirhan.”

But the Comedy Central, CMT and late-night TV guru is all funny, all week when he comes back to Appleton’s Skyline Comedy Cafe for a Special Event Wednesday through Saturday (Nov. 4 – 7).

We could tell you more about his half-hour Comedy Central Presents special or spots on Showtime, A&E, FOX, and what have you. Instead, here’s a quick-hit ice breaker to help fans get better acquainted:

You were born and raised where?

South Florida.  I grew up in the north Cuba, south New York, east Mexico, west Uganda area.  I talk about it on my album In Charge Around Here. (available free at www.roberthawkins.biz)

Any nicknames growing up? nowadays? in the biz?

My name is interchangeable. Robert, Rob, Robby, Bob, Bobby, Hawkins, Hawk, Hawkeye.  Just don’t google me, because it’s a very common name.  First you’ll get the nut bag who shot up the mall in Omaha. When I go back there I change my name to Sirhan Sirhan.  It seems that all my friends have he same nickname for everyone.  Douche. That one has monster shelf life doesn’t it?

Your prized possessions?

I love my bicycle like some people love their horse.  Although, it’s been difficult to find video of someone having intercourse with a bicycle.  Until now.  Check out my website.

Married? Kids?

Someday. But those won’t mix with all the traveling I do.  My life is: go on the road for two months, come home and take the dog out to the trash.

What always comes on the road with you?

The Sonic Ear Hearing Device As Seen On TV.  The other day, I overheard someone say, “Who’s the douche with the Sonic Ear?”

Vices?

The usual.

What you think people most remember after meeting you?

My website and the free album.  I’m really pushing it hard and it’s freakin’ free so there’s no reason not to get it.

All right, moving along…You’re heading to Appleton this week. What immediately comes to mind when I say that?

I hid something in the condo four years ago and I can’t wait to see if it’s still there.

How about a little preview for folks who haven’t had the chance to see you before…What are Skyline Comedy fans in for?

There are tons of videos of me on YouTube and my site.  Folks can get a real good sample there.

When you’re up on stage, is anything going through your head beyond the material?

Yes.  A loop of Billy Joel’s “Piano Man.”

Best, and worst, show experiences since you started stand-up?

A guy had a heart attack during my show in St. Louis.  That one fits in both categories.

Back in 2001 club owners voted you as one of 25 best comics in the country, which is awesome.  Why do you think they did?

They only asked two owners and they both owed me money.

We also noticed you took home the big “Roofie” award in Aspen this year. Did you have to give a big Hollywood Acceptance Speech?

I gave a short thank you.  I don’t handle compliments well even though I need them.  And it was awesome.

Comedians and club owners have mentioned you being a Comic’s Comic. Is that something you’re appreciative of, or does it add a little pressure to constantly write and perform well?

I do it all for the nookie.

Speaking of writing and performing. You’ve done comedy in just about every capacity–cable and network TV, writing, acting…Does one lend to the other, and do you enjoy one aspect more than another?

In any capacity it’s a rush. I like stand-up the best because it’s live and immediate.

Any new projects we should know about before you get to town? And, any parting words for us?

Just that dagged old website. www.roberthawkins.biz and the free album you can download to a disc or MP3 player.  If you like it, come to Skyline and see some new stuff. If you don’t, delete it.  I’m not going to shoot you.  I’m the nice Robert Hawkins.

Robert Online

Comedy Central

MySpace

VIDEOS

That’s it for our Q & A quickie with Robert Hawkins. Want more, check out the links above and make those reservations early to see him at Skyline Comedy:

(920) 734-JOKE (5653)   |   Skyline Comedy Online

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6pI_BOnuJ8I

LACHLAN PATTERSON: CANDY MAN

Lachlan Patterson could’ve been a landscaper, motorcycle racer or home alarm installer.

If he didn’t hate ‘em.

Rather, the Vancouver native mustered enough courage to get onstage to test his comedic chops…..And spent the next 6 years feeling like he sucked. “If you can do something terribly and still enjoy it, that’s a great career,” he says.

In the spotlight since, Lachlan (lock-lan, by the way) has mastered the art of turning life’s mistakes and unfortunate events into extreme laughing matter. In just a few years, he’s caught the attention of Comedy Central, The Comedy Network, CBC and the minds behind gigs like Montreal Just for Laughs and Vancouver International Comedy Festival.

But we’re sure he’s much more excited to be returning to Wisconsin’s only Premier Place to see live stand-up comedy (see also: shameless self-promotion).

As Lachlan pondered what to dress up as for his Halloween-week gigs (Oct. 28 – 31, with CASH PRIZES costume contests both shows Saturday), we picked Lachlan’s brain about other funny stuff. We kicked it off with a quick round Fill In The Blank, to get better acquainted:

1. Right now it’s [2 p.m. Wednesday, and I'm shopping for a car online.  What does "priced to sell" mean? Is there any other reason to price something? It can't be priced to stay.]

2. The last time I came to Skyline Comedy Cafe was…[I can't remember, and I'll never forget how f'ing cold it was.  We had to cancel one show even.]

3. When I get on stage this week, get ready because [I am bringing candy.  However, I haven't figured out what I am going as.  What are you going as?]

4. I love stand-up comedy because [of the appreciation I get for my effort.  People clap for me when I get to work and as soon as I leave.  I think we should do that for every job.  "Ladies and gentlemen, Taco Bell is proud to welcome ..... Mario!"]

5. What you’d never know about is…[I went through 28 jobs and 5 post secondary schools before finding stand-up comedy.]

And then it was time to move on to some other good stuff:

You’re from Vancouver originally, right? Is it all that different than the U.S., and has moving to the States given you a whole new array of comedy ideas, or not so much?

Vancouver is the same as the United States for the most part. Except the free health care.  Here I have no medical, so if I collapse on stage don’t call 911; call your PE teacher.

People always wonder, “do comedians find themselves funny?”  Do you ever watch recordings of your shows to critique yourself? Do you ever laugh at yourself?

Never, I think I’m terrible.  Can’t watch myself.  I’ve never laughed at myself except when I say something stupid that no one would ever find funny.

Growing up…what else did you want to be? And how did you come to pick stand-up?

I tried several jobs out.  I wanted to be a landscaper, motorcycle racer, graphic designer, painter, home alarm installer.  I just ended up hating everything else, and I quit all of them before I really even started.  Stand-up was just something that I always wanted to do but never had the courage.  Once I got that first show under my belt, it was much easier to suck.  So I continued to suck for the next 6 years without much stress.  If you can do something terribly and still enjoy it, that’s a great career.

Is there anybody in your life who was shocked that you went into comedy, or was it something people always knew you’d do?

I was always trying new things when I first started.  My father still isn’t sure why I’m doing it, but hopefully I’ll be able to better explain it to him one day.

What’s going on in the world right now that you might like to put in your set?

Um, Obama just got the Nobel Peace Prize. I think that’s interesting.  Also, the day he got the Prize, NASA fired two rockets into the moon hoping to explode a part of it. Just interesting to me that upon receiving the Nobel Peace Prize one would immediately attack a defenseless rock that helps me sleep at night.  Wish Obama would leave my moon alone. Attack the sun if you have to.  No one got cancer from too much moon.

What are your big plans for the next year or so? Any projects comedy fans should watch out for?

Yes, I am recording a CD this month coming out in December on iTunes, Amazon and RooftopComedy.com.  Also working on some sketches that I will be sure to upload online.  Be sure to check out all my show times at my new Website Lachlachpatterson.com, which will be up and running very soon.

Anything else you’d tell Skyline fans before you get here?

I can’t wait to see you guys!  Please come say hi to me on the way out after the show if you want to.  I love to talk movies, football, Christianity and Pyramid investments.

Lachlan Online

On Comedy Central

MySpace hookup

VIDEOS!

That’s all she wrote, folks. If you want more of this Candy Man (and his Halloween treats), better reserve those seats: (920) 734-JOKE (5653)

See Lachlan Wednesday thru Saturday (Oct. 28 – 31).  **Saturday’s guaranteed to fill quick…CASH prizes up for grabs for Best Costume and Best Group Costumes @ BOTH performances. Score.

Kira Soltanovich: GIRL BEHAVING BADLY

Kira Soltanovich was a pro at pulling pranks even before her hidden-camera exploits on Girls Behaving Badly and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

Flashback to one Halloween. Then a dramatic arts student at San Diego State University, Kira was about to meet her new step mom.

Waiting at the airport gate (before 9/11 restrictions) for her dad and the new addition, Kira took a queue from the cob-web decorated walls and borrowed the airline’s spooky decorations.

“I was really bad like that,” Kira snickers. “I threw them on top of me, saw my dad coming off the plane and behind him was my step mom, who I’d never met before, and I decided I was just going to scare the hell out of her, jump in front of her in this huge getup and see if she had a good sense of humor.”

Fortunately Step Mom wasn’t the uptight type and totally passed the test. “She laughed hysterically,” Kira recalls. “I said, ‘OK, you’re in the family.’”

Since college, Kira’s career in comedy hasn’t seen a minute of downtime. The hilariously spunky comic has splayed her fiery chops everywhere from Oxygen’s now-syndicated Girls Behaving Badly and Showtime’s 90-minute special Hot Tamales Live to NBC’s Last Comic Standing and a slew of international comedy competitions. She’s no stranger to TV, either, having appeared on shows like 3rd Rock From the Sun and on the Phony Photo Booth segment on The Jay Leno Show.

more about “Showtime comedy Special Hot Tamales L…“

Just back from a 25-day tour in Capetown, South Africa (!), Kira is on the brink of recording her own half-hour Showtime special in December and will shoot a TV pilot after her first-ever appearance at Skyline Comedy Cafe this week, Oct. 21 – 24.

“Well there’s a lot of nudity, a lot of nudity. A lot of it’s gratuitous,” Kira quips about what Fox Cities guests can look forward to. “And monkeys, I think. If they get shipped in time before I fly out there.”

Before she took flight, we put Kira through the Skyline Comedy metal detector. Check it:

Skyline Comedy: You just got back from South Africa! How was that?

Kira: I did! I was there for 25 days. It..was..incredible. I had such an amazing time. The crowds were great, the shows were all awesome, all the other comics were cool. There were some American comics, a dude from Germany, the rest were South African. I was the only chick.

Skyline Comedy: Really?! That had to be something.

Kira: It was weird. Because, not only was I the only female, but they don’t have any female comedians in South Africa. Which can be painful.  No…(laughs)

Skyline Comedy: So did you have to get all the vaccines and everything to go over there?

Kira: No, you don’t need to, to go to South Africa; maybe other parts…They make you pee in a cup just to see if you’re on anything. (laughs) No, you don’t have to. It’s weird; no vaccines, no Visas. It’s like flying to Arkansas. You just go.

Skyline Comedy: So not like here, where everyone’s all worried about the Swine Flu, and “should we get vaccinated?”

Kira: You know, when I was over there I didn’t watch a lot of news. The only news I could find was BBC, and they don’t really cover crazy things happening in America.  I guess Swine Flu is back, back in season, back in style.  Yeah, well I don’t know. I kind of feel like – and I’m not a conspiracy theorist – but the convenience. All of a sudden it’s winter, flu time and they’re like “don’t forget Swine Flu!”  Like, in South African no one talks about Swine Flu or having it. It’s not a worldwide epidemic.

Skyline Comedy: Good to know!  So, this is your very first time at the Skyline Comedy Cafe …

Kira: It is definitely the first time. First time in Appleton.  Appleton, strangely enough, I had to get shots for. And a Visa. They make you fill out all this paperwork.

Skyline Comedy: So tell us about the hidden camera shows! We were watching some of your Phony Photo Booth clips from The Tonight Show, which are hysterical.

Kira: Well, you know, the Photo Booth stuff I got because of Girls Behaving Badly. I’d done so many seasons of a hidden camera show, and (Photo Booth) is hidden camera. I’m hidden-hidden.  Now on The Jay Leno Show I’ll be in front of the camera.

Skyline Comedy: Awesome. Hidden camera pranks have got to be so much fun to do.

Kira: Oh, I love it. I love it. And for a while I was like the go-to hidden camera gal, because I had two hidden camera shows … at one time.  I’m like, “Do I not look good on camera? Why’s everyone trying to keep me off camera?”

Skyline Comedy: Doubtful…So what are we in for when you come to Skyline for the first time?

Kira: Well…a lot of nudity and monkeys. The monkeys are not nude, they’re dressed. I’m not an animal; that’s just disgusting.  (laughs)  No, but the shows are different. I change them up every night.  The core material I might do and talk about, but I can’t just stand in front of the audience and do a monologue.  For me, my sanity, I mix it up and play with the audience. Learn about Wisconsin. Because it’s the only time I can really learn about where people are from, what are the major industries.  If people come to see my show more than once — which they better (laughs) — it’s a different show every night.

Skyline Comedy: You’ve got other projects going on, too, besides touring?

Kira: Yeah, I’m shooting my own Showtime special in December. My own half hour. So that’s exciting.  And if anyone’s in L.A., come to the taping. Woo hoo!  And I’m also shooting a pilot that’s coming out, when I come back from Wisconsin!  So I’m working on those things, just working the road; that’s the biggest thing in my life right now.

Skyline Comedy: Do you like being on the road all the time, or does it get tiring?

Kira: I do love it, I do love it.  When I can kind of go in, do my thing and come back.  It’s hard when you’re away from home for so long. You’ve packed bags. When I’m 3 weeks on the road, seriously, I can’t look at the pair of jeans I brought with. Even though you go and do laundry, I can’t stand to look at those clothes.  I can’t stand the sound of my own voice, after I’ve done 20 shows on the road. It’s tiresome but great.

Skyline Comedy: What are some of the greatest memories — so far — that stand out from TV, the touring, shows…?

Kira: Doing stand-up in South Africa is most fresh in my mind.  I’ve done some pretty cool shows in some pretty amazing places. I’ve been to Guantanamo Bay, done shows for the detainees. They hear every word because I’m on stage about 200 yards away from them. So they hear every word I’m saying, and they’re freaking out because I’m a woman on stage. And I’m Jewish.  Everything they hate about the world — women and Jews.  Submarines, I’ve performed on.  In terms of TV stuff, I did a pilot with Dennis Rodman. Which was just bananas. The man is an octopus. You see his hands in front of you, and he’s somehow cupping your butt at the same time. He’s so grabby. Not just to me but everybody, to everybody on set. The crew. He’s spooning people.  He’s 6′7″; you’re just intimidated by looking at him, and he’s got this Lamo-Brite haircut. He’s crazy to work with besides that, so you can’t concentrate on anything. This My Little Pony mane…

Skyline Comedy: So what haven’t you done that you’d like to someday?

Kira: Performing for Smurfs. I haven’t booked that gig yet. I don’t know, would they get my material?  Um, whenever you shoot a pilot you always looks forward to getting that picked up. That’d be cool.  And just more international gigs, like South Africa; I’m going back next year. So I’ll do another week in Johannesburg, go to Greece, Rissia — international comedy. I’ll tackle more of that. Not in Greek, though. I’ll perform in English.

Skyline Comedy: Nice. Anything else we ought to know before we get the laughs going this week (Oct. 21 – 24)?

Kira: I’m allergic to Penicillin, if that helps?  I’m AB positive, blood type. I’m trying to cut down on dairy.  Gosh, I shouldn’t say that; I’m coming to Wisconsin. I’m going to be eating a lot of dairy, a lot of cheese.

That’s it. Wanna here more?  Make reservations to see KIRA SOLTANOVICH at the Skyline Comedy Cafe this week Wednesday through Saturday (Oct 21 – 24).  And check back in with Behind The Mic every week to catch exclusive interviews with the comedy biz’s best, freshest names.

KIRA ONLINE

ON MYSPACE

VIDEOS

(920) 734-JOKE (5653) for reservations   |  Skyline Comedy Official

J.R. Brow: LEARN TO LAUGH

J.R. Brow is driving in pouring rain through the Ozark Mountains a couple hours outside Columbia, MO. A city where the mood apparently teeters with every fumble of the pigskin.

“And they don’t know how to drive either,” he notes.

With that, we figure its best to let the comic get to his gig in one piece. I mean, we want to see him back in Appleton next week (October 14 – 17) to woo our Sweetest Day couples. So we opt to let the road warrior focus on the slick roads and check in with him the next day.

Not much has lifted the mood in ol’ Columbia — but then again, that’s J.R.’s job.

“Ah! Man, it’s brutal here,” he says by phone Friday. “I mean, I don’t care. College ball’s not my thing; I’m not a big fan, really, of the Tigers…Yeah. The whole town pretty much revolves around football. Even the way they’re driving is Rrrrrr.”

Luckily J.R. is a pro at bringing folks outta their grumpy funks. The Texas comedian, who’s about to give his act an international shove, does cartwheels around relationships, religion, politics and pop culture. Instigating laughter on all fronts and for crowds of all backgrounds, J.R. stands out in the comedy game “like a grain of rice in a bowl of black beans,” lighting up stages from the San Francisco International Comedy Competition, to HBO’s “U.S. Comedy Arts Festival” and Comedy Central’s “Live at Gotham.”

Skyline nabbed a few more minutes with J.R. Brow to give you a sneak peek prelude to his buzzed-about run in Appleton:

Skyline Comedy: You know, we can relate up here to how football affects people. You know, the Packers vs. Vikings last week?

J.R. Brow: That’s a city that revolves around football! Oh my God. It’s funny because I think, well…In Appleton, you’re a little safer out there. It’s right around Lambeau. It’s like a flux capacitor where all the energy flows in and out of the city.  The closer you get to Lambeau, the bigger the smiles are.

Skyline Comedy: That’s true.  So what have you got for us this time around?

J.R. Brow: All new material.  I’ve gotten all this material together from watching other comics. (laughs) I’m just kidding.  They can expect a well-rounded show with a guy who does impressions.  I’ll give you a headline — I do observational stuff. Character driven. I play my Fender Strat. That’s icing on the cake.

Skyline Comedy: So what inspires your material, or what makes you go, “Ohh, I’ve got to bring that to the stage”?

J.R. Brow: To tell people to lighten up, that’s fun.  You don’t wanna die grumpy, so even if the Packers do lose…try to be happy.  I know, I’m a Cowboys fan. I know grumpy.  Really, my thing in life is “have fun, learn to laugh.” And I think during my show I don’t really hammer home any theme. “Oh, I’m a married guy, here’s my problems.”  I’m a married guy who’s happy.  I am still promoting the “dumber by the decade” theme. I love my country, but…

Skyline Comedy: So you grew up with an Army dad, huh?

J.R. Brow: Yep, I was an Army brat.

Skyline Comedy: What did your dad think about you going into comedy?

J.R. Brow: Well. He didn’t want that.  He wanted me to join the service. I’m like, “No, dude. I wanna be the only kid in the family to break away from that.” An army of one less.  I wanted to be a comic, get the hell out of the barracks, the post.  In high school I was voted “Most Likely to Move.”  It kinda goes hand in hand, really, if you think about it. My dad traveled all the time, and I said I don’t wanna be in the service and travel all the time. (laughs) No, I wanna be a comic…and travel all the time.

Skyline Comedy: You’ll be here over Sweetest Day…are you couples friendly?

J.R. Brow: Oh yeah. I’ve been happily married for 16 years. Nine the first time, 7 this time (laughs). Yeah. But of course. I do some stuff about being married, and it’s all good. I don’t slam marriage.

Skyline Comedy: Have you performed for your family and friends? Some comics say that’s a little uncomfortable. Is it easier or tougher being in front of certain crowds?

J.R. Brow: No, because I’m an entertainer of the masses. I’m not an underground cult comedian.  I don’t appeal solely to potheads, I’m not the guy looking for chicks and single. I’m mass appeal.  I’m like the nondenominational comic. Every denomination’s welcome in my church, even though I started out Catholic.

Skyline Comedy: Sweet. What other projects do you have going we might want to know about before we see ya?

J.R. Brow: I just got back from Barcelona, Spain, where I was a speaker for this organization. I had to watch five, six different keynote speakers do their thing and at the end of the week sum it up in a humorous way.  That wasn’t the only challenge. It was an international crowd, 300 people from these different countries. My Army brat background came back full circle.  There was a crowd from Germany, the United Arab Emerites, China, Japan; everybody was there, all laughing.  So the big thing this year is to go international. I want to get out to Australia, the UK. I’m shoot for Ireland, you know.  And I think the Internet is helping me do that. People from the United Arab Emerites came up and said, (heavily accented) “I saw your clips on the Internet. And thought you were very funny. You sound French.”

Skyline Comedy: That’s awesome. Well, anything else you’d like to say to Appleton comedy fans?

J.R. Brow: Yes.  Come to the show.  You’ll be pleasantly surprised. You might not know me, but you’ll wanna know me. (laughs) I’m the worst salesman.  I’ve been in (comedy) for 20 years for a reason. “Love what you do, do what you love.” And I love doing nothing…

That’s all for this sneak peek. But check back in with Behind The Mic every week to catch exclusive interviews with the comedy biz’s best, freshest names.

J.R. BROW ONLINE

ON MYSPACE

COMEDY CENTRAL

VIDEOS

(920) 734-JOKE (5653) for reservations   |  Skyline Comedy Official

Nothing small about ROB LITTLE

In the era of Z. Cavaricci, Jordache and hip stone-washed jeans, Rob Little was the chubby-cheeked goofball dangling from the monkey bars in Sears-brand Husky’s.

With the store’s trademark leather label conspicuously plastered on his backside, screaming playground “fashion faux pas.”

Fortunately the sparkle in Rob’s optimistic outlook hasn’t diminished. Over the years, the relentlessly energetic comic has taken his ever-youthful set from the Boston International Comedy Festival to Comedy Central’s “Distractions,” and in 2008 was named MAXIM magazine’s “Comedian of the Year.”

No stranger to sketch comedy, Rob’s also lent his contagiously funny chops to “Last Call with Carson Daly” and FOX Sports Net’s Best Damn Sports Show Period.

And it’s always sunny in Appleton when Rob is in town! The comedian returns to entertain and hang with his fervent local fans, headlining a Special Event week at the Skyline Comedy Cafe Wednesday through Saturday, Oct 7 – 10.

We played quick catch-up with the comic late last week. Here’s what went down:

Skyline Comedy: You’re no stranger to Appleton, are ya, Rob?

Rob Little: Oh my God, no. I’ve been here like a dozen times already.  I love Wisconsin people. It’s just always, like, a good time!  It’s always fun there, never any pressure. I just come, have fun and everybody’s just cool about everything.  I always wanna go out after, hang out with people. It’s not like that everywhere.

Skyline Comedy: Yeah? You go over well here?

Rob Little: (chuckles) I’m pretty goofy and silly, and Wisconsin people eat that up.

Skyline Comedy: Yeah, Wisconsinites like to have a good time , have some drinks …

Rob Little: Drinking helps (laughs).

Skyline Comedy: So what are we in for this time?

Rob Little: Plenty of hil-arity. For more of, you know, the same. Goofiness.

Skyline Comedy: What kind of stuff do you get into?

Rob Little: I talk a lot about myself and my family, experiences I’ve had and relationships I’ve been in. Life in general, really. Stuff everybody can relate to. I try to make it so that everybody goes, ‘Oh my God, I used to do that!”

Skyline Comedy: You’ve got a lot of great stories from the playground…

Rob Little: I love that kind of stuff, where it takes you back to a time or place or anything like that, because it’s something we all have in common.

Skyline Comedy: What were you really like as a kid?

Rob Little: Pretty much the same as I am as an adult. I’m a goofy, chubby kid (laughs).

Skyline Comedy: Nice. So what other projects might you have going on?

Rob Little: I just signed with new management, so I’m in talks with Conan O’Brien’s people right now. And next summer, possibly, we’re looking at doing a Comedy Central special…

Skyline Comedy: Ah, yes, a half-hour special?

Rob Little: Yep. And I’m going to be shooting a TBS commercial.

Skyline Comedy: Nice. We’ve seen the sketch comedy bits for football you’ve done.

Rob Little: Yeah! I used to do them for the Best Damn Sports Show (Period).

Skyline Comedy: You do a mix of sketch and stand-up. How is that?

Rob Little: Sketch comedy is fun too, because that’s what I started out in.  I used to be in Second City in Detroit, and that’s all basically sketch or improv comedy. It’s fun, I love doing it; it’s just another aspect of comedy, so…Obviously when you’re doing your stand-up, it’s written out material. And sketch is basically written, acted out material. I don’t usually get to interact with other people on stage, so it’s cool.

Skyline Comedy: That’s true.  So, we also saw this award you won last year…How exactly does one become MAXIM magazine’s “Comedian of the Year”?

Rob Little: You know what? It was actually a competition that they had all across the United States, and comedians would compete in their region, then at finals in Vegas, and I won it.

Skyline Comedy: Ahhh. We were wondering, “hmm, what did he have to do?”

Rob Little: Yeah, I got a photo layout, and…No. (laughs) Because I have a sweet rack!  I love boobs; that’s why I grew my own. Ha, ridiculous. No, I got some money and the title.

Skyline Comedy: Sweet. Anything you want Appleton to know before next week?

Rob Little: I have a brand new Web site – RobLittle.com.  I have this killer closer that they gotta stick around to see. Not that they’re gonna get up and leave anyway… It’s like a song parody, but it’s killing everywhere. I don’t wanna give it away.

That’s it for this quickie.  Check out the Appleton Post Crescent’s FOX CITIES HUB online this week for ALL the goods on ROB LITTLE.

Rob Little Online

On MySpace

VIDEO CLIPS

(920) 734- JOKE (5653) to reserve your spot  |  Skyline Comedy Online

Chad Daniels: THE TRUTH IS FUNNIER

Chad Daniels can’t tell a lie.

Well, that’s not true.

But the Minnesota-based comedian prefers to work with nonfiction when he’s laying into guys for being embarrassed to buy their ladies tampons, or revealing the art of using scare tactics on his children. Fortunately, his truths are funnier than most fiction.

Chad’s bitingly smart, honestly original bits won him “Viewers Choice Comic” at the 2009 RooftopComedy Festival and have taken the rising star from late-night TV and Comedy Central’s “Live at Gotham” and “Laugh Riots” to the Montreal Just for Laughs Festival and a 2008 Comedy Central Presents special aptly titled “Busy Being Awesome.”

It’s been a while since the Appleton fave touched down in the Fox Cities, but Chad’s just days away from kicking off Skyline’s big Joketoberfest run – an October chalk full of unstoppable, unmatched talent. Before that happens, though, we go. Behind The Mic, that is:

Skyline Comedy: Remind me, have you experienced Appleton and Skyline Comedy crowds before?

Chad Daniels: I have.  It’s been a while since I’ve been there, but I used to be there all the time.  I did a couple guest sets last year and realized what I’ve been missing with the hot crowds and fun staff.  Also, on my 30th birthday, I did mushrooms for the first time in Appleton.  I figured, two kids and a mortgage? Why not try mushrooms?

Skyline Comedy: Your Comedy Central Presents special came out last year, you’re a touring machine…tell fans what else you’ve been up to lately.

Chad Daniels: It’s none of their fucking business.

Skyline Comedy: When you get into town, we’ll probably still be cleaning up from Octoberfest…(Are you still in Minneapolis? I think they just had a little of that last week…) Wisconsin crowds love their festivals, and their comedy. Have you noticed?

Chad Daniels: I have noticed.  One of my favorite parts of coming to the Skyline is standing up in the sound booth with Cliff and noticing that there isn’t any room for me to sit in the showroom.  The crowds are always ready to go, and one time I made out with a girl in the elevator on the way up to the show.

Skyline Comedy: What do you have in store for Appleton this time around?

Chad Daniels: I’m going to do some radio shows, hit a dirty snowball at Cleo’s, tell some stories, field some questions about the big game coming up on October 5, hit a couple thrift stores, and sun bathe without any clothes on.  NO mushrooms.

Skyline Comedy: In your sets, we get to hear about how family life goes for you…are your wife and kids one of your great sources for inspiration? And what do they think about being in your sets?

Chad Daniels: My wife hates it.  My kids aren’t allowed to use the internet so I’m cool for now.  Plus, my house my rules.

Skyline Comedy: Do your kids think Dad is funny?

Chad Daniels: They have never met me.  When I’m home they’re tied up in the basement with their mouths duct taped.

Skyline Comedy: What, in general, do YOU find funny? Like, you’re watching TV or walking down the street…what are the things you wanna point out to the guy next to you and thus wind up with you on stage?

Chad Daniels: I think that there is funny in everything.  I try to point out things that other people don’t see.  And I try to be as truthful as possible when I’m on stage. Even if it makes me look like an idiot.

Skyline Comedy: Let’s go back a bit to your early days…what was the climb like for you, going from emcee to now, and was it a rough road or something that happened pretty naturally?

Chad Daniels: I’ve had a lot of people in my corner throughout the years which helped a great deal.  There was a lot of driving, a lot of not getting paid, and a lot of not feeling very funny.  I think the turning point was when I did mushrooms in Appleton.

Skyline Comedy: Might be tough to pick, but what is your best and worst memory from stand-up gigs?

Chad Daniels: It’s lame, but the best and worst time in comedy was the first time I tried it.  I bombed so hard, but I was hooked.

Skyline Comedy: Your favorite stand-up bit by someone else, ever?

Chad Daniels: Anything from Ian Bagg, Robert Hawkins, Tommy Johnagin’s Two Black Eyes bit, and David Huntsberger’s Reincarnation bit.

Skyline Comedy: Any parting words, anything else we should know about Chad Daniels?

Chad Daniels: If you don’t come to the show I send you Anthrax.  And I look amazingly sexy in elevators.

That’s all we wrote for this delve into the bitingly smart, benevolently riotous mind of to Chad Daniels. But bring it back here for exclusive looks at comedy’s biggest, freshest names before they hit Appleton.

Chad Daniels Online

Chad on Comedy Central

Chad on MySpace

VIDEOS

(920) 734-JOKE (5653)   |  Skyline Comedy Official

Chad Daniels manufactures a perfect balance of bitingly smart, benevolently riotous stand-up comedy. The Minneapolis-born funny guy is just as comfy launching rants about birth control and Southern comedy as he is laying into guys who are embarrassed to buy their ladies tampons. Named Viewer’s Choice comic at the 2009 Aspen RooftopComedy Festival, Chad has appeared on Comedy Central’s “Live at Gotham” and “Laugh Riots,” “The Late Late Show” and at the Montreal Just for Laughs Festival. His half-hour Comedy Central Presents special “Busy Being Awesome” debuted in 2008.

Quickies with DWIGHT YORK

Dwight York gets rights to the main event–sans comical foreplay, sidetracks, detours and tangents other comedians find a necessary part of courting their audience.

At first sight on stage, all he says by way of a forewarning is,  “I hope you like jokes,” says the Wisconsin comedian, who checked in with Skyline Comedy Cafe from home in Amery, Wis., last weekend.

“It keeps the audience on their toes,” he adds, of his rapid-fire style. “I deliver more laughs per minute than just about anybody in the business.

Dwight’s made another date with Appleton crowds this week Wednesday through Saturday (Sept. 23 – 26), and he comes baring back-to-back jokes that always light fires and tickle funny bones. Not just a funny guy, the showman pioneers an unforgettably unique stand-up set–clever, original and hysterical bits that keep fans slapping their knees all night.

Before he rolls into the Fox Cities, Skyline put Dwight in the hot seat to “Fill Us In” on the famed one-liners that led to the comic’s latest album Quickies (recorded at Skyline last year!)…

I’m Dwight York. You might know me [from The Bob and Tom Show.] It’s been [a year and a half since I've got in front of crowds at the Skyline, but I'm coming back Sept. 23 - 26.]

Last time I was here [I recorded my new CD Quickies (Stand-Up! Records), which has just been released.] I fully expect this time around [to make all four days a CD release party.]

As I write this, [I am at home in small-town Amery, WI. I'm trying to finish this interview so I can watch the Packer Game. Go Pack Go!]

A couple things comedy fans should know about me: [My act is different.  I often start out my shows by saying "hope you like jokes"; then the joke slinging begins and never ends until I say "goodnight" a couple hundred one-liners later.  I titled my CD Quickies because my jokes are short but satisfying...Like I tell a lot of jokes, most of them get laughs, but I've been known to toss in one that gets the groan/big laugh.  "I'm not a health expert but I heard a banana a day is a great way to keep your colon clean. Apparently you got to eat them."  Did I go too far?  I also like to tell jokes that sometimes take a moment for the crowd to get. There will be a moment of confused silence, following by laughter spreading throughout the room. An example of that would be: "I saw this guy on the side of the road with a sign that says, 'will work for food.' So I gave him a coconut."]

Skyline Comedy: All right, Dwight. That was fun, now…moving on. What do you like about the joke-slinging biz? And how’d you develop your rapid-fire style?

Dwight York: I like my rapid-fire style because it keeps the audience on their toes. They never know what’s coming next because I’m all over the place as far as content.  I developed the style because I hated comics that had long, drawn-out setups. I wanted to get right to the punch line.  I’m proud that I deliver more laughs per minute than just about anybody in the business.

Skyline Comedy: Where does the funny stuff come to you from? And do you remember any aha! moment when you knew the biz would be your future?

Dwight York: I mostly come up with jokes while driving or at my computer. With me is always a tiny voice recorder.  Anytime I get an inspiration I record that idea. Then I meticulously work on the precise wording later at my computer.  I hated my boring factory job and spent months working on my first open mic set. It went well that first night, and I was hooked.

Skyline Comedy: You recorded Quickies at the Skyline last year. People probably don’t know what goes into making an album…enlighten us?

Dwight York: A lot of work went into putting together the final product. We recorded five shows and the producer and owner of Stand-Up! Records Dan Schlissel is a perfectionist.  He also won a Grammy producing a CD for Lewis Black.  Anyway, Dan spent something like 40 hours in the studio editing the CD, picking out the best version of each jokes from all different shows.  Being that one-liner comic, it took a lot more work because it wasn’t easy to pick and choose the ones we liked best. We also spent a lot of time and money on the design.  The front cover artwork was done by world-famous caricaturist Mork Drucker, longtime illustrator for Mad Magazine.  I am very proud of the final product and the reviews so far have been amazingly good.  Knock on wood!

Skyline Comedy: Times are tough nowadays. People go out a little less, worry a lot more.  Why do you think they still need to get out and see live comedy?

Dwight York: Spend that hard-earned money close to home, I say. And laughter is not only a great way to relieve stress and forget about your worries; it’s been proven therapeutic and good for one’s health.

Skyline Comedy: If a kid came up to you and asked for advice about becoming a comedian someday, what would you tell him/her?

Dwight York: Like anything you want to do well in life at–be it sports or rocket science or stand-up comedy–to become accomplished requires hard work and dedication.  If you think that stand-up comedy is something you’d like to try, by all means give it a shot.  Once you get up on stage trying to make people laugh you’ll know right away if it’s something you want to pursue.  If it is, write always and get on stage whenever you can.

Skyline Comedy: What other projects are you hoping to get going someday?

Dwight York: I currently have two writing projects in the works. I’m writing a magazine-type article about my recent experience–more like an adventure–where I brought my comedy show to the main stage at The Legendary Buffalo Chip Campground for this summer’s Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.  I was on the very same stage that Stephen Tyler fell off of the very next night. I did a short comedy set between Tesla and Hinder for a crowd of at least 15,000.  Again, it was an adventure with some painful moments, some dangerous weather, and I hope it gets lots of laughs. It’s about halfway done.

Skyline Comedy: Last parting words for Appleton?

Dwight York: The Skyline Comedy Cafe is my favorite comedy club. That is why I chose to have my CD recorded here. Appleton has the best crowds and the club has the best layout for providing a great atmosphere place to enjoy live stand-up at its best. I hope you like jokes, and I hope to see you soon!

That ends this prelude to Dwight York’s main event this week at the Skyline. But come on back every week for exclusive sneak peeks at comedy’s biggest, freshest names.

Dwight York Online

Dwight on MySpace

VIDEOS

(920) 734-JOKE (5653)   |  Skyline Comedy Official

Ryan Hamilton: STAND-UP SUPERMAN TAKES COMIC CHARISMA TO NEW HEIGHTS

Watching Ryan Hamilton work a room is a lot like reaching the climax in a Superman movie.  That moment of triumph where the good guy gets his prize.

Prize, in Ryan’s case, being the ripple of genuine, unconstrained laughter that fires from skeptical front-row club patrons to the hordes of rambunctious birthday and bachelorette party celebrants sitting in back.

In fact, when Ryan takes the stage – whether it’s on Comedy Central’s “Live at Gotham,” NBC’s “Last Comic Standing” or America’s best live comedy joints – it’s like witnessing the next stand-up star being born. (He did win Sierra Mist’s “America’s Next Great Comic” search…)

Recently named one of Rolling Stone’s “Top Five Comics to Watch,” Ryan takes comic charisma to new heights, and finds humor in the most unlikely places. With a signature smirk and cleverly written sets, the comedian delivers original, lively life snapshots (from the ludicrous nature of naked cats to politely turning down drug dealers.) He brings it all to Skyline Comedy Cafe this week Wednesday through Saturday (September 16 – 19).

We caught up with the funny guy on the road late last week to give you a sneak-peek introduction. We kicked this Q & A off with a little fill in the blank:

1) Right now it’s [2:08 p.m.]. I’m [listening to music on my laptop at the Holiday Inn Express in Cleveland (that's the heart of Rock and Roll according to Huey Lewis, and the heart of business lunches according to me). But secretly I wish I was in Cincinnati at a Marriott TownePlace Suites - That's livin'!

2. When I'm not onstage making America laugh, you're most likely to catch me [watching other people onstage making America laugh.  Is that depressing?]

3. I went into stand-up [8 years ago because I lost my real job. My family and friends still don't know].

4. As a kid I was [quiet and shy and awkward. As an adult, I'm just quiet and awkward].

5. I can’t wait to get in front of crowds at Skyline because [what's not to be excited about?! It's Wisconsin, baby!]

Skyline Comedy: All right, enough of that. Pressing on…  Are you prone to the sort of “people watching” observational stand-up comedy, or what kind of show do you put on?

Ryan Hamilton: I would say yes I do some observational comedy, and I also do some longer stories.  It’s a good time. I hope people walk away from the show thinking ‘I didn’t stop laughing’ and there was something for everyone.

Skyline Comedy: Some people force themselves to sit down and write, and some scrawl ideas down on napkins when it hits them. When, where and how do you find your material?

Ryan Hamilton: I do a combination of all of the above. Sometimes I’ll sit down and write until I get something that I think is funny. Other times, something will come to me that I feel I can just talk about on stage.  I do have a lot of napkins that I keep tucked inside of notebooks.

Skyline Comedy: Speaking of material. You did this hilarious bit on “Live at Gotham” about how you look like a white Chris Rock, and you can just see (and hear) it click for people, like “He so does!” Did you get that comparison a lot, and ever meet Chris?

Ryan Hamilton: Ha, actually I rarely get that comparison, but someone did tell me about my Chris Rock face and it seemed to work. I live in fear that Chris Rock knows that I do that joke and does not approve. Everyone tells me I am delusional, but I’ve been around him a couple times and noticed him eye-balling me.  Once I had the chance to sit across from him and ended up leaving early because I got nervous. I still regret that.  He seems like a very nice, approachable guy.  Once I was sitting in the front row of the audience at a Letterman taping, and Chris Rock was a guest.  I found it weird that we were both wearing the exact same sweater.  That’s true. Exactly the same. That’s weird, right?  It made me very uncomfortable.

Skyline Comedy: Your sets are pretty squeaky clean, sort of ’suitable for all audiences.’ Still, have you ever “offended” anyone during a show or had a particularly crazy experience with crowds over the years?

Ryan Hamilton: I’m sure I’ve probably offended someone sometime; although, I think I’m a friendly comedian. I don’t think anyone can do comedy for a reasonable amount of time without, at some point, offending someone on some level.  Everyone has their own take on my perspective and may or may not agree with me, even though I don’t make any political statements or much social commentary. Once someone threatened to hit me on stage because, in response to a heckle, I said something the rest of the audience loved and really must’ve embarrassed him, because he lost his cool.  It was intense for a minute, but that kind of thing is very rare, especially at my shows, and I don’t seek it out.

Skyline Comedy: People always wonder, ‘what does it really take to be a great comedian?’ What are your thoughts? and who are some of the ‘greats’ to you?

Ryan Hamilton: I think great comedians combine a natural comedic mind, a strong desire to be a comedian, and the discipline to work hard despite being alone.  Also, it can require being on the road constantly and out at night for years and years, which may not fit into some people’s lives–Those people are called ‘normal.’  Some of the great comedians I look to include Bill Cosby for his completely comfortable, natural, and effortless approach; Steve Martin for his ability to make silly smart; Jerry Seinfeld for his commitment to perfecting a joke; and Brian Regan for capturing such a diverse audience while employing a very unique voice and material.

Skyline Comedy: If you had to write a classified ad… to sell yourself, what would it say?

Ryan Hamilton: “Slightly used comedian available for shows. I never thought it would come to this. Please, I am lost. Help me.”

Skyline Comedy: Classifieds have that maximum character count thing going on, similar to the Twitter phenomenon, which comedians seem to be jumping on recently.  Are you into the social networking revolution?

Ryan Hamilton: I have a Facebook page that I use regularly.  I have yet to Twitter…at least online.  I do find the opportunities the internet provides a comedian valuable, and I have a couple of projects coming out soon I’m excited about and very proud of.

Skyline Comedy: All right…any parting words or other projects fans ought to know about before you hit Appleton?

Ryan Hamilton: I am developing a car that runs on stealing away people’s anxiety and stress and a power generator that converts people’s worst fears into clean electricity. Watch for those.

Ryan on Comedy Central

Ryan Online

On MySpace

VIDEO CLIPS

Here concludes this weekly written broadcast of the best, freshest names in stand-up from Skyline Comedy Cafe headquarters in Appleton, WI. C’mon back next week for our expose on comic Dwight York!

(920) 734-JOKE (5653)   |   Skyline Comedy Official

James Johann: ‘KEEP IT RURAL’

James Johann needed a hook.

Something to make the small-town comic stand out among all the other white guys in ball caps infiltrating comedy clubs, trying to make America laugh. “There’s a lot of white guys in ball caps out there,” James says in his signature, friendly drawl.

James and his crew made a list of potentials, and one shtick stood out. “It was about this kid from the Midwest who thinks he’s this know-it-all, and doesn’t really know much,” James says.

Years later, James’s “Rural Genius” persona has taken the Kansas native from local clubs to theater stages, from radio spots and gigs at the Montreal Just for Laughs Comedy Festival to CMT and Comedy Central. And, around the country on blue-collar comedy tours with Larry the Cable Guy and Jeff Foxworthy.  More “brain” than profane, James’s infectiously sweet Midwestern charm, paired with his penchant for exploring universal themes of failure, endlessly wins fans over across the board.

Packing up for a Labor Day weekend camping trip Friday, just  a few days before his special event week run at Skyline Comedy Cafe in Appleton Sept. 9 – 12, the veteran comedian chatted about his rural upbringing (laden with bad haircuts, country music and heavy doses of Catholic school), and why fans shouldn’t hesitate to sit front-row at one of his shows…

Skyline Comedy: Back to Appleton…What do you like about playing up here?

James Johann: Oh yeah, it’s probably my 10th or so time. It’s a great club, first off…Even when clubs are doing slower business in the summer, it always seems full up.  Appleton’s not a bad town, either. I’ve been out a few times.  I don’t remember much, but I had fun.

Skyline Comedy: Nice. Well what should people know first before coming out to your show?

James Johann: A lot of times people don’t wanna sit in the front row at a comedy club. They’re afraid the comic’s gonna pick on them, be mean. My act’s very much about me or my family; nobody should feel like that’s gonna happen. I never really had that trouble at Skyline. At others, lots of people are leery.  I just make fun of myself…and my family, because they’re not there (laughs).

Skyline Comedy: Does family ever check out your shows, or is that kind of an uncomfortable thing?

James Johann: My dad comes once in a while. One time the emcee introduced him, made him stand up, and my dad hated that.  Other than that… My dad won’t sit in the front row, let’s put it that way.

Skyline: Let’s talk about this ‘Rural Genius’ aspect. What’s it really all about?

James Johann: ‘Rural Genius’ is something I normally do on radio, the call-in thing. I give advice.  I’m kind of a doctor of hillbilly. And I give really bad advice to people to try to help them, but usually it doesn’t work out the way I want it to. I started doing it just in Kansas City, around the Midwest…

Skyline Comedy: And CMT has a whole section of ‘Rural Genius’ videos, we saw…

James Johann: Yeah, I make videos for CMT on their Web site. A couple they’ve actually run on CMT. It’s set where I grew up. I grew up in Paola, Kansas, a small little town that makes Appleton look huge. I still make some videos from time to time…  It’s cool because I look at them and they’re right next to these big artists.  Like they put it up on the side next to the Bon Jovi video. It’s kinda cool seeing my face up there with famous people.

Skyline Comedy: How did the whole persona come to be, and…do you ever get sick of doing it?

James Johann: That’s a good questions (laughs).  Actually, I was looking for kind of something of a hook to make me stand out a bit.  We wrote a list of things about me, and this was the one my manager picked out. About this kid from the Midwest who thinks he’s this know-it-all and doesn’t really know that much. We developed it and have run with it ever since. It’s funny, I’ve been doing comedy about 20 years under my name, and there’s some that remember me from then. More have remembered ‘Rural Genius’ than anything.  It has caught on quickly. So I guess it was a good call on that.  And, well, CMT like it, liked the idea of it, and wanted to start videos of it. So that’s one thing that helped, that country music TV was interested in it…Sometimes I do ‘Rural Genius’ in my set, sometimes not. I’ve got a whole stand-up set with out the ‘Rural Genius’ stuff. Maybe I’ll read a letter or two. But, it’s the only thing that’s been catching on; it’s the name of the tour…

Skyline Comedy: Speaking of tours, you’ve got to do some touring on the blue-collar comedy route, with Larry the Cable Guy and Jeff Foxworthy…how was it?

James Johann: I learned a lot. I’ll tell ya.  I met Larry when he was still in the clubs, selling out the clubs, but people were lined up around the building to see him. We knew it wouldn’t be long before he moved out to theaters. It’s interesting to watch someone go from ‘club comic’ to the level where he is now. I was there for that transformation. They’re both the nicest guys I’ve ever worked with. They’re just like they are on stage off stage.  It taught me about the stamina it takes.  He’d pull in at 4 in the afternoon, sign autographs, do all the pre-show stuff, then an hour and a half show and he’s up till 2 or 3 a.m. with fans. He’s just with people all time.  I learned a lot about what it takes, that stamina you have to have to keep it going.  It’s not like us comics who perform for an hour a night and go back to bed. I learned a lot from Jeff, too, working theaters…They’re good guys.

Skyline Comedy: Where are the places you most looking forward to performing. Any place where you go over really well?

James Johann: I do the best in the Midwest.  I’ve been to L.A. and New York; I do OK there. But I’m kind of a novelty.  I’m really just honest; it’s about my life and my relationships, so I do the best in the Midwest. And that’s from Skyline all the way down to Texas. Any club like (Skyline) that has good consistent crowds, staff. Good, fun places to work I enjoy the most. I’ve been to places where you’re just passing through and want to get the show done and get outta there.

Skyline Comedy: Touring…does the experience change quite a bit from before to after you have a family?

James Johann: Oh, it’s changed a lot. When I was younger, 22, I would jump in the car and didn’t care if I was gone 6 weeks, 8 weeks in a row, sleeping in my car. Now I wanna go out, get home and see my daughter.

Skyline Comedy: Any other projects in the works we should be on the lookout for?

James Johann: I do a lot of writing as well. I’m looking forward to having a comedy-style book to sell soon.  As far as anything out, people can check out my stuff on CMT and Sirius. There are some videos on my Web site. (laughs) It’s funny. My brother, Jason–if it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t even have email.

James Johann Online

“Rural Genius” on CMT

On Comedy Central

Videos

The James Johann , but you can nab exclusive interviews every week with the best, freshest names in biz right here, BEHIND THE MIC, before they hit the stage at your Skyline Comedy Cafe.

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