What’s Bugging You?
A great stand up comedy premise usually begins with a negative opinion. But there’s a common misconception that having a negative opinion means you must feel hate, or strong anger. And sure, if you do feel hate (and it’s funny), or you do carry burning anger (and it’s funny), then go for it!
But most negative opinions are simply things that annoy you, your pet peeves, the things that get under your skin. They can also be things that confuse you, or cause you doubt, fear or even paranoia. Negative opinions sometimes come from experiences: If someone is being an idiot, or picking on you, or your boss never gives you a break, you develop negative opinions.
Negative opinions are anything that make you think “I wish this was different!” or “There’s too little of this and too much of that!” or “I don’t like the way public opinion is going on this issue!” Your job as a standup comedian is to continually excavate your negative opinions.
Dig Deep with Your Negative Opinions in Stand Up Comedy
Take some time in order to make your negative opinion in Stand Up Comedy Routines as specific as possible.
Greg Dean, the professor of stand up comedy
Do a little personal digging and ask yourself: “What exactly is my issue with that person or event?” You’ve noticed something’s wrong, but what, exactly? If you are confused, what exactly is confusing you?
If you’re paranoid, who exactly is following you? And why? Being specific will make your standup comedy routine unique. And if you get really good with your paranoia, you’ll create some hilarious routines!
For example, I had a student say he was a recovering Catholic and wanted to do a routine about the Catholic church. I suggested he go home and think about it, in order to get as specific as possible. The next week, he came back to class and declared: “The nuns lied to me”. Aha! Because he’d gotten specific, I could ask him pointed questions about the nuns which led to some really good jokes.
When creating your standup comedy routine, your negative opinion is one of the most important things to explore, and specify. More than just a complaint, it’s the foundation of your premise, and the angle from which you’ll address your subject matter. Enjoy your negative opinions!
Greg Dean’s Stand-Up Comedy Classes
Greg teaches his techniques in two classes. Level 1 – How to Build a Stand Up Comedy Routine is the beginning class (sometimes called the “101 class”) that teaches you everything you need to know to build and perform a stand-up comedy routine. Level 2: Writing & Performing at the Improv (also known as the “201 class”) guides you through the process of building a routine and preparing to perform at one of the world’s most prestigious comedy clubs the Hollywood Improv.
The Greg Dean Method is taught in two classes: Level 1 and then Level 2. Students begin with the Level 1, no matter their years of experience, and move onto the Level 2 class. Greg teaches a unique method, and students cannot succeed in Level 2 if they haven’t learned the fundamentals of his method in the Level 1 Class.
Free On Demand Webinar: How to Build a Stand Up Comedy Routine
Are you ready to fast-track your stand-up comedy career? In this on-demand webinar, discover proven techniques and skills that can shave years off your journey to success! Learn how the pros build a compelling and hilarious stand-up routine with expert guidance. Don’t miss out on this chance to see how you can achieve your dreams faster.
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Greg Dean’s Stand Up Comedy Books
Through my books, including Step by Step to Stand-Up Comedy, I aim to demystify the art of stand-up comedy. I cover everything from writing jokes and rehearsing routines to overcoming stage fright and handling hecklers. My workbooks provide practical exercises to help comedians at all levels refine their skills and deliver compelling performances. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your act, my books offer a comprehensive guide to becoming a successful comedian.
