Stand-up Comedy

Description

Stand-up comedy is a comedic performance style where a comedian performs in front of a live audience, usually speaking directly to them with a series of jokes, anecdotes, and humorous stories. The performance is often characterized by a conversational tone and a focus on observational humor.

History

Stand-up comedy has its roots in the traditions of vaudeville and minstrel shows in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It evolved into its own distinct form in the mid-20th century with the rise of comedy clubs and television shows dedicated to stand-up performances. The genre gained widespread popularity with comedians like Lenny Bruce, Richard Pryor, and George Carlin, who pushed the boundaries of social commentary and personal storytelling.