Comic Inspirations and Aspirations

posted by Lani Stack
Flynn Marketing Coordinator, Editor

I've always envied natural storytellers, particularly those who can weave an entrancing tale with an unexpected ending—all the more better if that ending tickles my funny bone.

While I've been complimented on my sassy, if sarcastic, wit—and have been fortunate to have the skills to make a living as a professional writer and editor—I find it nearly impossible to spin a spectacular story or tall tale verbally... or to remember a punchline. My respect for those who have that natural talent, or the dedication to develop these skills, is huge. Admiration is part of what draws me to the Flynn's quarterly Stand Up, Sit Down, and Laugh comedy shows. Of course, the opportunity to spend an evening listening to truly funny people is the main allure.

Last night's FlynnSpace show, the ninth installment of the popular series, showcased the talents of Burlington-area community members Wendy Whaples Scully, 17-year-old Mike Robideau (who graduates from high school this weekend), State Rep. Jason Lorber, and FlynnArts instructor (and show emcee) Josie Leavitt.

Scully shocked the audience by performing a strip-show, of sorts, while sharing her observations on male domestic blindness. Robideau mused on job responsibilities and Big Macs, among other topics. Lorber debuted new material—and charmingly flubbed a few punchlines—while sharing stories of his one-year-old son, Max, and observations of the social dynamics of Burlington's Church Street. And Leavitt spoke of her love for dog, her veterinarian's not-so-subtle manipulations of the human/canine bond, the unfairness (and sheer boredom) of playing with children, speeding tickets, and grungy underwear.

See, it's at all not funny when I recall the show. But the four comedians were truly hilarious. I laughed out loud. Everyone in the room laughed out loud. But don't take my word for it. Come see Stand Up, Sit Down, and Laugh for yourself. The next show will be Tuesday, August 21 at 7:30 pm. (We'll post more information on the Flynn website soon.)

In the meantime, I'm thinking I might benefit from some training in the comedic arts, and just may try out FlynnArts' one-day comedy blitz, A Taste of Standup (for beginners), on Tuesday, July 10 from 6 to 9 pm.

Those with some standup experience may enjoy FlynnArts’ Advanced Standup Intensive on Wednesdays, June 20, 27, and July 11, and Monday, July 2, all sessions are held from 6 to 8 pm, and the class culminates in a FlynnSpace show on Friday, July 13.

Both courses are taught by Josie Leavitt. Information and registration: 802-652-4548, ext. 4, or flynnarts@flynncenter.org. Or download the FlynnArts Summer Camps & Classes brochure, paying special attention to pages 11 and 15.


photographs of (left to right) Mike Robideau, Josie Leavitt, and Jason Lorber are by Lani Stack