Who is the author of 'Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition'?

The author of 'Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition' is Greg Dean.

What are the main themes in 'Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition'?

The main themes in 'Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition' include Performing Arts, Arts and Culture.

What genre is 'Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition'?

'Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition' is categorized as Arts and Culture.

What are the main techniques for writing stand-up comedy outlined in the book?

In 'Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition,' Greg Dean outlines several main techniques for writing stand-up comedy: Identifying Personal Experiences: Dean emphasizes the importance of drawing from personal experiences to create relatable content. The Comedy Formula: The book introduces a basic structure for jokes that includes setup and punchline, highlighting how to effectively deliver punchlines for maximum impact. Using Tags: Dean explains how to add tags to jokes, which are additional lines that build on the initial punchline, escalating the comedic effect. Finding the Funny: Techniques for brainstorming and refining ideas are discussed, encouraging comedians to look for humor in everyday situations. Character Development: The author emphasizes the importance of developing a comedic persona that can engage the audience and deliver material effectively. Testing Material: The book encourages comedians to test their material in front of audiences, helping them figure out what works and what doesn’t. Rewriting and Editing: Dean stresses the importance of editing your material to tighten up jokes and improve delivery.

How does Greg Dean emphasize the importance of timing in delivering jokes?

In 'Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition,' Greg Dean emphasizes the importance of timing in delivering jokes by highlighting that comedic timing is crucial for the punchline to have the maximum impact. He teaches that timing involves pacing, pauses, and the rhythm of delivery, which help build anticipation and enhance the audience's reaction. Dean provides practical exercises to help comedians practice their timing, suggesting that even a well-written joke can fall flat without the right delivery. He underscores that effective timing can transform a good joke into a great one, making it essential for any successful stand-up performance.

What common mistakes do new comedians make according to Dean, and how can they avoid them?

In 'Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition,' Greg Dean identifies several common mistakes that new comedians often make: Lack of Structure: Many new comedians fail to structure their material effectively. Dean recommends having a clear setup, punchline, and tag for jokes to ensure they land well. Overwriting Jokes: Beginning comedians may try to include too many details or embellishments in their jokes, which can detract from the punchline. Dean advises focusing on the essentials and keeping the jokes concise. Ignoring Timing: New comedians sometimes underestimate the importance of timing in delivering jokes. Dean emphasizes practicing delivery to find the right pacing that allows laughter to happen naturally. Not Understanding the Audience: Failing to connect with or understand the audience can lead to poor performance. Dean suggests researching the audience and adapting material accordingly to engage them. Neglecting Rehearsal: Many novices do not rehearse enough, leading to poor memorization and delivery. Dean encourages comedians to practice their set repeatedly to build confidence and smoothness in performance. To avoid these mistakes, Dean recommends taking his step-by-step approach to writing and performing, focusing on understanding comedy principles, practicing diligently, and seeking feedback from peers.

Can you explain the structure of a stand-up comedy routine as described in the book?

In 'Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition,' Greg Dean outlines a structured approach to creating a stand-up comedy routine. The main components of the structure include: Setup: This is the introduction of a joke where the comedian sets the scene or presents the premise. Punchline: Following the setup, the punchline delivers the surprise or the humor, which ideally elicits laughter. It's crucial for the punchline to have a strong impact, as it is the core of the joke. Tag: After the punchline, a tag is an additional joke or line that builds on the initial punchline, often enhancing the comedic effect without needing extra setup. Transition: This is the technique used to move smoothly from one joke or topic to another, ensuring the routine flows well. Themes: Many routines focus on a central theme or concept, binding the jokes together into a cohesive set. Dean emphasizes the importance of timing, delivery, and audience engagement throughout the routine, as well as the development of personal comedic voice and style. He provides exercises and techniques to help comedians refine their material and performance skills as they build their routines.

What role does personal storytelling play in Dean's approach to stand-up comedy?

In 'Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition,' Greg Dean emphasizes the importance of personal storytelling as a foundational element of stand-up comedy. According to Dean, personal stories help comedians connect with their audience on a deeper level, making their performances more relatable and engaging. He encourages comedians to draw from their own experiences, using humor to highlight the absurdities of everyday life. By incorporating personal narratives, comedians can infuse their routines with authenticity, allowing their unique perspectives and personalities to shine through. Dean provides techniques on how to craft and structure these stories effectively, ensuring that they resonate well with the audience while delivering humor.

Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition

In 'Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy,' Greg Dean offers a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of stand-up. With practical exercises and insightful techniques, he demystifies the process of crafting jokes and performing with confidence. Readers will discover the secrets behind timing, delivery, and audience engagement that top comedians employ. This revised edition not only sharpens your comedic skills but also encourages you to find and develop your unique voice. Whether you're a novice or looking to refine your craft, this book is your roadmap to making people laugh.

By Greg Dean

Published: 2017

""Comedy is not just about making people laugh; it's about finding the truth in the absurdity of life and sharing that discovery with others.""

Arts and Culture Performing Arts

Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

Paperback Revised 2018

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition

In "Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition," Greg Dean stresses that mastering the art of stand-up comedy is not an innate talent but a skill that can be cultivated through dedicated practice. He introduces a systematic, step-by-step framework aimed at both novices and experienced comedians. For instance, Dean meticulously breaks down the construction of jokes by focusing on foundational elements like setup and punchline, ensuring that newcomers can follow along without feeling overwhelmed. This structured approach demystifies comedy, making it approachable; he emphasizes that even seasoned performers can benefit from revisiting these core concepts to hone their skills. The significance of this perspective lies in its empowerment of aspiring comedians, encouraging them to view humorous storytelling as an achievable goal rather than a rare gift. This resonates deeply with the overarching theme of the book: that comedy is a discipline requiring practice, reflection, and adaptation. Dean's methodology not only guides comedians through various stages of their development but also promotes a culture of continuous learning within the comedic community, emphasizing that even the most successful performers are always refining their craft.

About the Author

Greg Dean

Greg Dean is an accomplished author and illustrator, best known for his engaging graphic novels and comic strips that capture everyday humor and relatable life experiences. His notable works include the popular graphic novel series 'Real Life' and the webcomic 'The Greg Dean Comic,' which has garnered a loyal following for its wit and insightful commentary on contemporary culture. Known for his distinctive art style and ability to blend humor with poignant observations, Dean's writing resonates with readers of all ages. He continues to create captivating stories that reflect the nuances of modern life.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Greg Dean
Published: September 2017
Publisher: Be Funny Incorporated
ISBN: 0989735176
Language: English
Pages: 216
Genres: Performing ArtsArts and Culture

Purchase Options

Buy on Amazon

Buy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

Leonardo da Vinci

Walter Isaacson

Born Standing Up

Steve Martin

Mountain Light

Galen A. Rowell, Sierra Club

Creative Quest

Questlove

The French Menu Cookbook

Richard Olney

Crazy Salad and Scribble Scribble

Nora Ephron

Envisioning Information

Edward R. Tufte

Lean Thinking

James P. Womack, Daniel T. Jones

Showing 8 of 28 similar books

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Book Collections you might like →

Joe Rogan's Book Recommendations

Joe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.

View Collection

Jack Edwards's Book Recommendations

Jack Edwards is a British YouTuber, content creator, and author known for his videos on literature, academia, and productivity. Edwards gained popularity through his educational content, which includes book recommendations, study tips, and insights into university life. He is an advocate for reading and lifelong learning, often encouraging his audience to explore literature and improve their academic skills. Edwards has also written a book, The Uni-Verse, which offers advice to students navigating university life. His work has made him a well-known figure in the educational and literary communities, particularly among young readers and students.

View Collection

Dave Chappelle's Book Recommendations

Dave Chappelle is an American comedian, actor, and writer, widely regarded as one of the greatest stand-up comedians of all time. He gained fame with Chappelle’s Show, a sketch comedy series that offered sharp social commentary on race, politics, and culture. After stepping away from the show at the height of its popularity, Chappelle made a triumphant return to stand-up and has since released several acclaimed specials on Netflix. Known for his fearless humor and insightful critiques of society, Chappelle’s influence on comedy is profound. He continues to perform and speak on issues of race, identity, and justice.

View Collection

John Green's Book Recommendations

John Green is an American author, YouTuber, and educator, best known for his best-selling novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. Green's writing often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of adolescence, resonating with both young adults and adults alike. He is also the co-creator of the YouTube channels Vlogbrothers and CrashCourse, where he educates viewers on history, literature, and science in an engaging, accessible way. Green is known for his deep empathy and ability to connect with readers through emotionally powerful storytelling. His work in literature and online education has made him a beloved figure in both media and education circles.

View Collection

Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.

View Collection

Anthony Jeselnik's Book Recommendations

Anthony Jeselnik is an American stand-up comedian, writer, and actor known for his dark, edgy humor and his ability to push boundaries in comedy. Jeselnik’s unique style often involves taboo subjects and a deadpan delivery, which has earned him a reputation as one of the boldest and most controversial comedians working today. He has released several stand-up specials, including Thoughts and Prayers and Fire in the Maternity Ward, and has appeared on shows like Comedy Central Roasts and The Jeselnik Offensive. Jeselnik’s fearless approach to comedy and his willingness to address difficult topics have made him a distinctive voice in the comedy world.

View Collection

Adam Savage's Book Recommendations

Adam Savage is an American special effects designer, actor, and television personality best known for his work on the popular science entertainment show "MythBusters." He has made significant contributions to the popularization of science and engineering through his engaging presentations and experiments. Savage is also an accomplished author, with his book "Every Tool's a Hammer: Life Is What You Make It" offering insights into creativity, problem-solving, and the maker culture. His dedication to hands-on learning and DIY innovation has inspired a wide audience of all ages. Beyond his television and literary work, Savage continues to influence the maker community through his website, Tested.com, where he shares projects and tutorials.

View Collection

Henry Rollins's Book Recommendations

Henry Rollins is an American musician, writer, actor, and spoken-word artist, best known as the frontman for the hardcore punk band Black Flag. Rollins’ music and performance style are characterized by intensity and aggression, often addressing themes of alienation, anger, and social injustice. After his music career, Rollins became known for his spoken-word performances and his work as a writer, where he explores personal and political issues with a sharp, critical voice. He is also an activist, supporting causes like LGBTQ+ rights and human rights. Rollins’ blend of music, performance, and activism has made him a countercultural icon.

View Collection

Showing 8 of 17 related collections

“"Comedy is not just about making people laugh; it's about finding the truth in the absurdity of life and sharing that discovery with others."”

Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition

By Greg Dean

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.

Key Points from Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition

In "Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition," Greg Dean stresses that mastering the art of stand-up comedy is not an innate talent but a skill that can be cultivated through dedicated practice. He introduces a systematic, step-by-step framework aimed at both novices and experienced comedians. For instance, Dean meticulously breaks down the construction of jokes by focusing on foundational elements like setup and punchline, ensuring that newcomers can follow along without feeling overwhelmed. This structured approach demystifies comedy, making it approachable; he emphasizes that even seasoned performers can benefit from revisiting these core concepts to hone their skills. The significance of this perspective lies in its empowerment of aspiring comedians, encouraging them to view humorous storytelling as an achievable goal rather than a rare gift. This resonates deeply with the overarching theme of the book: that comedy is a discipline requiring practice, reflection, and adaptation. Dean's methodology not only guides comedians through various stages of their development but also promotes a culture of continuous learning within the comedic community, emphasizing that even the most successful performers are always refining their craft.

Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition

Start Listening

What Readers Say About This Book

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition

About the Author

Greg Dean

Book Details

Purchase Options

Similar books you might like →

Leonardo da Vinci

Born Standing Up

Mountain Light

Creative Quest

The French Menu Cookbook

Crazy Salad and Scribble Scribble

Envisioning Information

Lean Thinking

Take your reading experience to the next level

Book Collections you might like →

Joe Rogan's Book Recommendations

Jack Edwards's Book Recommendations

Dave Chappelle's Book Recommendations

John Green's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Anthony Jeselnik's Book Recommendations

Adam Savage's Book Recommendations

Henry Rollins's Book Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Genres

Genres

Genres

Featured Collections

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy - Revised Edition

Frequently Asked Questions