http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog.php News and notes from the Washington DC comedy scene en-us Copyright 2007, Chris White chris@dcstandup.com Wed, 20 Aug 2008 05:00 GMT Wed, 20 Aug 2008 05:00 GMT Mon, 18 Aug 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080818http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080818In lieu of real news, I (Chris White) will let you know the following: Sun, 17 Aug 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080817http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080817Here's an interesting story with DC ties -- Sheryl Underwood was in DC court last week, fending off a challenge to her recent election as president of her sorority. Sat, 16 Aug 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080816http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080816If you haven't heard the pretty cool news, Erin Jackson (in addition to being the local face of comedy in about five different recent articles/TV reports) has been booked to appear on Ellen DeGeneres' talk show some time next month. Fri, 15 Aug 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080815http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080815A guy by the name of Michael Smart is organizing shows in Fredericksburg at two different venues; the shows are on a monthly basis. If you're a comic interested in making the trip, you can get a hold of him by e-mail. Thu, 14 Aug 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080814http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080814Hossman, onetime organizer of the open mic at The Library, has a new Tuesday show going at JoJo on the U St. corridor. The fun starts on Aug. 26 and it's going to be every week. The info is on the open mics page. Mon, 11 Aug 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080811http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080811Straight up: I missed the DC Comedy Festival. I was out of town. We're hearing some various reports and review from all over. Thoughts? Feelings? If you want them known, you can e-mail them to chris@dcstandup.com and I'm happy to list your recaps of the hot festival action. Fri, 8 Aug 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080808http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080808You can see an NBC 4 segment on DC comedy at this web site. Jason, thanks for the plug! Mon, 4 Aug 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080804http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080804There's a LOT of comedy going on in DC this week. If you're one of the wackos who sticks around town in August, then there's definitely something to tickle your fancy. Some highlights: Thu, 31 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080731http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080731Not much to report in the way of news this week ... so go out and make some! If you like reading heated debates, some DC people are apparently a little peeved about the DC Comedy Festival's lineup. Check out the comments on that DC Comedy 4 Now post if you're interested in these kinds of debates. Wed, 30 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080730http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080730 Tue, 29 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080729http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080729Here's some fun news from comedian and super genius Adam Ruben. The first show was yesterday, but it's in repeats: Fri, 25 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080725http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080725Unless I'm misinformed (and it happens!) the first show at the Uptown Tavern in Cleveland Park is tonight at 9. The lineup is Aparna Nancherla, John McBride, Jason Weems, Jay Hastings, Nick Turner, Kojo Mante and Mike Blejer. (3433 Conn. Ave. NW) Tue, 22 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080722http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080722Like a moron, I accidentally deleted the e-mail sent to me about this, but here's the gist: Sun, 20 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080720http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080720Not too many changes -- a few subtractions, as some names have disappeared from online calendars. But also couple of big names thrown into the mix. Bob Newhart is at the Warner on September 5, Ralphie May (who you might have heard is politically incorrect) plays the Lisner on September 12. George Lopez and Kathy Griffin have added extra dates. Don't forget there's a charity show at the Lincoln Theatre on August 2 featuring some local talents (Freddi Vernell, Mike Brooks, Marion Kendrick). Tue, 15 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080715http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080715New comedy show in Adams Morgan on Wednesdays: Mon, 14 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080714http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080714I was busy with my own stuff last week, so here's the dope I didn't tell you about yet. Thu, 10 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080710http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080710We're passing along this notice from Dustin -- if you're interested, check out the MySpace page listed below. Wed, 9 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080709http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080709I added a listing for Live Humans in DC to the open mics page. It's a variety show, so there's all kinds of performers, but comedians are definitely in that mix. The venue shifts; right now they're using Solly's Tavern, The Palace of Wonders and the Electric Maid (every show is on a Tuesday). You can see where they're at each week at the MySpace page linked above. Tue, 8 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080708http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080708This Saturday night at 8, Chris White (that is, me) returns to the DC Improv Lounge for the third installment of "I Take Requests." Two years ago, Chris started taking challenges from friends, family and strangers on things to joke about. So far they've come up with subjects ranging from body piercing to Newton's 3rd Law of Motion. Now all 16 subjects are crammed into one evening of stand-up -- and oh yeah, there's also a trivia contest, some funny videos and a grand finale. Tickets are only $10 and you can get them at the DC Improv site. Wed, 2 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080702http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080702The second DC Improv Happy Hour Trivia night is in the books. You can get the results right here. Tue, 1 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080701http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080701The Library open mic (and from what we're hearing, the entire Library) is done. This continues the general trend of open mics thinning out lately. I'd be worried, except that this cycle has repeated two or three times in recent years. Sunrise, sunset ... Mon, 30 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080630http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080630A lot of places have a limited schedule, what with this being Fourth of July week and this city being the center of the free world. Such is life. Thu, 26 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080626http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080626According to the blog run by the Comedy Zone Northern Virginia, operations resume on July 19 at a new location. Shows will now be at the Carlyle Club in Alexandria (411 John Carlyle St.), and on the blog they are describing a "Cotton Club" style show -- an evening featuring live jazz, variety acts, a headliner and then dancing. Tue, 24 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080624http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080624Here's a little more information on that taping we metioned recently for the LOGO Network (it's the gay channel). Mon, 23 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080623http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080623You've probably heard by now that George Carlin died yesterday, apparently of heart failure. For a guy who did as much hard living as Carlin reportedly did, 71 isn't a bad age to reach. Sun, 22 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080622http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080622After Seven weeks of competition later, Jeff Maurer was the victor in the Arlington Drafthouse's stand-up contest. He won the title on Saturday night, on a show with fellow finalists Al Goodwin, Jon Mumma and Larry Poon. Jeff gets cash and work considerations, so he'll probably just roll all that new money into his Podcast budget. Thu, 19 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080619http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080619We're passing along this notice from Dan Nainan: Wed, 18 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080618http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080618 Jeff Maurer has uploaded a third podcast episode; you may recall he discusses stand-up industry issues with comedians as his guests. This time out it's about why there are so few women in comedy. Guests are Erin Jackson, Aparna Nancherla and Diana Saez, three DC-area female comics. You can download it from Jeff's web site. Still no syndication feed so I think that's the only place to get it for now. Tue, 17 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080617http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080617Here's some venue news, for those interested in these sorts of things: Fri, 13 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080613http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080613A few changes to the local open mic roster -- it was a week of transitions for bistros as Bistro Europa's open mic went on temporary hiatus and Dave's American Bistro stopped operations on its open mic. All changes are reflected on the open mics page. Thu, 12 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080612http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080612 Wed, 11 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080611http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080611If you don't read Newsweek (and you shouldn't, it's mostly sensationalistic crap!) then you missed this article on how most comedy web sites are financial busts. Tue, 10 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080610http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080610 Here's a double-whammy notice (it's also on the front page): Thu, 5 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080605http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080605Huzzah technology! Tue, 3 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080603http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080603This seems like info worth passing on, from Shari Houchhauser (shochhauser at gmail.com): Mon, 2 Jun 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080602http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080602Not to be all gloom and doom, but this is probably going to be an ugly summer for the comedy / entertainment industry nationwide. Between gas prices, food prices, and major media networks screaming (for fun a profit) that there's a "meltdown" in our economy, people just are not going to spend much money. Combine that with the usual slow pace of summer and it could be ugly. Thu, 29 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080529http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080529I checked out the open mic at Ri-Ra (Clarendon) last night for the first time, and me likey. Nice crowd, cozy room, good sound, a ton of beers on tap ... there's really nothing to complain about. The current room is smaller than the space that was available at Dr. Dremo's, but I feel like the the noise from the downstairs bar doesn't bleed through into the showroom the way it did at Dremo's. I'll take that trade. Wed, 28 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080528http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080528Some more information on the open mic listings -- it seems Wiseacres is not going to have Tuesday open mics (at least for the time being), and the Library is also no longer operational on Tuesdays. I had heard that it would be moving to Fridays -- trying to confirm that now, and I'll let you know as soon as I do. Also, O'Sullivan's on Mondays has stopped. All these changes are reflected in the open mic listings. Thanks to Robb and Ern for the tips. Tue, 27 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080527http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080527I hope you had a nice holiday weekend. Now mow the lawn. Thu, 22 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080522http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080522It's all the books, baby ... the first Happy Hour Trivia night at the Improv went down without a hitch. Wed, 21 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080521http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080521The weeks of waiting are finally over ... The first ever Happy Hour Trivia is tonight at the DC Improv. If you want to participate (teams are welcome and encouraged), you have to: Tue, 20 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080520http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080520Here's a friendly neighborhood reminder to go check out Artomatic, which started May 9 and rolls through June 15. This year they've added a lot of performance art to the mix, including stand-up comedy, for example, this Friday they'll have a big comedy showcase at the SpeakEasy lounge from 8 p.m to midnight. Neat, huh? Mon, 19 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080519http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080519This should be an interesting week for the DC comedy scene. The episode of The Food Network's "Dinner Impossible" featuring the DC Improv airs this Wednesday at 10 p.m.; you'll be seeing lots of the club and graduates of the DC Improv comedy school throughout the show. Thu, 15 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080515http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080515If you're looking for more fun time-wasting bloggity goodness, Jared Stern has been angling to post a joke or premise for every day in May. He might have missed one day so far, but that's about it ... Wed, 14 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080514http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080514This is funny. Tue, 13 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080513http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080513Attention, dorks who enjoy laughter: we're still full steam ahead for Happy Hour Trivia at the DC Improv Lounge on May 21. Mon, 12 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080512http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080512I'll get this on the regular listings soon enough, but here's word of a new Thursday open mic: Fri, 9 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080509http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080509... and you can get it right off his Web site. From Jeff:... Thu, 8 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080508http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080508This blog thoroughly endorses Tom Waits and his music. He's funny. And bizarre. Behold. Wed, 7 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080507http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080507Intriguing notice here that SuperDeluxe.com is going kaput. Mon, 5 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080505http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080505Nicer weather be damned! Go see live comedy shows instead. Thu, 1 May 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080501http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080501Here's some exciting news: The DC Improv is letting me (Chris White, for those of you not up to speed) host a one-hour bar trivia contest before one of my upcoming shows there. Why me? Because I was on the 1994 Penncrest High School Championship Quiz Bowl Team! And also, because I begged. Here's how it works: Wed, 30 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080430http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080430Get the Riverdale gang back together, people ... they might be interested in this new open mic. From Sampson: Mon, 28 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080428http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080428The Laughing Lizard Lounge shut down a few months ago, taking some regular Saturday night comedy showcases with it. But it seems that they have returned. Here's a note from Tyler Sonnichsen of TDC Presents: Fri, 25 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080425http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080425"Forgetting Sarah Marshall": big hype, big promotional campaign, good reviews, two smoking hot babes, Hollywood golden child producer, and it's was the only comedy on the market when it opened. Plus lots and lots of press coverage. Thu, 24 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080424http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080424Times are tough all over ... so here's an interesting idea from the D.C. Improv: Wed, 23 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080423http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080423 I was up at Magooby's Joke House over the weekend. I actually had never been to the place when it was Tracy's, so this was my first time in the building. Tue, 22 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080422http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080422The changes continue to be fast and furious as far as venues go. The Cardninal's Nest open mic, which I believe I was writing about just last week, seems to be dead. In its place, the Library open mic is now every week. The only way I'm wrong on this is if the organizer, Hossman, has figured out a way to clone himself so he can run both shows at once. It's not impossible, but I'm going to guess the beer sponsor wasn't paying for that. Mon, 21 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080421http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080421 It turns out that DC's Funniest College is actually in Baltimore, at Nathan Min took the trophy back to Johns Hopkins University last Wednesday. (The finals were held in the main showroom at the DC Improv.) I wasn't at the finals, but I hosted the Hopkins prelim, and he made it through based on some pretty clever observational stuff and ironic prop humor. They taped the finals for XM, and you won't have any idea what he's doing when it airs. Huzzah. Fri, 18 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080418http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080418I'll be missing Kids in the Hall on May 3 at the Warner ... sigh. Absolutely one of my favorite comedy shows ever. Silly and inventive without being condescending and snobby. You don't get that much these days. Thu, 17 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080417http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080417Not everyone has my copious amounts of free time, but ... Wed, 16 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080416http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080416We're passing along this info from Artomatic, which is just around the corner: Fri, 11 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080411http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080411 We finally have the information on the new Brookland-area open mic -- it's at the Cardinal's Nest on 10th Street NE. The show is organized by the Hossman, the same guy who has been producing shows at The Library (12th St. NE) since late 2007. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080410http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080410Here's yet another reminder that the DC Comedy Fest submission deadline is fast approaching -- it's Tuesday, April 15. If you're a stand-up, you need 10 a continuous 10-minute clip (DVD or online), and $35 in a PayPal account. Wed, 9 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080409http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080409This was included in "I Take Requests 2" at the DC Improv Lounge on April 5 -- it's written by Chris Wright. Tue, 8 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080408http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080408Here are some interesting thoughts on stand-up from Andy Kline, posted over at the DC Comedy 4 Now blog. Definitely worth a look if you're a student of the game. Mon, 7 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080407http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080407Ben Bailey, a longtime stand-up and the the host of "Cash Cab" on Discovery Channel, headlines the DC Improv this week. He was nice enough to answer a few questions from DC Standup about his experiences as a game show host and a comedian -- check out the interview below, and then go catch his show from Wednesday through Sunday. DC STANDUP COMMANDS YOU. You can also learn more about Ben at therealbenbailey.com.... Wed, 2 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080402http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080402We're just three days away from Chris White's "I Take Requests" at the DC Improv Lounge. Is it distasteful for Chris, who is writing this blog, to pimp his own show? Almost definitely. BUT HE'S DOING IT ANYWAY! Tue, 1 Apr 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080401http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080401We just finished our semi-regular glance at the calendars of various area theaters and there are some BIG names coming through in May. Lewis Black and Kids in the Hall have appeared on the Warner calendar, and Katt Williams and Eddie Izzard are coming to Constitution Hall. And out of nowhere, Janeane Garofalo has appeared on the Drafthouse calendar in a few weeks. Here's the latest listing (and remember, we keep this posted on the calendar page as well): Mon, 31 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080331http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080331DC comedian and nice guy Jon Mumma is going voluntarily bald, for charity: Sat, 29 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080329http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080329I got a note from the All Stars Comedy people regarding the booking procedures. Fri, 28 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080328http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080328I made a note of this on the front page, but three new venues have kicked off ... All Stars Comedy has started shows in Arlington, Georgetown and Woodbridge. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080327http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080327Note to pass along from the organizers of the Thursday open mic at Dave's American Bistro: Wed, 26 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080326http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080326Nothing concrete to report yet, but the word on the street is that another open mic is coming ... the organizers of The Library's open mic in Brookland every other Tuesday are supposedly going to be working with another venue to fill in those gaps. It all adds up to one weekly Tuesday open mic spread over two venues. More details as they become available. Tue, 25 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080325http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080325Some of you may be familiar with the Chris White Challenge, others not so much ... basically, people can e-mail me subjects and I'll try to put together a stand-up set on whatever you throw at me. If I take your suggestion, you get a free CD (and the satisfaction of seeing your idea on YouTube, estimated cash value $0.025). Thu, 20 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080320http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080320If you click over to our calendar page you can see new listings for some weekly shows. Wed, 19 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080319http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080319The deadline is fast approaching for the Turbo Tax "Tax Laugh" contest on YouTube -- the idea is that you submit stand-up or sketch comedy about taxes, and the winner gets something like $10,000. For a national contest, there are, shockingly, only about 90 entries as of this posting. Tue, 18 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080318http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080318If you're in the mood for a comedy show that's a little bit different, take in DC Benny this week at the Improv. He's got a style that you don't see too much these days -- it's all built around longer stories and a quirky delivery. A lot of comedy these days is choppier and tailored for TV; I think what DC is doing is almost a throwback. It's refreshing. Fri, 14 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080314http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080314Here's a note from Pete Eibner, who does booking for the Baltimore Comedy Factory: Thu, 13 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080313http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080313I got this e-mail last night. Don't know anything about it, but sounds like it might be of interest to some people: Wed, 12 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080312http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080312 Tue, 11 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080311http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080311Passing along this info from Bird Knight. The first show is this Thursday, March 13: Mon, 10 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080310http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080310Start the week off right. DANCE PARTY! Sat, 8 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080308http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080308This blog is absolutely fantastic. Seriously. Go read it. Thanks to Joe Randazzo for the tip. Thu, 6 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080306http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080306This is pretty cool. From Naomi Johnson: "A short documentary on the Funniest Fed Competition has been accepted into the DC Independent Film Festival and will be shown on March 13 (Thursday) at 7 p.m. in the Jack Morton Auditorium at GW University (Foggy Bottom metro)." Wed, 5 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080305http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080305How green is our valley ... today I get word of ANOTHER open mic starting at ANOTHER Irish pub in ANOTHER ... uh, that is, the same ... Clarendon. Starting March 24 Kyle Martin and Mike Blejer are organizing a Monday open mic at O'Sullivan's Irish Pub. The new listing and sign-up info is over at the open mics page. Tue, 4 Mar 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080304http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080304Sorry for the lack of recent postes, but I've been traveling, and then I decided to celebrate traveling by being very ill all day on Monday. You should try it. In case you were wondering, Crystal Light tastes almost as good coming up as going down. Wed, 27 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080227http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080227If you are a teenager, good for you. Your hopes and dreams are probably still intact. Forthwith, you should probably nurture them ... Tue, 26 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080226http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080226A reminder that I am updating the theater listings on the calendar page pretty often. Here's the latest -- lots of new shows at the Warner, plus the big news of Chris Rock at Constitution Hall. W00t. Mon, 25 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080225http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080225All sorts of developments as far as comedy venues are concerned: Taglines found a new home, there's a new Saturday open mic starting at the Arlington Drafthouse, and Parkers in Bethesda is kicking the tires on a Friday showcase. We also hear rumors that there's going to be a new mid-week open mic in the Clarendon area before long. We'll keep you posted. In the meantime, check out the venues, open mic and calendar listings to get all the latest. Wed, 20 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080220http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080220We've got this listed on the calendar page and front page too, but it bears mentioning a third time. Lots of good local talent on a showcase at the Improv Lounge on March 2 (a Sunday): Tue, 19 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080219http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080219The Laughing Lizard Lounge in Alexandria is closing, thus ending two years of Saturday showcases. You can get more information from TDC Productions. Mon, 18 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080218http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080218It's Presidents Day weekend, and what better way to celebrate than by spending all day reading and watching comedy about the Presdients? What's that? Drinking with your friends? OK, that's slightly better. But if you have no friends ... Fri, 15 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080215http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080215As part of our DC cultural exchange program, here are some new MP3s of the award-winning radio series "Jazz Stories." Each one is a chat with some of the trailblazers of America's greatest artform. Thu, 14 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080214http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080214Passing along this notice from Dan Nainan. No word on the exact location, pay scale or anything along those lines, but here it is: Tue, 12 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080212http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080212A quick look at the calendar page should let you know that there is a TON of comedy going on this week. Just scads. Here's the rundown -- in addition to all the regular comedy club shows ... Mon, 11 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080211http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080211TV news for the DC Comedy scene: Thu, 7 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080207http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080207We got this announcement via e-mail this week, it's for an event at the George Washington campus on Friday: Wed, 6 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080206http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080206From today's Washingtonpost.com at around 11 a.m. I gotta say, the U.S. is keeping its pimp hand strong on immigration issues ... Tue, 5 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080205http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080205In 2004, a Republican named Jack Ryan ran for the U.S. senate in Illinois; he was a divorced multi-millionaire investment banker who dropped out of the world of high finance to teach at an inner-city parochial school. He embodied compassionate conservatism in the true sense, not the parody it became on a national level. Even in Democratic-leaning Illinois, he had a real shot at victory. Mon, 4 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080204http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080204A few things have always puzzled me in running dcstandup.com:... Thu, 31 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080131http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080131We're short on useful news today, so here's what's going on at some of ye olde blogs: Tue, 29 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080129http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080129The DC Improv Lounge is getting popular in 2008. Some recently announced shows: Mon, 28 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080128http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080128This is from last year, but it actually holds up OK. Which is a sad comment on the two-party system. And me. Fri, 25 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080125http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080125... to Erik Myers, who destroyed something in his leg during the final Dr. Dremo's open mic on Wednesday. He did a high kick while acting out a joke and very suddenly found himself in a world of pain. Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080124http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080124Virgin Galactic has unveiled a model for its commercial passenger space shuttle and said test flights will be conducted later this year. And Southwest has announced its planned 2015 service from Providence, R.I., to the mesosphere, where maybe a friend willing to go an hour out of their way could pick you up and then get you the rest of the way to space. Barry Bonds has asked a federal judge to dismiss perjury charges, citing his indictment's "striking inartfulness," adding that "Barry only pawn in game of life." Also on Wednesday, the Los Angeles Dodgers asked Major League Baseball for the 2002 wild card and a replay of that postseason, citing "that fat-headed ****." Starbucks is testing the idea of $1 cups of coffee with free refills as it attempts to stay competitive among more frugal customers.. The new, smaller cups will be on the menu unter their Italian name, Cicciobomba.A military plane carrying 18 officers and crew crashed Wednesday in northwestern Poland, killing at least seven people, officials said. The officers had been attending a flight safety conference in Warsaw. No, really. Wed, 23 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080123http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080123Here's a note from Carlos Murphy: "There will be a Valentine's day comedy show at Bossa Bistro February 14, 2008 this is the return of the much loved, much anticipated Bossa Comedy Show . This possibly could become an open mic in the future depending upon attendance. Comics that would like to perform should email kaleidoscopecomedy@yahoo.com or Carlos Murphy at carlosmurphy@hotmail.com. Come and support stand-up comedy but more importantly comedy in DC." Tue, 22 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080122http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080122After an exhausting 3-day weekend you probably need to kick back and relax with a comedy show ... Solly's Tavern at 8 p.m. Comedians in suits, and for once, not at a parole hearing. You can get the details at DCC4N (linked on the right). Fri, 18 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080118http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080118Magooby's Joke House gets a very nice write-up in the Baltimore Sun, in which you can learn the horrifying secret behind the name "Magooby." Thu, 17 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080117http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080117Go see Sheryl Underwood at the Improv this week. I've seen a lot of comedy shows, and the last time she was in town it was probably one of the best live shows I've ever seen. And I am not just saying this because we're both Republicans. Wed, 16 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080116http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080116Setting up Pastandup.com, I've come across a few new blogs ...... Tue, 15 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080115http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080115Now that Dcstandup.com is old enough to go to day care, I finally have the time for a new project. Mon, 14 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080114http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080114Here's the latest from the DCCF people: Thu, 10 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080110http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080110I checked out Dr. Dremo's last night, which mostly served as a crushing reminder that DR. DREMO'S IS ENDING. I remember the first ever open mic at that fine establishment (it was borderline awful) and it's pretty amazing what Curt Shackleford did with that place. Wed, 9 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080109http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080109The DCC4N people have struck again. Here's the latest, a showcase at Solly's Tavern: Tue, 8 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080108http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080108Some good news to share for a few DC comedy people: Mon, 7 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080107http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080107Ripped from the headlines of DC Comedy 4 Now -- new monthly showcase in Silver Spring called The Awesome Room. Show starts Jan. 31 and there's an interview with organizer Jake Young at the DCC4N blog. Go read it, I command you. (And FYI, the venue has been added to the calendar and Maryland Venues page.) Sat, 5 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080105http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080105I think I'd like to expand the venue listings -- offering a little more detail on the atmosphere of each place (for potential audience) and expanding the information on venues, giving each location its own distinct page to allow for more pictures and detailed descriptions of what goes on there. That's where you come in, show organizers -- if you want your venue to have its own page, e-mail a write-up with all the relevant information, along with any good photos or graphics, to chris@dcstandup.com. Here's a sample page using the DC Improv as a reference point. Fri, 4 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080104http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080104If you didn't see the notice on the front page, the Comedy Zone seems to have some expansion plans ... in a few weeks, they go to a two-venue format. On Fridays and Saturdays, the 8 p.m. show is at Floyd's in Alexandria, and the 10:15 show is at Vespucci's in Fairfax. Thu, 3 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080103http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080103Passing along this message from Jim Pate: Wed, 2 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080102http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080102Not to get schmaltzy, but next week (Jan. 7) Dcstandup.com turns five years old. I started the site primarily as a selfish way to get people to cough up info on open mics and showcases so I could use that info myself, and that week I posted a bare-bones show listing (what little data I had) and pages for four comics -- Jared Stern, KT Tatara, Erik Myers and myself. Tue, 1 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080101http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20080101Out: Hank Steuver's in/out lists Mon, 31 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071231http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071231 I've got this posted on the front page as well, but FYI in 2008 the show at the Bethesda Hyatt is going back to its original format -- one show on Saturdays. Fri, 28 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071228http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071228 We're quiet on the posting front because (shockingly) not much goes on this time of year. But in recognition of the fact that many of you will have a hard time getting over the Xmas to New Year's hump ... Sun, 23 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071223http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071223Unfortunate news from Baltimore as the Hamilton Arts Collective is closing its doors for the time being. It's a neat place which has hosted all kinds of comedy shows and classes in recent years. Here's wishing them good luck and speedy resolution to their woes in 2008. Meanwhile, here's the word straight from Steve at the HAC: Fri, 21 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071221http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071221There's a new open mic in the works in Fredericksburg, and the organizer wants to start getting the word out. We'll just pass this along straight up, from Steve Henry:... Thu, 20 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071220http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071220(Oldie, but goodie. Or at least mediocre-y.) Wed, 19 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071219http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071219 If you're looking for some holiday merriment this weekend, Jared Stern opens shows for Good for the Jews over at the Birchmere in Arlington. Tue, 18 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071218http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071218Pamela Anderson has filed for divorce just two months into her marriage with Rick Salomon. So for you all you hopeful future Mrs. Salomons keeping score, Rick now has both Hepatitis C and herpes. Go get 'em.Vladimir Putin assured Russians on Monday that he would gladly accept the position of prime minister when his term as president ends next year. He also triumphantly introduced a new law, effective next year, that will swap all the powers of the president and the prime minister.Presidential candidate Ron Paul raised a whopping $6 million through the Internet Monday, further raising expectations for what should be the MOST KICK-ASS CONCESSION PARTY EVER!President Bush indicated Monday that hopes to sign an ominbus spending bill from Congress this week, with the only possible holdups being a fight over Iraq funding, and Bush not being able to get his lucky signing pen back from Bobo the White House chimp.Japanese geneticists have managed to breed mice without any fear of cats. The next step: eliminating all fear of death, and then designing gliders that can be piloted by mice. You've been warned. Mon, 17 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071217http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071217Have you ever gotten the impression that the main function of blogs is to let people whine and complain about things in a public forum? Fri, 14 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071214http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071214One of the new Comedy Central darlings is God's Pottery, a fake Christian acoustic duo out of New York. Anyone seen them live or heard their album? The videos available on the Comedy Central site are, in a word, meh. ... Thu, 13 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071213http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071213Interesting long post from Aparna Nancherla on her experiences in L.A. for a Stand-Up for Diversity showcase hosted by NBC. Go check it out, I command you. Wed, 12 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071212http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071212Some people enjoy their live comedy in huge, impersonal venues with overpriced tickets. And someday, if we're ever lucky enough to play a theater, we will embrace those people with open arms ... Tue, 11 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071211http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071211Merriam-Webster has chosen the online gaming exclamation "w00t" as its Word of the Year, leading thousands of online gamers to ask the question, "what's a dictionary?"Scientists have uncovered the energy source that powers the Northern Lights. Here it is.Human evolution is speeding up. If you want proof, come see "I Take Requests" at the Hamilton Arts Collective on January 25.Eating red meat raises the risk of lung cancer. But not eating red meat raises the risk of being called a pussy. How about some easy answers for once, science?The U.S. Sentencing Commission has allowed the easing of crack cocaine sentences. Victory crack pipes all around!Bobby Petrino resigned as the coach of the Atlanta Falcons on Tuesday, leaving football fans everywhere stunned that the Falcons were actually being coached this year.Chimpanzees have outperformed college students in memory tests created by scientists in Japan. Some scientists believe the results are skewed because chimpanzees don't have fraternities. (Giovanni Diviacchi) Mon, 10 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071210http://www.dcstandup.com/monoblog/?day=20071210We upgraded the back-end tech stuff (and by "we" I mean my brother Dave, and thanks) and we're changing the mission a bit. After a few years of hoping for a flood of current-events jokes, we've come to the realization that the vast majority of DC comedians either a) don't watch the news; b) don't want to joke about the news; or c) want to do so but are generally lazy. So we're scrapping the all-news jokes format.