ucb – Page 12 – The Comedy Bureau

Morning Debriefing 3/15/11

1) The Bridgetown Comedy Festival (@bridgetown on Twitter) in Portland (it’s a big festival that relatively close to LA) has been officially announced!!! I.E. April 21st-24th with some of LA’s best including Kyle Kinane, Brent Weinbach, James Adomian, Jimmy Dore, Moshe Kasher, Mike Phirman, Jan Davidson, and much more!!! More details to come as we get them here at the Comedy Bureau.

2) #HigherStakesChildrensBooks-hilarious way to get through Tuesday on Twitter. Follow this hashtag to find stuff like this “@pattonoswalt Blueberries for Salo: 120 Day of Sodom” (may or may not be NSFW)

3) What to Watch/DVR This Week via Splitsider

4) Want to win guest spot on the Longshot Podcast w/Eddie Pepitone, Sean Conroy, Jamie Flam, and Amber Kenny? Make a video and you could be famous* (*amongst comedy nerds)

5) This Town is Big Enough for the Both of Us… and Even More-where the new comedy haunts in LA are.

6) Tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL
The Good Luck Show @ The Good Luck Bar 7:30PM FREE
Out of the Wheelhouse @ Palms Bar 7:30PM FREE/$10 drink min.
Alonzo Bodden @ Comedy & Magic Club 8PM $15/2 drink min.
Comedy Death Ray @ UCB Theatre 8:30PM $5 (stand by only)
Lower Crust Comedy @ Genghis Cohen 9PM $6
Holy Fuck! @ Downtown Independent Theater 9PM FREE

7) OPEN MIC RUN
BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE TOKYO @ SEÑOR FISH 422 E. 1st, Los Angeles, CA (downtown)/Sign-up 6:30PM/Starts 7PM
TRIBAL CAFE 1651 W. Temple St., Los Angeles, CA (Echo Park)/Sign-up 7:30PM/Starts 8PM
COFFEE GALLERY 2029 Lake Ave., Altadena, CA/Starts 8PM
WESTWOOD BREWCO 1097 Glendon Ave., Westwood, CA/Sign-up (lottery) 7:30PM/Starts 8PM

8) Gilbert Gottfried got fired from Aflac as their spokesperson through tweeting what were deemed as offensive jokes about the recent disaster in Japan. Given the current state of the insurance industry, I’m pondering when they started caring about image?

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A Seriously Funny Interview with Comedian, Parks and Recreation Writer Harris Wittels.

March 15, 2011

Uncategorized

behind the scenes, comedian, harris wittels, insider, interview, nbc, parks and recreation, ucb

A Seriously Funny Interview with Comedian, Parks and Recreation Writer Harris Wittels.

This Town is Big Enough for the Both of Us… and Even More

Much of what we feature and write about here at the Comedy Bureau often takes place in a out of the way bars, coffee shops, garages, or even someone’s living room, in a few cases, as those are the places where we go to find our particular taste in comedy (also, most of the shows are free, which is a great incentive). Yet, I understand that might be an intimidating notion for some people to go to a show where there is no stage, where the couch that you’re sitting on is perhaps where someone sleeps or where “the magic happens”. Perhaps, you might think that it’s just a bunch of no-talent open mic’ers doing their own show on their “own turf”. Rest assured that is not the case as plenty of comics on “those” line-ups are regularly on TV, paid to perform on the road, and are a part of an ultra-competitive comedy scene.

Thanks to both Jamie Flam, the new manager of the Hollywood Improv Lab, and Chris Hardwick, Jonah Ray, Matt Mira, and everyone else over at the Nerdist podcast for slowly, but surely revamping the back room of Meltdown Comics in Hollywood into the Nerdist Theatre, this really unique and specific problem has been now solved.

Over the past month and in the month to come, there has been a nice streak of shows popping up at both venues. First off, brilliant comedians Eddie Pepitone and Glenn Wool did their own special shows at the Improv Lab and while the back room of Meltdown Comics has had the fantastic Meltdown with Jonah Ray and Kumail Nanjiani (recently profiled on Last Call with Carson Daly) for awhile, the Nerdist Podcast has taken to sponsoring several comedy events from a special screening of Black Dynamite, a comedy art show, and a special night of Pop and Politics with comedian Jimmy Dore.

Not too long ago, the awareness of both rooms was largely peripheral as shows and events, especially the kind featured here at the Comedy Bureau, would take place sporadically. Being at the Improv Lab and the back room of Meltdown was largely viewed by a number of people as sort of an abstract idea, almost as if it was weird to put on a show there. Last year, I heard a show producer at the Improv say, “Wait, we’re not at the Lab, right? If we are, we’re screwed. No one’s going to come.” At that time, approximately two years earlier, there would be, in a given week, only one or two shows at the Lab and maybe zero happening at Meltdown Comics. In a city where a line-up at the South by Southwest Arts Festival is a typical Monday night, anyone from normal people who love to laugh and comedy fans didn’t think much of a show taking place at either venue.

Now, the legitimacy for the two institutions keeps growing as solid establishments for live comedy as many of their shows and line-ups are not unlike those of the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre considered by many to be one of the most popular venues in LA. Instead of the occasional stand up comedy showcase that used to rarely take place, the Improv Lab is now having variety shows, interview shows, sketch and improv shows, and one show where some of LA’s best do their first five minutes they’ve ever written. The Nerdist Theatre might even have a weekly open mic in the works hosted by their very own Matt Mira (details to come as the Comedy Bureau receives them) in the coming months. According to the Comedy Bureau “standards and practices”, those are bona fide comedy theatre that need to be attended regularly, not only to keep their doors open, but also because where you can see, in this humble blog’s/site’s opinion, where live comedy is going.

Morning Debriefing 3/14/11

1) One Two Punch, really an in-home live comedy experience, is one of those events that sounds amazing on paper, then absolutely exceeds expectations thanks to the one and only Barbara Gray. Here’s a fraction of a slice of a bit of how awesome a comedy show in your living room can be in the form of a few pictures by liezlwashere.

2) Though there’s plenty happening in town, A Reggie Watts Interview w/BajillionHits.biz’s Alex Blagg at SXSW would have sure been nice to be a part of…

3) If you happened to catch the vastly under publicized special “Mash-Up” on Comedy Central featuring stand-up, re-enactments of jokes, sketches, etc. this past Friday, here’s the story of how came to be from the formerly Chicago based comedy tank, The Blerds. [via Connected Comedy]

4) Tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL
Are You F*#king Kidding Me? @ Puka Bar 7:30PM FREE
What’s Up Tiger Lily? @ Hollywood Studio Bar & Grill 8PM FREE
Stand Up Saloon: Bowser’s Birthday Edition @ Old Towne Pub 8PM FREE
Keep It Clean Comedy @ 1739 Public House 10PM FREE
Stand Up Spotlight: TJ Miller @ UCB Theatre 11PM $5

5) OPEN MIC RUN-check back here as this is updated throughout the day
RED ROCK 8782 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, CA/Starts 7PM/multiple sets allowed/$5 min.
CLUB 705 705 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, CA/Starts 7PM-ish
JAKE’S 38 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA/Sign-up (lottery) 7:30PM/Starts 8PM
D’AMORE’S 8369 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles, CA/Sign-up (lottery) 8PM/Purchase required

6) I’m so entrenched in comedy that I had no idea that St. Patrick’s Day was happening until someone cracked a joke about it.

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Morning Debriefing 3/13/11

1) My goodness, The Comedy Garage (@thecomedygarage) has a documentary about them! Watch out for it’s release on March 15th on Indieflix!

2) Proof that “college kids” are plenty dumb: College Humor’s Top 100 Comedy Movies of All Time (ranked by vote). In the top 10 OF ALL TIME: The Hangover, Anchorman, The 40-Year Old Virgin, Happy Gilmore, Dodgeball. I know we try to maintain an air of professionalism here at the Comedy Bureau, but WHAT THE FUCK!?!? Sidenote: my college degree feels even worth less.

3) The Greater LA Open Mic Map-UPDATED! You’re welcome very much…

4) Tip of the Hat: Megan Amram

5) Tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL-eat your heart out South by Southwest
#hashtag @ Bar Lubitsch 7PM FREE
ASSSSCAT @ UCB Theatre 7:30PM FREE
Comedy Barre @ Barre Vermont 8PM FREE/2 drink min.
Pajama Party! @ Gaylord Apartments 8PM FREE
French Toast @ Taix 8:30PM FREE
Powerviolence @ The Complex 8:30PM FREE
Chatterbox Comedy @ Chatterbox 943 Citrus Ave., Covina, CA 9PM FREE
Set List @ Flappers 9PM $10/2 drink min.
Top Story Weekly @ iO West 9PM $5
The Sunday Sunday Sunday Show @ The Improv Space 9:30PM FREE

6) OPEN MIC RUN
PALMS 8572 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA/Starts 6PM
SUNSET GRILL 7439 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA/Starts 7PM/one item min.
SAL’S COMEDY HOLE 7356 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA/Starts 6PM/$5 min.
MARTY’S/THE OPEN MIC 7351 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA (walk up Martel past Big Mama’s and Papa’s)/5PM to 11PM/$5/multiple sets allowed

7) That’s right, we’re not at SXSW. We’re here for you fine folks both in, for, and with comedy in Los Angeles. On a separate note, anyone have passes for Just for Laughs Montreal coming up?

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March 13, 2011

Uncategorized

bbc, best, comedy shows, dave holmes, los angeles, maria bamford, megan amram twitter, mtv, target, ucb

robdelaney:

THURSDAY (St. Patrick’s Day) at the UCB: Come see me, Dave Holmes, Maria Bamford, Megan Amram & Sharon Horgan, co-writer & star of my FAVORITE comedy series, the BBC’s “Pulling.” I am SHITTING that Sharon Horgan is doing our show because she’s such a brilliant comet. Our show is always fun, but this one will be bananas. My oldest comedy pal Dave Holmes who taught me how to be funny, candidate for most amazing living writer Megan Amram, towering space genius Maria Bamford, and the dangerous legend to whom I look for spiritual comedic guidance, Sharon Horgan. I am straight up jizzing all over the place. I hope you will come see us and do the same. I’d be grateful to anyone who reposted this.

TICKETS

GO TO THIS!!!

Morning Debriefing 3/12/11

1) Have you gotten your Scoomie’s ballot yet? Vote on your favorite open mic’ers in the Greater Los Angeles Area at the hyperlink before 6 PM Monday March 28th.

2) Nerdist Theater dates at Meltdown Comics. Uhh, yeah, you shouldn’t miss any of these really…

3) Another way you can see Greg Proops: Odd News on Yahoo.

4) The Comedy Bureau “Tips Its Hat” to Megan Amram for all her gut-busting excellence on Twitter. Article/Profile to follow soon.

5) ON THE HORIZON
John Oliver New York Stand Up Show on Comedy Central Mar. 24th
TJ Miller @ Hollywood Improv Saturday April 16th 10PM $20/2 drink min.
One Hour of Mayhem with TJ Miller @ Comedy Central Stages Wednesday March 23rd 8PM FREE

6) Tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL
The Anytime Show w/Dominic Dierkes @ Smodcastle 8PM $8
One-Two Punch @ Benton Manor 8PM $2 suggested donation
Magic Bag @ Smodcastle 10PM $8
The Back Room @ UCB Theatre 10PM $10 (stand by only)
The Tomorrow Show w/Ron Lynch @ Steve Allen Theater MIDNIGHT $8

7) OPEN MIC RUN
SPOT CAFE 4455 Overland Ave., Culver City, CA/Starts 2PM/people usually give feedback at end of set
SAL’S COMEDY HOLE 7356 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA/Starts 6PM/one item min.
WESTSIDE COMEDY THEATRE 1323-A 3rd St., Santa Monica, CA (in alley between 3rd and 4th St.)/Sign-Up 6PM/Starts 6:30PM
SUNSET GRILL 7439 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA/Starts 7PM/one item min.
MARTY’S/THE OPEN MIC 7351 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA/5PM to 11PM/$5/multiple sets allowed

8) Note to anyone doing Sendai Earthquake/Tsunami jokes on stage: for at least a week or two, most audience members will be against you.

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Morning Debriefing 3/11/11

1) Once again, congratulations to James Adomian landing a role on an NBC pilot!

2) MORE GOOD NEWS!!! Comedy Central is developing Paul F. Tompkins’ scripted show Evil Genius!!! [via Deadline]

3) Not sure where he’s going with this story/novel, but perhaps comedian Steven Wright is purposely playing against type. Follow him @stevenwright and find out.

4) The Ultimate Free & Cheap LA Comedy List 3/13-3/19. Thanks Wisepix.

5) Mash-Up is finally here, though at midnight, it’s here w/Matt Braunger, Hannibal Buress, Kyle Kinane, Kumail Nanjiani, and Host TJ Miller on Comedy Central! Jay Larson’s Comedy Central Special right before at 11:30PM.

5) On Monday Mar. 7th, there was the Battle of 1739 (Public House), here’s some video of comedian Sean Green murdering one of the hecklers, if you can only imagine just being there…

6) Tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL
Timeline B (Sax Carr’s CD Recording) @ Meltdown Comics 7PM FREE
Risk! True Tales Boldly Told! @ UCB Theatre 8PM $5
Patton Oswalt @ Galaxy Theatre 8PM $25
Featuring @ Hollywood Improv Lab 8:30PM $5
The Also-Ran Comedy Hour @ Hollywood Improv Lab 10:30PM $5
The Garfunkel and Oates Hour @ UCB Theatre 11PM $5

7) OPEN MIC RUN
SET LIST @ FLAPPERS BAR 102 E. Magnolia, Burbank, CA/Sign-up 5PM/given set list to improv off of
iCANDY 1708 E. Broadway, Long Beach, CA/Sign-up 6PM/Starts 7PM/$3 min.
SILVERLAKE LOUNGE 2906 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA (Silverlake)/Sign-up (lottery) 6:30PM/Starts 7PM
MAX BLOOM’S 200 N. Malden Ave., Fullerton, CA/Starts 7PM
GLENDALE DAYS INN 450 N. Pioneer Dr., Glendale, CA/Starts 8PM

8) On cracking jokes about the Tsunami in Japan-RT @joshcomers When tragedy strikes, jokes on Twitter feel like weird tumbleweeds.

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March 7, 2011

Uncategorized

ahm mingus, comedy show, los angeles, m bar, mtv, ridiculousness, rob delaney, steve agee, story telling show, twitter, ucb

publicschoolshow:

Your Public School theme:

CRINGE : tales of social woes, mild-to-severe embarrassment, and mistakes that were made.

TOMORROW!

RSVP

This magnificent art was done by Tully Mills

Morning Debriefing 3/7/11

1) NY Comedian Mike DeStefano was just reported of having died of a heart attack. Though this site is mostly dedicated to LA, our condolences go to a comedian that overcame and brought laughter to many though his unflinching honesty.

2) Last night, I took part in my first roast and unfortunately most of my act deals with roasting myself, which is the angle that I took while dishing out insults. I’m pretty sure the only person that appreciates this approach is the guest of honor being roasted, to all those planning on partaking in a roast in the near future.

3) The LA Times thinks its great that Aziz Ansari thinks Kumail Nanjiani is really funny.

4) Tip of the Hat: Ron Lynch

5) Tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL
What’s Up Tiger Lily? @ Hollywood Studio Bar & Grill 8PM FREE
4 & 20 @ All Star Lanes 8PM FREE
Tig Notaro Has Friends Taping @ ACME Comedy Theatre 8PM FREE (RSVP after link)
Keep It Clean Comedy @ 1739 Public House 10PM FREE
Crash Test @ UCB Theatre 11PM $5

5) OPEN MIC RUN
CLUB 705 705 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, CA/Starts 7PM-ish
JAKE’S 38 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA/Sign-up (lottery) 7:30PM/Starts 8PM
PUKA BAR 710 W. Willow St., Long Beach, CA/Sign-up 8PM/10 min.
HARLEM PLACE CAFE 124 W. 4th St. (in alley between Main and Spring St.)/Starts 8PM/e-mail speakeasyopenmic@gmail.com for spots
D’AMORE’S 8369 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles, CA/Sign-up (lottery) 8PM/Purchase required
GROUND ZERO CAFE 615 Childs Way, Los Angeles, CA (USC on campus nestled in between dorms near intersection of Figueroa and Exposition)/USC student Sign-up 9PM/Non Student Sign-up 9:15PM/Starts 9:30PM
MARTY’S/THE OPEN MIC 7351 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA (walk up Martel past Big Mama’s and Papa’s)/5PM to 11PM/$5 Cover/Free coffee & water.

6) I wonder if anybody reads this part or if this just look at the listing of shows.

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Morning Debriefing 3/5/11

1) One of my absolute favorite shows in town, The Super Serious Show, now has a youtube account so now ALL OF YOU can see just how damn fantastic it is. Check it here.

2) Comedian Neil Hamburger now has a rubber cartoon face available for purchase for all those times that you need a reminder of war can successfully be waged via Twitter against celebrities.

3) I’m not a big fan of reality TV and even a less of a fan of the monstrous “American Idol”, but when comedian Paul F. Tompkins recaps an episode of it, it’s actually entertaining to the point where I don’t feel that I’m dumbing myself down to enjoy myself.

4) One liner extraordinaire Jim Hamilton, according to him, will be on TV very soon. Details to follow as the Comedy Bureau gets them… from Jim himself (just follow @jim_hamilton like we do)

5) Three Minutes to Nothing-Why Comedy Contests are Largely a Waste of Everyone’s Time by the Comedy Bureau

6) Tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL
Two Milk Minimum @ Flappers Burbank 11:30AM $10/2 item min.
North Star Comedy Hour @ Michael Woolson Studio 8PM
The Anytime Show w/Dominic Dierkes @ Smodcastle 8PM $8
Magic Bag @ Smodcastle 8PM $8
Battleship Pretension @ Meltdown Comics 8PM $5
The Thrilling Adventure Hour @ Largo 8:30PM $25/sold-out, but tickets probably available at door
Midnight Show @ UCB Theatre MIDNIGHT $5 (stand by only)
The Tomorrow Show @ The Steve Allen Theater MIDNIGHT $8

8) Getting a business card from a girl because you’re “just that sad” still counts as getting a number, right?

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Morning Debriefing 3/4/11

1) Tig Notaro has friends. She also has a pilot taping. This taping is taking place at ACME Comedy Theatre Mon. Mar. 7th. She would really like it if you would come. Here are some more details about the taping of Tig and her friends. [via AST News]

2) It’s the last day for Scoomie Awards suggestions. That’s right, it’s the last chance to make a category for how much disdain you have for certain people at open mics in LA. Don’t miss out.

3) The Ultimate Free & Cheap LA Comedy List 3/6-3/12. Thanks Wisepix.

4) The Comedy Bureau “Tips Its Hat” this week to RON LYNCH!!! Article/Profile to follow soon.

5) I know it’s incredibly late, but my article about comedy competitions “Three Minutes to Nothing” IS on its way today, or at least I think so…

6) Tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL
Dead Authors @ UCB Theatre 6:30PM $5 (stand by only)
Two-Headed Beast @ Stories Books & Cafe 8PM FREE
Stood Up Friday Night: Wingman @ Moving Arts Theatre 10PM $5
First Fridays Variety Show @ Theatre Asylum 10:30PM $10
Red Velvet Comedy @ Hollywood Improv Lab 10:30PM $5

7) OPEN MIC RUN
SET LIST @ FLAPPERS BAR 102 E. Magnolia, Burbank, CA/Sign-up 5PM/given set list to improv off of
iCANDY 1708 E. Broadway, Long Beach, CA/Sign-up 6PM/Starts 7PM/$3 min.
SILVERLAKE LOUNGE 2906 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA (Silverlake)/Sign-up (lottery) 6:30PM/Starts 7PM
MAX BLOOM’S 200 N. Malden Ave., Fullerton, CA/Starts 7PM
TRINITY CHURCH 1015 California Ave., Santa Monica, CA/Starts 8PM/Must work clean
GLENDALE DAYS INN 450 N. Pioneer Dr., Glendale, CA/Starts 8PM

8) Anyone how actually thinks this is written in an actual office by a group of contributors, please keep thinking that. It makes me feel better about writing this on top of a mess of blankets on my couch.

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Morning Debriefing 3/3/11

1) The closest you’ll see Doug Stanhope to Los Angeles for a while is tonight at the San Jose Improv 8PM $25/2 item min. and this Saturday Mar. 5th at Velvet Jones in Santa Barbara 7PM $20. That is as close as he’s going to get.

2) The Scoomie Awards-an award show recognizing distinction in open mic comedians in LA is coming up soon and is taking suggestions for categories. Here are some of the best suggested categories so far–take note Comedy Awards. (Listed in alphabetical order by first name)

-The “I’m an F-18, Bro” Award for Overconfidence
Andrew N. Solmssen

-Best Post Show Karaoke Performance
Andy Peters

-Most Likely to Die Before the Scoomies
Dave Ross

-The Award for Slightly More Honest Than I’d Care For, Conversely Best Fictional Stage Life
-Best Reworking of Mitch Hedberg’s Persona
James Bruce

-The Robert Yasumura Up-and-Comer Award and Scholarship
Jeff Wattenhofer

-The “Getting the Light Means 5 More Minutes, Right?” Award
Jim Hegarty

-Most Likely to Have Killed at Flappers Prior to Attending Open Mic/Show Currently Bombing At
Joseph Larkin

-Kutest Komedy Kouple
Josh Androsky

-Best Potential Mug Shot
Julia Bensfield

-Most Likely to Sign Up But Leave Before It’s Their Turn….Award…..Good luck trying to get an acceptance speech
Marianne Sierk

-The Heavy Meta Award
-Obscure Referenciest
-The TMI Award
Matt Manser

-“Female Comic Under the Sway of Domineering, Abusive Ike Turner-like Impresario"
Moses Robinson

-Most-sogynist
-The "When the hell did YOU get funny??” Award
Paul Jay

-The “Wait–This Person Doesn’t Look Damaged at ALL, So Why is He/She Up There? Oh, Oh Wait. Oof. Nooow It Becomes Plain. This Person Makes Me Look Like the Picture of Mental Health. This is PAINful to Watch.” Award
-The “PLEASE Shut Up About How Much Porn You Watch And Pot You Smoke You Horny Perverted Runt Troll; We Guessed Already By Looking At You” Award
Robert Buscemi

-The Saddest Bear in The Forest of Depression Award
-The Goes to More Open Mics in a Week than You Do in a Month Award
-The Most Likely To Stop Doing Standup and Start Doing Improv Award
-The Dryhumps you when Drunk Award
-Lifetime Achivement
Ron Babcock

-The “My Cat Is My Stage Time at Home” Award
Shawn Carlow

-Most Likely to Thrive at Homelessness
Vanessa Ramos

3) Jen Kirkman’s new album “Hail to the Freaks” is coming soon. More details to come as soon as the Comedy Bureau receives them. Stay tuned.

4) DO NOT MISS THE PREMIERE OF MASH-UP ON COMEDY CENTRAL FRI. MAR. 11th AT MIDNIGHT W/TJ MILLER, MATT BRAUNGER, KYLE KINANE, KUMAIL NANJIANI, and HANNIBAL BURESS. YEAH, IT’S IN ALL CAPS. IT’S THAT IMPORTANT.

5) ON THE HORIZON
Jim Bruce’s Mustache @ The Gardenia Wed. Mar. 9th 8:30PM $5
One-Two Punch @ Benton Manor Sat. Mar. 12th 8PM $2 suggested donation (for chairs)
The Walsh Brothers Show @ UCB Theatre Mar. 26th MIDNIGHT $5

6) Tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL
Meat Art Show @ Meltdown Comics 7PM
Continuous Comedy @ Hollywood Laugh Factory 8PM $20/$30 VIP/2 item min.
Joe Wengert’s Stages of Adulthood @ UCB Theatre 8PM $5
Piñata @ Bang Studio 8PM $14
The Josh & Josh Show @ Bar Lubitsch 8:30PM FREE
Comedy is Dead @ Hollywood Forever Cemetery 9PM $15
How to Live with Chelsea Peretti @ UCB Theatre 9:30PM $5
Live!* at Carnegie Hall @ Hollywood Hotel 10PM FREE

7) OPEN MIC RUN
HOLLYWOOD HOTEL 1160 N. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles, CA/Starts 7PM
THE SANDWICH SPOT 3101 Ocean Park Ave., Santa Monica, CA/Starts 7PM
CAFE ON 2ND 7 S. 2nd St., Alhambra, CA/Sign-up 7PM/Starts 7:30PM/$3 cover/10 min. guaranteed
TKO SHOW @ 212 CAFE 212 Pier Ave., Santa Monica, CA/Starts 9PM

8) Anyone know how to put actual code for ads on Tumblr? It would be pretty great if this was my job and I’d keep everyone even MORE updated on everything LA comedy, wouldn’t it? Please e-mail thecomedybureau@gmail.com if you have tips/suggestions/help/etc.

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March 1, 2011

Uncategorized

birds of prey, comedy, comedy central, comedy death ray, emily maya mills, funny or die, lizzy cooperman, los angeles, susan burke, ucb

emilymayamills:

BIRDS OF PREY at COMEDY CENTRAL STAGE

tomorrow ~ wednesday ~ march 3rd ~ 8pm

6539 santa monica blvd ~ hollywood ~ 90038

susan burke ~ lizzy cooperman ~ emily maya mills

directed by joe wagner ~ photo by heather landis

reservations: (323) 960-5519

EVERYONE GO TO THIS PLEASE!!!

Morning Debriefing 2/27/11

1) 10 Comedians You Need to See This Year [via Crave Online/Sax Carr]. Say what you want about who is and isn’t on this list, but enjoyed reading this versus Comedy Central’s Comics to Watch a few months ago.

2) New Open Mic Tomorrow: D’amore’s-Monday, February 28th. D’Amore’s Pizza. 8369 W. 3rd St. Between Sweetzer and Orlando. Sign-up is 8:00pm – 8:15pm, lottery shortly thereafter. Purchase required. They’re gonna do a special. 2 slices for $3 dollars! See you there! Hosted by Jason Helfgott.

3) The Big Trouble in Little Tokyo. Ro Delle Grazie. Heather Thomson. New Tequilas at the bar? You betcha (subject to change). Señor Fish, 422. E. 1st St., Los Angeles, CA. This Tues. Mar. 1st.

4) Apparently, there is a “comedy scene” of sorts in Claremont. Investigation by the Comedy Bureau to come soon.

5) #Oscars and probably #banksy on Twitter will be watched by the Comedy Bureau on Twitter tonight. Rest assured, you will be entertained.

6) ON THE HORIZON
What’s Up Tiger Lily? Presents ON THE PULSE Showcase @ Hollywood Studio Bar & Grill Mon. Feb. 28th 8PM FREE
Merrill Davis and Friends @ Hollywood Improv Lab Sat. Mar. 26th 10:30PM $5
Pizza Party @ Puka Bar Thurs. Mar. 31st 9PM FREE

7) Tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL
ASSSSCAT @ UCB Theatre 7:30PM FREE
Powerviolence @ The Complex 8:30PM FREE
Top Story Weekly! @ iO West 9PM $5
Smug Shift @ UCB Theatre 9:30PM $5
Sunday Sunday Sunday-Oscars Schmoscars @ The Improv Space 9:30PM FREE
Deskpiece Nation @ iO West 10PM $5

8) OPEN MIC RUN
PALMS 8572 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA/Starts 6PM
SUNSET GRILL 7439 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA/Starts 7PM/one item min.
SAL’S COMEDY HOLE 7356 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA/Starts 6PM/one item min.
MARTY’S/THE OPEN MIC 7351 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA (walk up Martel past Big Mama’s and Papa’s)/5PM to 11PM/$5/multiple sets allowed

9) Much thanks to Matt Knudsen for his donation to the Comedy Bureau. I’ll be able to eat today.

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Morning Debriefing 2/25/11

1) OK, one more time: Comedy Central Presents Kyle Kinane tonight at 11PM. WATCH IT.

2) The Ultimate Free & Cheap LA Comedy List 2/27-3/5. Thanks Wisepix.

3) Follow @comedy_palace on Twitter because the Comedy Palace on the 2nd and 4th Thurs. because you should follow them for great offers on Chinese food and a fantastic live comedy show.

4) Kumail Nanjiani on Conan. Uhh, he kills it.

5) ON THE HORIZON
Greg Proops Smartest Man in the World LIVE @ Comedy Central Stages Wed. Mar. 9th 8PM FREE
An Evening with Eastbound & Down @ Paleyfest Thurs. Mar. 10th 7PM $10
Featuring @ Hollywood Improv Lab Fri. Mar. 11th 8:30PM $5

5) Tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL
Stand Up Spotlight: Dave Foley @ UCB Theatre 7PM $5 (stand by only)
Harland Williams @ Hollywood Improv 8PM $20/2 item min.
Jackie Kashian @ Flappers Burbank 8PM/10PM $17/2 drink min.
Jeff Ross’ Roast in Peace @ Comedy Store 8:30PM $20/2 drink min. (sold out)
Greg Proops @ The Ice House 8:30PM/10:30PM $17.50/2 item min.
Stand Up Showcase @ 3rd St. Promenade Playhouse 9PM $12
Comedy Car Hole @ Comedy Car Hole 9PM FREE
Stood Up Friday Night: Story Time @ Moving Arts Theatre 10PM $5
YooHoo Late Night @ Flappers YooHoo Room 11PM $5/2 drink min.
Midnight Madness @ Hollywood Laugh Factory MIDNIGHT $20/$30 VIP/2 drink min.

6) OPEN MIC RUN
SET LIST @ FLAPPERS BAR 102 E. Magnolia, Burbank, CA/Sign-up 5PM
iCANDY 1708 E. Broadway, Long Beach, CA/Sign-up 6PM/Starts 7PM/$3 min.
SILVERLAKE LOUNGE 2906 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA (Silverlake)/Sign-up (lottery) 6:30PM/Starts 7PM
MAX BLOOM’S 200 N. Malden Ave., Fullerton, CA/Starts 7PM
GLENDALE DAYS INN 450 N. Pioneer Dr., Glendale, CA/Starts 8PM

7) Recently: will now become a separate daily post relating relevant, trending, or odd news items with clips of comedy.

8) Congratulations to comedians Adam Rank and Tim Palmer for placing in the 21st Ultimate Laffdown.

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This Night of the Super Serious Show Was Almost Beyond Description (almost)

February 24, 2011

Uncategorized

andres dubouchet, comedian, comedy, conan, culver city, dana gould, jimmy pardo, kiss from daddy, los angeles, reggie watts, sarah silverman, super serious show, ucb

This Night of the Super Serious Show Was Almost Beyond Description (almost)

Wonder What You Missed at the Walsh Bros. Show?

January 28, 2011

Uncategorized

the walsh brothers, ucb

Wonder What You Missed at the Walsh Bros. Show?

Correct Answer: The Rest of Your Life

Here’s some photos of in case you missed The Walsh Brothers this past Tues.

Post Brunch Update 1/7/11

1) Due to time constraints and the limits of my own physical abilities, despite personal disregard for my own well being, the Comedy Bureau Morning Debriefing/Post Brunch Update will now be abbreviated to feature all things LA Comedy that need to be posted as early as possible. As such, more involved, intensive articles, reviews, write-ups, opinion pieces, etc. will be featured separately in its own individual post like today’s review of last night’s amazing “Fifty First Jokes” in a few hours.

2) Tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL has nothing to do with any massive numbers of birds dying or any other signs of a apocalpyse, so that’s enough reason right there to go. Bob’s Burgers @ Largo-The Coronet Theatre 8PM $20, Garfunkel and Oates @ UCB Theatre 8PM $10 (stand by only), Norm MacDonald @ Hollywood Improv 8PM $20, Stood Up Friday Night @ Moving Arts Theatre 10PM $5.

3) OPEN MIC RUN: iCANDY 1708 E. Broadway, Long Beach, CA/Sign-up 6PM/Starts 7PM/$3 min., TRICLOPS @ SILVERLAKE LOUNGE 2906 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA (silverlake)/Sign-up (lottery) 6:30PM/Starts 7PM, GLENDALE DAYS INN 450 N. Pioneer Dr., Glendale, CA/Starts 8PM, TRINITY CHURCH OPEN MIC 1015 California Ave., Santa Monica, CA/Starts 8PM/must work clean, SAPPHIRE LOUNGE @ NEWPORT BEACH RADISSON 4545 Macarthur Blvd., Newport Beach, CA/Starts 9PM/msg David Marley on Facebook to sign-up, MARTY’S/THE OPEN MIC 7351 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA (walk up Martel past Big Mama’s and Papa’s)/5PM to 11PM/$5/multiple sets allowed.

4) The Ultimate Free & Cheap List 1/9-1/16. Thanks Wisepix.

5) Tonight at Gallery 1988 7PM, “Is This Thing On?” debuts scores of artists and their take on some of the most prolific and popular comedians of the current moment (i.e. there’s a painting of Louis CK as a zombie.)

6) Marc Maron and the WTF Podcast was just featured in the New York Times yesterday, which people hopefully don’t attach to the simultaneous death of hundreds of birds just a few days ago like my Dad does (Dad’s opinion of Maron “He seems angry. Hmmmm.”) Just read it. It’s important.

7) The Comedy Bureau “Tips Its Hat” today to SHAWN PEARLMAN “@shawnpearlman It’s 10PM. Do you know where my watch is?” Shawn has some of the best, sharpest one liners in Los Angeles and you shouldn’t miss a chance to catch his cleverness. Website. Twitter. Check back at the Comedy Bureau for upcoming dates.

8) From the “You Should Have Been There” Lagoon: Josh Fadem Stand Up Pratfalls

9) Donate to the Comedy Bureau. That is… if you ever want to laugh again. (*note: I have no ability to make people incapable of laughter).

10) I’m on a show tonight that has a theme of “Happily Ever After”. The fact that I’m on a show with that theme is hilarious.

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Morning Debriefing 1/4/11

1) Within the realm of the open mics, I’ve found the “mixed mic” to be the best type to actually try out material. Speakeasy Open Mic @ Harlem Place Cafe on Mondays is a perfect example of that as their “mixed mic” brings all sorts of poets, musicians, and comedians such as myself all to one place to share. Instead of falling victim to being a horrid doldrum to be “subjected to’, as many open mics have come to be, the "mixed mic” in general has enough variety in forms of artistic expression that the audience’s attention doesn’t tire out. At Harlem Place Cafe, there were over 40 people comprised of several spoken word poets (some were actually pretty good, a rare thing at open mics), musicians, and the one comedian for the evening, myself. Though transitioning from heavy-handed intended-to-be-life-affirming spoken word poetry to comedy can be quite tricky, people, for the most part, were willing listeners and as a result I had a pretty good set and more importantly, fun, as opposed to the typical obsessing over the response of group of self-centered comics on a weekday night. Thus, Speakeasy Open Mic is another “Bureau Approved” open mic. Speakeasy Open Mic takes place every Mon. at 8PM at the Harlem Place Cafe 124 W. 4th St. in Downtown Los Angeles (in alley between Spring and Main St.). To guarantee a spot (it does get pretty crowded), sign up in advance via e-mail at speakeasyopenmic@gmail.com.

2) What a COMEDY CRAWL for tonight that you shouldn’t miss with some of the best shows in time at what is for me affordable (FREE) and for others a ridiculously great deal: Comedy Death Ray @ UCB Theatre 8:30PM $5 (stand by only), Holy Fuck @ Downtown Independent Theater 9PM FREE, Chatroulette LIVE! @ UCB Theatre 11PM $5, Dog & Pony Show @ Bar Lubitsch 8PM FREE, Amuse and Abuse @ Esquire Bar & Lounge 1 Year Anniversary 8:30PM FREE.

3) OPEN MIC RUN: PALMS 8572 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA/Sign-up 4:30PM/Starts 5PM, BACK HOME IN LAHAINA (call 310 835 4014 before going) 519 E. Carson St., Carson, CA #A/Sign-up 6PM/Starts 7PM/must work clean, BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE TOKYO @ SEÑOR FISH 422 E. 1st St., Los Angeles, CA (little tokyo, near downtown)/Sign-up 6:30PM/Starts 7PM, WESTWOOD BREWCO 1097 Glendon Ave., Westwood, CA/Sign-up lottery 7:30PM/Starts 8PM, COFFEE GALLERY 2029 Lake Ave., Altadena, CA/Starts 8PM/mixed mic, MARTY’S/THE OPEN MIC 7351 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA (walk up Martel past Big Mama’s and Papa’s)/5PM to 11PM/$5/multiple sets allowed.

4) Comedy Central is now having their annual “Stand Up Showdown” for 2011, which puts the power of what Comedy Central Presents Special are the best, and, hopefully, which ones will be aired more frequently. You can vote here. I’m going to watch clips from every comedian and give you my recommendations tomorrow, but, in the meantime, don’t waste your vote impulsively. Pick someone who featured on the Comedy Bureau frequently.

5) Patton Oswalt takes a foray into the literary by making “Zombie Spaceship Wasteland” available for purchase today. Judd Apatow claims, “Further proof that Patton Oswalt is way funnier than I am, which is either high praise or an insult. Your call.” and award winning writer Dave Eggers says, “Fans of Patton Oswalt’s standup comedy have always known he was a born writer at heart, and now here’s the proof. This is a surprisingly affecting, sincere and daresay vulnerable collection of essays, all keenly observed, always very funny.” Maybe, at the very least, you should go to Barnes & Noble and sit for a few hours and check it out, like I plan to do.

6) The Comedy Bureau “Tips Its Hat” today to WENDY LIEBMAN "@WendyLiebman I want to watch OWN but a) I can’t find it and b) I’m too busy texting in my car.“ Over 20 years in comedy, Wendy has built up nearly hit all the milestones that many of us in the "aspiring” category dream to achieve: touring constantly, having a special on HBO, actually making money at comedy, etc. Being one of the quickest, wittiest, and most clever comics I’ve ever heard is what has gotten her well-deserved success. Website, Twitter, and check back at the Comedy Bureau for any of Wendy’s upcoming LA tour dates.

7) From the You Should Have Been There Lagoon: (to show you what I’m talkin’ bout) Wendy Liebman Pt. 1 & Pt. 2

8) Donate to the Comedy Bureau. Thanks to Jerry Brandt for being a continued supporter of the Comedy Bureau. Join him in being a good, decent person.

9) Can’t wait for all the people who have a New Year’s Resolution of trying their hand stand up comedy. I JUST CAN’T WAIT.

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Morning Debriefing 1/4/11

7) From the You Should Have Been There Lagoon: (to show you what I’m talkin’ bout) Wendy Liebman Pt. 1 & Pt. 2

8) Donate to the Comedy Bureau. Thanks to Jerry Brandt for being a continued supporter of the Comedy Bureau. Join him in being a good, decent person.

9) Can’t wait for all the people who have a New Year’s Resolution of trying their hand stand up comedy. I JUST CAN’T WAIT.

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Morning Debriefing 1/2/11

1) In regards to Huffington Post’s “50 Funniest People of the Decade”, do those in charge of “informing” the public on “what is comedy” even know what comedy is anymore? Within their end-all, be all list for 2001-2010, they, first off, include Anderson Cooper, a strict journalist. Out of entire 10 years of comedy, the Huffington Post Comedy Staff actually decided to put the names Anderson Cooper amongst names like Mitch Hedberg, George Carlin, Conan O’Brien, and Paul F. Tompkins, which can only leave me to draw the conclusion that, like so many other “Best/Most Ever” lists, this is more of a popularity contest. Just like winning the Grammy for “Best Hip Hop Artist” has no actual bearing on talent so much as it does Soundscan’s numbers on someone’s shitty, air-horn laden, drenched-in-autotune single, being put on this particular list of who were the funniest people in the last ten years doesn’t necessarily indicate that the person “defined comedy” in that time (which is what the name of the list leads readers to believe). I understand that compiling such lists are incredibly stressful and time-consuming as I spent nearly three solid hours composing #Follow2011LAfunniest, a list of who you should follow on Twitter in 2011 (which is way better than Huffington Post version, if I may say so myself). There is a constant debate, even with only one person calling the shots, in trying to decide who makes the cut, but, you have to be objective as possible with what you’re compiling the list for. Thus, Huffington Post should have made “The 50 Funniest People that I Happen To Know About and/or Are Really Popular” to be more accurate. That’s why #Follow2011LAfunniest has people that may not have as many followers as @azizansari, but are consistently funnier than him along their entire log of Tweets. Several people are surprised with omissions of this Huffington Post list considering they are comedians/writers that are much funnier than the one’s featured. However, in deciphering what that list is really based on, I’m surprised that names omitted include Larry King and Russell Peters.

2) Oh, look, all kidding aside, you could physically make all of these shows, for once, on tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL (as well as afford them): The Not So Inappropriate Show @ UCB Theatre 4PM $12 (stand-by only), ASSSSCAT @ UCB Theatre 7PM FREE, French Toast @ Taix 8:30PM FREE.

3) OPEN MIC RUN: PALMS (call 310 652 6188 before going) 8572 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA/Starts 6PM, SAL’S COMEDY HOLE 7356 Melrose Ave., Hollywood, CA/Starts 6PM/one item min., SUNSET GRILL 7439 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA/Starts 7PM/one item min., MARTY’S/THE OPEN MIC 7351 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA (walk up Martel past Big Mama’s and Papa’s)/5PM to 11PM/$5/multiple sets allowed

4) STARTING JAN. 3RD (that’s tomorrow) Scott Aukerman of Comedy Death Ray will host IFC’s own “Comedy Death Ray” featuring a 90 minute block of now-comedy classics like “Arrested Development”, “Freaks and Geeks”, “Undeclared”, “The Larry Sanders Show”, and “The Ben Stiller Show”. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, tune in on IFC at 10PM to not only catch some of the best comedy series ever created, but Scott Aukerman and several other figures within the comedy world weighing in on them.

5) Big Trouble in Little Tokyo. Jokes. Destruction of public property. Fish Tacos. Jackie Kashian & Andy Peters. Don’t miss it. Señor Fish 422 E. 1st St. Sign up 6:30PM. Starts 7PM.

6) The Comedy Bureau “Tips Its Hat” today to LIZZY COOPERMAN: “AFFIRMATIONS FOR THE NEW YEAR [HQ]” Lizzy is almost beyond words, but here I am, yet again, writing about her comedic genius. Three Time Tip of the Hat winner Lizzy Cooperman is of such a rare ilk of skilled comedic performer that she still makes me laugh with the same jokes even though I’ve heard them 20 times. You can “witness” her this Tues. Jan 4th at Shooting Gallery @ Club 8572/Palms 8:30PM $10 or Thurs. Jan. 6th at Persona @ The Hollywood Improv Lab 8PM $5. Website. Twitter. Birds of Prey.

7) From the “You Should Have Been There” Lagoon: Ron Lynch-Comedian of the Future

8) Donate to the Comedy Bureau. In 2011, there are no other problems, except the Comedy Bureau having $nothing.

9) 2011 Comedy Predictions: Getting a Favstar 100 on Twitter will become more important than doing certain rooms/shows.

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The 2010 Post Brunch Update

1) Many who report on comedy in some fashion like to make “best of” lists at the end of every year. As with every list, there’s always debate, so, in the comedic spirit, I’ll stir the pot even further with The Comedy Bureau’s very own “The Very Best of ‘Best of Comedy in 2010” List featuring the top year end comedy lists as decided by Bureau Director Jake Kroeger himself. It doesn’t get any more “postmodern” than this folks…

1. 10 Moments Comedians Made Us Think This Year-Splitsider
2. 10 Best Comedy Albums of 2010-Amazon.com
3. The 10 Must Have Stand Up Comedy DVDs from 2010-Punchline Magazine
4. 15 Funny People We Lost in 2010-Splitsider
5. Top 5 Funniest TV Comedies-Huffington Post-Matt Wilstein
6. 2010 Wasn’t So Shitty After All-Mike Bridenstine

2) WE ARE ON THE VERGE OF another Saturday. Still, that doesn’t change the fact that there’s some great laughs to be found on tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL. Start with The Not Inappropriate Show @ UCB Theatre 4PM $12, then go to Michael Rayner @ Flappers Burbank YooHoo Room 7:30PM/9:30PM $20, then Christopher Titus @ Flappers Burbank 8PM/10PM $60, or just go to San Francisco and do the 15th Annual Comedy Countdown @ Palace of Fine Arts 9:30PM $60-$114.

3) OPEN MIC RUN: FLAPPERS BURBANK BAR 102 E. Magnolia, Burbank, CA/Starts 5PM, MARTY’S/THE OPEN MIC 7351 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA (walk up Martel past Big Mama’s and Papa’s)/Starts 5PM/$5/multiple sets allowed

4) The Ultimate Free & Cheap LA Comedy List ½-1/8. Thanks Wisepix.

5) With the popularity of Paul F Tompkins Live Tweeting during a major holiday with his #midnightmass2010, Paul has decided to do it yet again with New Year’s Day and The Twilight Zone Marathon on SyFy. Follow @pftompkins after Midnight PST to join in the after hours/New Year’s fun while you wait for the Rose Parade (because you were waiting to watch the Rose Parade, right?)

6) The Comedy Bureau “Tips Its Hat” today to the entire LOS ANGELES COMEDY COMMUNITY that give the entire Comedy Bureau Staff/me something to write about everyday and the inspiration/will to write/perform every night.

7) From the “You Should Have Been There” Lagoon: George Carlin-Modern Man

8) Donate to The Comedy Bureau. Leave 2010 on a good note.

9) Last night, a comic asked to be heckled, just like 2010 did.

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The 2010 Post Brunch Update

4) The Ultimate Free & Cheap LA Comedy List ½-1/8. Thanks Wisepix.

7) From the “You Should Have Been There” Lagoon: George Carlin-Modern Man

8) Donate to The Comedy Bureau. Leave 2010 on a good note.

9) Last night, a comic asked to be heckled, just like 2010 did.

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Morning Debriefing 12/30/10

1) Now for the start of “I Know What You’re Thinking… (No, You Don’t)”, an ongoing series into the psyche of a comedian (me/The Comedy Bureau Director/@blitzkroeger) after a night of comedy in LA—SURE, there were plenty of great shows as “confirmed” by the wondrous updates via my facebook feed that I could have attended last night, but instead, I chose to throw myself back into the pit/den of lions of trying out new material. Over the last week and a half, I’ve tightened my “holidays” material to the point of ad nauseam and decided to get back to work on deconstructing the norms and mores of dating in our times that mostly involves me getting “I’ll be right back” and “You’re too nice.” “You’re such a great guy” is another really popular one. In this spirit, I wrote out a brand new 7 minutes revolving around that topic. Actually, “grossly spat out whilst reading Twitter” would be a more accurate description of what was created. At the open mic, I nearly forgot half of it, remembering mostly just the punchlines and hardly any of the set-ups, transitions, intros, premises, etc. and it was met with the long bouts of silence and false sympathy from the “green” comic in the room who still doesn’t shut up during people’s sets that it deserved. In short, my set was mostly garbage and yet, I felt like it was needed. In being a comedian, as much as I strive to smash the place when I go up, I sincerely believe that a “humbling” set is needed every once in a while to let you know that you’re human and not comedy incarnate (For the record: I have NEVER thought I was comedy incarnate). Still, as honest you have to be with yourself when being an artist developing his or her art, you also have to lift yourself up and try to take something, anything from any performance, which, in this case, was about 5 or 6 lines that worked and actually got laughs the way I wanted despite me rambling them out of my mouth in an almost incoherent, depression-ridden fashion. Tune in next time at the Comedy Bureau to see where those 5 or 6 lines actually go…. or if I just lose it altogether.

2) I don’t have a New Year’s Resolution because it’s just another week on the calendar, just like tonight’s COMEDY CRAWL is another damn fine night of laughter. Start with The 2010 It Sucked Awards @ UCB Theatre 8PM $5 (stand-by only), then go to T’was the Night Before New Year’s Eve @ Hollywood Improv 8PM $14/2 item min., then go to This Comedy Show @ the Jon Lovitz Club 8PM $20/2 drink min./$3 valet parking special, and finish with The Josh & Josh Show @ Bar Lubitsch 8:30PM FREE.

3) OPEN MIC RUN: SAL’S COMEDY HOLE 7356 Melrose Ave., Hollywood, CA/Starts 6PM/one item min., MARTY’S/THE OPEN MIC 7351 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA (walk up Martel past Big Mama’s and Papa’s)/5PM to 11PM/$5/multiple sets allowed

4) The Greater LA Open Mic Map will be very soon updated with whole new round of open mics for the new year for everyone to try their new year’s resolution material at. Check back at the Comedy Bureau very soon for updates.

5) Though this might sound traitorous, especially since the Comedy Bureau is LA based, if you have New Year’s Eve plans to see a comedy show, LEAVE LA!!! The best New Year’s Eve comedy event will actually be taking place in San Francisco at the Palace of Fine Arts. The 15th Annual Comedy Countdown Dec. 31st 9:30PM will feature the likes of Laurie Kilmartin, Nick Thune, Charlyne Yi, Christina Pazitsky, the Sklar Brothers, and many more. Tickets range from $60 to $114, which is why I’m completely fine with going to a party and donating a few bucks for a keg back here in LA.

6) thecomedystore replied to your post: Morning Debriefing 12/29/10-Y U no Love? Two quick answers: 1) In doing the Comedy Bureau, I’m also a comic whose slowly, but surely growing incapable of the act of love. 2) I hate when people write like preschoolers attempting to draw and color. MORE TO COME SOON. VERY SOON.

7) The Comedy Bureau “Tips Its Hat” today to WILL WELDON: “@oldmanweldon To raise awareness about violence against women I tell every guy in Ed Hardy that they probably hit women.” Hailing from Canada, Will has brought has sharpened observations to LA where have they been welcomed certainly by the Comedy Bureau and many others in LA comedy circles. Hopefully, we can make those circles aware of Will’s hilarity increase in size and/or number. All of you good folks reading this can actually see Will at What’s Up Tiger Lily @ Hollywood Studio Bar & Grill Mon. Jan 3rd, 8PM FREE and Fifty First Jokes @ The Zephyr Theater Thurs. Jan. 6th 9PM $7. Also, don’t miss his website, Twitter, or blog.

8) From the “You Should Have Been There” Lagoon: Bill Hicks Banned Set on Letterman

9) Donate to the Comedy Bureau… Tron made enough money, OK? Spread the wealth.

10) The rain has stoppped…. The skies are clear…. You can even see the mountains in the distance that you never knew existed… AND I STILL CAN’T GET THAT NEW 7 MINUTES ON HOMEWRECKING TO WORK!!!

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