Comedy has changed dramatically over the past few years. Many credit the change to be a result of “woke culture.” People are finding witty jokes less funny and are relating more to funny moments that happen in real life.
For a lot of comedians, this means people don’t find them as funny as they once did, relying simply on scripted jokes and one-liners to persuade a laugh out of you. Other comedians have adapted (like former SNL writer-turned-comedian John Mulaney and Michael McIntyre, a British comic who was once the highest grossing stand-up comedian in the world), who follow more of a storytelling method, setting up the awkward situations for the audience to take part in as well.
One thing is certain, though: comedy constantly changes and evolves, and comics, especially beginners, must learn to adapt to their audiences, and be funny in any room.
In Edmonton, the best place to learn comedy is at Rapid Fire Theatre. They are masters of toeing the line, whether in improv or online skits. They are hosting regular online workshops on improv, storytelling and games. The next set of Online Improv for Beginners classes start on February 23rd, so book your spot!
Whether you’re just starting out or have a few laughs already under your belt, the classes will whittle your funny bone into perfection.