Pursuing a career in stand-up comedy at 45 has been a fascinating journey for me, filled with both excitement and trepidation. It’s not just about the jokes; it’s about confronting my fears, dealing with life experience, and figuring out the logistics of this bold new path.
When you’re older, risky life decisions take on a different hue. Having experienced failures in business and personal life, I’ve learned that failure isn’t the end of the world. You pick yourself up and move on. But with age comes a voice of experience that makes it hard to distinguish between fear and wisdom. I have a wealth of material—millions of words, thousands of jokes—but structuring them into a coherent act is a new challenge. My perfectionism and anxiety often push me into theory and busy work to avoid the stage. Yet, I know I must take this seriously if I want to succeed.
The decision to pursue stand-up has been an emotional rollercoaster. It represents a pinnacle of what I could have been, and the idea that it might still be an option is both thrilling and daunting. I’ve been diving into the theory of joke structure, stagecraft, and performance. It’s not just about being funny; it’s about mastering the craft. I’ve set a deadline to get on stage, but I’m aware that my material needs more work. Watching others at open mics has taught me the importance of structure and the pitfalls of just winging it.
Stand-up is a demanding pursuit, especially when you consider the financial and emotional costs. Open mics aren’t free, and the environment can be challenging with late nights and the presence of alcohol. The industry itself is fraught with egos, tantrums, and competitiveness. I’ve had to ask myself if I want to deal with that again. But I’m committed to doing this properly, knowing that taking it seriously means fast-tracking into a position where I might become a target for gossip and criticism.
The technical aspects of comedy are crucial. It’s not just about writing jokes; it’s about performing them, acting out conversations, and engaging with the audience. I’ve learned that getting a laugh consistently is one of the hardest things to do. It requires discipline, practice, and a deep understanding of the craft. I’ve been inspired by comedians like Stewart Lee, who have a more sophisticated, storytelling approach. My style will be different, more nuanced, and less about shock value.
I’ve realised that my writing needs improvement. It’s not about wit or talent; it’s about structure and pacing. Learning how jokes work has already made me a better writer and storyteller. I’ve considered taking an improv class, but I’m not a fan of overly enthusiastic or extroverted environments. Instead, I’m focusing on refining my material and learning the technical aspects of performance.
Despite the challenges, I’ve decided to pursue stand-up because it’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I know it’s normal to be nervous about being on stage, but I’m determined to give it a go. Even if I never become a famous comedian, the skills I’m learning will make me a better speaker and writer. I have a backup plan with my law degree and consulting work, but I’m committed to seeing where this journey takes me.
In the end, it’s about doing what you love and seeing if it can work out. I live in the real world, and this journey is about more than just comedy; it’s about confronting fears, taking risks, and staying true to myself. So, come along with me on this journey. Let’s see if I can make it in the world of stand-up comedy.