- It’s a pain in the ass.
Let’s be real, if you’re creating a solo show, you’re basically having a one-person party. And like any party, it’s going to be a lot of work. You’ll have to put on your social hat and come up with interesting things to say. Except, instead of worrying about bringing chips and dip, you have to worry about writing a killer script, finding a venue, and convincing people to come. Plus, if you’re going to bow at the end, you might need to do some yoga first, ’cause that stuff can be hard on your back.
- It’s expensive and you probably won’t make a living at it.
Let’s face it, unless you’re John Mulaney or Ali Wong, chances are you won’t make a living as a solo performer or a comedian. Sure, you might be able to scrape by, but you’ll probably have to resort to sleeping on couches and eating ramen noodles. But hey, at least you’ll have a great story to tell at parties. And funny people (usually funny men) often get more dates, even if they’re ugly. I like to think the word fugly really means funny but ugly but totally f-able. F-able because you’re funny even though you’re not especially hot. Fugly.
- You will probably discover things about yourself you don’t like.
If you’re going to do a one-person show, you’re going to have to dig deep and find the interesting stuff. And let’s be honest, sometimes the interesting stuff is also the uncomfortable stuff. But don’t worry, you’ll be fine. It’s not like you’re going to have to perform in front of a room full of strangers or anything… oh, wait.
- You’ll have moments when people say, “You’re so brave.” instead of “You’re so talented.” Or “You’re so funny.”
Yeah, nothing screams “successful performer” like being compared to a firefighter or a soldier. Because let’s face it, getting up on stage and pouring your heart out to strangers is just as heroic as running into a burning building or fighting on the frontlines.
- Once it goes well, your friends will all start jumping on your bandwagon.
Congratulations, you just paved the way for all your friends to also become solo performers. And while you’re happy for their success, you can’t help but feel a little bitter that they didn’t have to go through the same struggles you did. But hey, at least they’ll give you credit for inspiring them, right?
All in all, creating a solo show may be a pain in the ass, expensive, and emotionally draining, but hey, at least you get to experience the thrill of performing and making people laugh (or cry, depending on your style). And let’s be real, who needs a life outside of writing and touring and performing anyway? It’s not like you were planning on having a social life or anything.
Are you still crazy enough to want to get on stage (like me)? I can help make it less annoying, more fun, and maybe even make it a better show. (Click the link to set up a complimentary consult with me, if you’re serious about being silly.)
Alicia
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