I was raving to a woman at work the other day about a book my mom lent me, Melissa Gilbert's "Eat Pray Love"
Then I realized the woman I was talking to was a atheist in the midst of a crusade to improve her eating habits.
"Hmm," I told her. "If you wrote this book, it would just be called 'Love.'"
No one appreciates how funny I am.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Monday, December 29, 2008
Upcoming Stuff
Upcoming Writing
Friday, January 2 - The Edmonton Journal
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, January 19 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, January 20 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Dan's writing on relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Quiet month as far as self-promotion goes.
This upcoming article may very well be my final regular article for the Journal. If you like it (or my humor writing in general), feel free to email them and let them know you enjoyed it.
I'm going to miss doing those articles. If I'm honest with myself, I'm also going to miss my mini-celebrity status. I wonder if this is how the guys from Warrant felt after Nirvana and Pearl Jam single-handedly erased glam rock from the scene.
It's also a great motivator for me to start looking for other places to publish my work as well as finish the two books I'm working on. Dating for Shy Guys is nearly finished. The other--an untitled book about pro-wrestling--is just getting started. In the meantime, it's time to get off my butt and start hustling for more writing work. So far I've got queries going out to Pro Wrestling Illustrated and Buddhism Today--no one can accuse me of not being diverse in my interests.
Anyway, if this is the end, thanks to everyone who read my articles and supported my writing in the Journal and ed magazine over the last three years and a half years or so. Being able to write for the paper I've read all my life was a dream come true and thank you all for the opportunity.
(And if you know anyone interested in buying funny articles about the rather mundane life of a stand-up comic, let me know. I'm not too proud to beg for work--especially when it's something I love doing)
Friday, January 2 - The Edmonton Journal
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, January 19 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, January 20 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Dan's writing on relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Quiet month as far as self-promotion goes.
This upcoming article may very well be my final regular article for the Journal. If you like it (or my humor writing in general), feel free to email them and let them know you enjoyed it.
I'm going to miss doing those articles. If I'm honest with myself, I'm also going to miss my mini-celebrity status. I wonder if this is how the guys from Warrant felt after Nirvana and Pearl Jam single-handedly erased glam rock from the scene.
It's also a great motivator for me to start looking for other places to publish my work as well as finish the two books I'm working on. Dating for Shy Guys is nearly finished. The other--an untitled book about pro-wrestling--is just getting started. In the meantime, it's time to get off my butt and start hustling for more writing work. So far I've got queries going out to Pro Wrestling Illustrated and Buddhism Today--no one can accuse me of not being diverse in my interests.
Anyway, if this is the end, thanks to everyone who read my articles and supported my writing in the Journal and ed magazine over the last three years and a half years or so. Being able to write for the paper I've read all my life was a dream come true and thank you all for the opportunity.
(And if you know anyone interested in buying funny articles about the rather mundane life of a stand-up comic, let me know. I'm not too proud to beg for work--especially when it's something I love doing)
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Dan vs. Inner Peace
I'm pretty good at inner peace...as long as I'm in my room or just reading about it.
As soon as I start dealing with other people and the realities of life, my sense of enlightenment and one-ness with the universe is rudely awakened.
As the saying goes, "If you think you're enlightened, spend time with your parents."
SOmetimes I think that's why those monks retreat in the first place. Because they're smart enough to realize the demands of the world make it hard to maintain inner quiet.
The trouble is, what good do you do the world by retreating from it?
I would probably be more enlightened if I lived on a mountain top somewhere.
But I wouldn't have nearly as much fun.
As soon as I start dealing with other people and the realities of life, my sense of enlightenment and one-ness with the universe is rudely awakened.
As the saying goes, "If you think you're enlightened, spend time with your parents."
SOmetimes I think that's why those monks retreat in the first place. Because they're smart enough to realize the demands of the world make it hard to maintain inner quiet.
The trouble is, what good do you do the world by retreating from it?
I would probably be more enlightened if I lived on a mountain top somewhere.
But I wouldn't have nearly as much fun.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Football and the Power of Belief
I found this article this article kind of touching.
Maybe it's cause I'm a football fan.
I don't know if that's it though. I'm also a fan of the wrestling business and generally in the pro wrestling biz, we frown on deliberately splitting a crowd reaction.
I'm also not a big fan of religion in secular settings, and though it isn't explicitly stated in the article, I have a suspicion Grapevine is a fundamentalist school. Regardless, if you're going to hold an institution--religious or otherwise--responsible for its wrongs, I think you're honor-bound to give them points when they do good things as well. Otherwise you're just picking your spots.
And when you read it, you might think, so what?
Well, for me this is the what.
I've seen myself the power of believing in people. Working in the hospitals...answering the Distress Lines...even in comedy, wrestling, or even in your personal life...people will live up to the faith you have in them(*).
It seems like such a small thing, in some ways it seems like NOTHING, but it makes an enormous difference.
Little things have big impacts and belief does a lot of powerful good things. For the person being believed in...and also for the believer.
Happy Holidays, everybody.
(*) On the flip side, if you expect the worst from people, they are perfectly capable of living down to that too. I know which I prefer, but some folks enjoy being miserable and I while I don't understand it, it isn't my place to judge.
Maybe it's cause I'm a football fan.
I don't know if that's it though. I'm also a fan of the wrestling business and generally in the pro wrestling biz, we frown on deliberately splitting a crowd reaction.
I'm also not a big fan of religion in secular settings, and though it isn't explicitly stated in the article, I have a suspicion Grapevine is a fundamentalist school. Regardless, if you're going to hold an institution--religious or otherwise--responsible for its wrongs, I think you're honor-bound to give them points when they do good things as well. Otherwise you're just picking your spots.
And when you read it, you might think, so what?
Well, for me this is the what.
I've seen myself the power of believing in people. Working in the hospitals...answering the Distress Lines...even in comedy, wrestling, or even in your personal life...people will live up to the faith you have in them(*).
It seems like such a small thing, in some ways it seems like NOTHING, but it makes an enormous difference.
Little things have big impacts and belief does a lot of powerful good things. For the person being believed in...and also for the believer.
Happy Holidays, everybody.
(*) On the flip side, if you expect the worst from people, they are perfectly capable of living down to that too. I know which I prefer, but some folks enjoy being miserable and I while I don't understand it, it isn't my place to judge.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Why Buddhists Don't Have Television Sets
Because in the inner calm department, thirteen seconds of an NFL game can undo two years of meditation.
Namaste.
Namaste.
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Random Musings on Comedy
Upcoming Comedy
Friday, December 5 - PRIVATE FUNCTION, Drayton Valley
Saturday, December 6 - PRIVATE FUNCTION, Edmonton
Saturday, December 13 - PRIVATE FUNCTION, Edmonton
Monday, December 15 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, January 2
Current article can be found here.
Other Appearances
World War Wrestling - Friday, December 12 - Fulton Place Community League POSTPONED UNTIL JANUARY
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Dan's Wrestling Blog is here
I got into an argument a couple days ago with another comic. We were arguing over whether an out-of-town headliner was any good.
It should have been an easy question. I found the comic in question unwatchable for anything longer than two or three minutes at a time. It was my least favorite kind of comedy: empty calorie comedy based on cheerleading, energy, and stock premises coupled with relentless shilling for merchandise.
It wasn't to my taste, but I had a hard time saying it was bad.
Maybe it’s because I’m wishy-washy and conflict averse.
Or maybe it’s because--at the end of the day--the crowd ate up this headliner with a fork and spoon. They loved the show.
That’s something.
After all, being able to keep and audience involved and interested in a 100% content-free performance (not to mention having them buy your merchandise afterwards) takes a lot of talent. And let’s face it, if you want to be a stand-up comic, but you can’t write and you won’t steal, you don‘t have a lot of options left.
This is one of the interesting things about comedy culture. It values originality and innovation over doing what has worked in the past.
The wrestling business tends towards the opposite end of the spectrum. In wrestling, you’re encouraged to learn from everybody, whether you like what they do or not.
They also encourage wrestlers to learn how to work using a lot of stock stuff first and concern themselves with “getting their own shit in” or doing something different only AFTER they’ve mastered the fundamentals.
A lot of it has to do with the nature of the art. In comedy, you’re on your own. In wrestling, you’re working with other guys. So it’s only natural, wrestling would be more conservative about “going into business for yourself.”
Wrestling is pragmatic--the best wrestler in the world is the guy who sells the most tickets. Period.
Comedy, on the other hand, doesn’t judge itself on whether or not the crowd liked it. Heck, sometimes comics give the most props to guys who go out of their way to alienate the audience.
Who’s right? Who’s wrong?
I don’t know. I believe that each performer has to decide for his- or herself. I also believe that no one else has the right to judge them for their choice. Just because you or I doesn’t like something doesn’t make it bad.
Besides, I have no control over what someone else does in their act. When it comes to show business, like it or not, the only thing I have power over is our own performance.
Whether I like it or not.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Mom Has A New Car
So we all piled in and went for a drive. It felt like the nineteen fifties--Let's go for a ride in the new car!!
It also felt like taking my life in my hands, me in the front seat, the sister and brother in law in the back, and mom driving, prattling happily away about how she "doesn't quite know where everything is and what everything does yet."
ME: Hey, my arse is on fire.
Apparently this car has heated seats.
Cool.
It also felt like taking my life in my hands, me in the front seat, the sister and brother in law in the back, and mom driving, prattling happily away about how she "doesn't quite know where everything is and what everything does yet."
ME: Hey, my arse is on fire.
Apparently this car has heated seats.
Cool.
Friday, November 28, 2008
New Living Article Up
It's about my life as a Ultimate Fighting Machine.
Check it out here.
Have a great weekend everybody.
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, November 25 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, November 26 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, November 27 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, November 28 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, November 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, November 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, November 28
Friday, December 26
Current article can be found here.
Other Appearances
World War Wrestling - Friday, December 12 - Fulton Place Community League
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Check it out here.
Have a great weekend everybody.
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, November 25 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, November 26 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, November 27 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, November 28 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, November 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, November 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, November 28
Friday, December 26
Current article can be found here.
Other Appearances
World War Wrestling - Friday, December 12 - Fulton Place Community League
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Dan Gets Tortured in the Name of Art.
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, November 25 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, November 26 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, November 27 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, November 28 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, November 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, November 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, November 28
Friday, December 26
Current article can be found here.
Other Appearances
World War Wrestling - Friday, December 12 - Fulton Place Community League
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Friday I spent a couple hours hanging by my hands from the ceiling while a guy with a knife tortured me. The knife was okay; the hanging less pleasant.
An earlier text exchange between me and the Slayer
HER: I’m working today
ME: Cool. I’m going to be tortured to death by a rogue military operative.
HER: Have fun. C U tonight.
The woman in my life is very understanding.
Yes, it was a movie. Yes, it was fun.
Also, very, very uncomfortable. Apparently, hanging from the ceiling is not great for the circulation in your hands.
It probably didn’t help that I had to keep making jokes during the filming. I can’t help myself. I just like to see if I can make guys break character.
Rogue Military Guy: You’re awake. I’ve got fifteen hours to kill. Tell me what I want to know or I‘m going to see how long I can make you hurt without dying.
ME: You had me at “You’re awake.”
He laughed. On the other hand, it meant we had to do another take.
But it was worth it...probably. I’ll know for sure once I get feeling back in my right thumb.
Tuesday, November 25 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, November 26 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, November 27 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, November 28 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, November 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, November 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, November 28
Friday, December 26
Current article can be found here.
Other Appearances
World War Wrestling - Friday, December 12 - Fulton Place Community League
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Friday I spent a couple hours hanging by my hands from the ceiling while a guy with a knife tortured me. The knife was okay; the hanging less pleasant.
An earlier text exchange between me and the Slayer
HER: I’m working today
ME: Cool. I’m going to be tortured to death by a rogue military operative.
HER: Have fun. C U tonight.
The woman in my life is very understanding.
Yes, it was a movie. Yes, it was fun.
Also, very, very uncomfortable. Apparently, hanging from the ceiling is not great for the circulation in your hands.
It probably didn’t help that I had to keep making jokes during the filming. I can’t help myself. I just like to see if I can make guys break character.
Rogue Military Guy: You’re awake. I’ve got fifteen hours to kill. Tell me what I want to know or I‘m going to see how long I can make you hurt without dying.
ME: You had me at “You’re awake.”
He laughed. On the other hand, it meant we had to do another take.
But it was worth it...probably. I’ll know for sure once I get feeling back in my right thumb.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Dan's Birthday Extravaganza
My birthday party is tomorrow (Saturday, November 15) at Rosario's Pub on 11715 - 108 Ave in Edmonton. We're singing Karaoke.
If you're around, feel free to stop by. If I know you, it will be great to see you, and if I don't I'd love the chance to meet you.
I'll be there around nine.
And if you can't make it tomorrow, here's my upcoming schedule.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, November 17 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, November 25 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, November 26 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, November 27 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, November 28 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, November 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, November 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, November 28
Friday, December 26
Current article can be found here.
Other Appearances
World War Wrestling - Friday, December 12 - Fulton Place Community League
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
If you're around, feel free to stop by. If I know you, it will be great to see you, and if I don't I'd love the chance to meet you.
I'll be there around nine.
And if you can't make it tomorrow, here's my upcoming schedule.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, November 17 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, November 25 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, November 26 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, November 27 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, November 28 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, November 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, November 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, November 28
Friday, December 26
Current article can be found here.
Other Appearances
World War Wrestling - Friday, December 12 - Fulton Place Community League
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Back in Wrasslin'
I am sitting among a pile of CDS, trying to decide on my theme music.
Clearly, I have the toughest life ever.
The reason I'm picking out potential theme music is because I'm involved with World War Wrestling, which are hosting their inaugural show at Fulton Place Community League in Edmonton this Saturday night.
It's the first non-MPW show I've ever been involved in. I'm nervous and excited at the same time about being in a different locker room. I also have some mixed emotions since the memorial service for Trev was just a couple days ago and it's hard to think of wrestling without thinking of him, my friend and broadcast partner for so long.
It did feel good to see everyone at the service though and brought back a lot of great memories. It's sad that it took Ripper's passing to make me remember and really appreciate those guys. I've learned from all of them and had a blast doing it.
I am thrilled to be back in wrestling though. It's been a while since I've been involved in a show, and this would be as good a time as any to thank Massive Damage for taking a chance on me a few years ago by sticking an untested internet geek in the booth as a commentator (technically, I met Massive through Roni the Super-Fan, so I guess I should credit her with "breaking me into the business").
Anyway, here's the promo material, straight from the 3W Facebook Group.
"World War Wrestling presents their first show this SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH.
Date: Saturday, November 8, 2008
Time: Doors at 6:30pm, show at 7:00pm
Location: Fulton Place Community League
Street: 6115 Fulton Road
City: Edmonton, AB
Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at Eden Gentlemens Club on 97st, or at the door, but get there early because this show WILL sell out.
The main event features JD MICHAELS returning to Edmonton after making a huge name for himself in the US and OVW, to take on SCOTTY PUTTY, who is hot off a 1st place win this weekend in the Alberta Bodybuilding Association Fall Classic. This match is a qualifier for the 3W Cup!
The show also features BRADY ROBERTS taking on ECLIPSE in a qualifier for the 3W Cup!
Also in action will be LEE DAWSON, another star from the USA coming in to test himself against the competition in 3W! Just signed on is former MPW star EVAN INFERNO! Also appearing are DERYCK CROSSE, BOBBY FLETCHER, SHAGGY RAY CYRUS, PETE POWERS, HEAVY METAL, and many more!
Don't miss the show THIS SATURDAY NIGHT!"
Hope to see you there.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, November 17 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, November 25 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, November 26 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, November 27 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, November 28 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, November 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, November 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, November 28
Friday, December 26
Current article can be found here.
Other Upcoming Appearances
World War Wrestling - Fulton Place Community Hall, Edmonton
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Clearly, I have the toughest life ever.
The reason I'm picking out potential theme music is because I'm involved with World War Wrestling, which are hosting their inaugural show at Fulton Place Community League in Edmonton this Saturday night.
It's the first non-MPW show I've ever been involved in. I'm nervous and excited at the same time about being in a different locker room. I also have some mixed emotions since the memorial service for Trev was just a couple days ago and it's hard to think of wrestling without thinking of him, my friend and broadcast partner for so long.
It did feel good to see everyone at the service though and brought back a lot of great memories. It's sad that it took Ripper's passing to make me remember and really appreciate those guys. I've learned from all of them and had a blast doing it.
I am thrilled to be back in wrestling though. It's been a while since I've been involved in a show, and this would be as good a time as any to thank Massive Damage for taking a chance on me a few years ago by sticking an untested internet geek in the booth as a commentator (technically, I met Massive through Roni the Super-Fan, so I guess I should credit her with "breaking me into the business").
Anyway, here's the promo material, straight from the 3W Facebook Group.
"World War Wrestling presents their first show this SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH.
Date: Saturday, November 8, 2008
Time: Doors at 6:30pm, show at 7:00pm
Location: Fulton Place Community League
Street: 6115 Fulton Road
City: Edmonton, AB
Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at Eden Gentlemens Club on 97st, or at the door, but get there early because this show WILL sell out.
The main event features JD MICHAELS returning to Edmonton after making a huge name for himself in the US and OVW, to take on SCOTTY PUTTY, who is hot off a 1st place win this weekend in the Alberta Bodybuilding Association Fall Classic. This match is a qualifier for the 3W Cup!
The show also features BRADY ROBERTS taking on ECLIPSE in a qualifier for the 3W Cup!
Also in action will be LEE DAWSON, another star from the USA coming in to test himself against the competition in 3W! Just signed on is former MPW star EVAN INFERNO! Also appearing are DERYCK CROSSE, BOBBY FLETCHER, SHAGGY RAY CYRUS, PETE POWERS, HEAVY METAL, and many more!
Don't miss the show THIS SATURDAY NIGHT!"
Hope to see you there.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, November 17 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, November 25 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, November 26 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, November 27 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, November 28 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, November 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, November 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, November 28
Friday, December 26
Current article can be found here.
Other Upcoming Appearances
World War Wrestling - Fulton Place Community Hall, Edmonton
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Dan's Upcoming Schedule
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, November 17 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, November 25 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, November 26 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, November 27 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, November 28 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, November 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, November 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, November 28
Friday, December 26
Current article can be found here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Monday, November 17 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, November 25 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, November 26 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, November 27 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, November 28 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, November 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, November 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, November 28
Friday, December 26
Current article can be found here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Friday, October 31, 2008
Halloween Article Up
My latest Journal article is up here. I don't know who came up with the headline, but kudos to them. I love it.
I also wanted to call people's attention to this article.
Volunteering on the Distress line is still something I consider one of the best things I've ever done. It did more than help other people. It helped me become a better person, and almost every really good thing that ever happened to me happened AFTER I started volunteering there.
So if you think you might be interested or know someone who would, I'd encourage you to give The Support Network a call at (780) 482-0198 and talk to the volunteer coordinator.
I also wanted to call people's attention to this article.
Volunteering on the Distress line is still something I consider one of the best things I've ever done. It did more than help other people. It helped me become a better person, and almost every really good thing that ever happened to me happened AFTER I started volunteering there.
So if you think you might be interested or know someone who would, I'd encourage you to give The Support Network a call at (780) 482-0198 and talk to the volunteer coordinator.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
RIP Ripper
Trevor Grimolfson, who was my broadcast partner hosting the TV show MPW Madness, passed away suddenly yesterday at 38 years old.
To say we were an odd couple would be an understatement--me, the stand-up comic/writer/internet nerd and him, a loud, larger-than-life tattoo-artist. But despite our different backgrounds, the Ripper and I always got along both professionally and personally. There were times we might have had TOO much fun; if there was a blooper reel of our tapings they would include some blown lines, some obscene jokes, and at one point--if memory serves me--a hip-hop battle.
Everyone who knew Trev has stories about his big heart. I remember him being a big part of Heavy Metal's eighteenth birthday party and making sure everyone got home safely. There were some more colorful stories as well, and the punchline to one of them "YOU BETTER GET SOME MORE GUYS!" became an oft-used catchphrase in the MPW locker room.
Trevor loved his family. He was generous to a fault and would got to any length to take care of his family, his friends and loved ones. I met Tash and Little T on many occasions and my heart goes out to them as well as the rest of his family and friends.
I fell out of touch with Trevor over the last year or so. The last time I saw him was a chance meeting in a karaoke bar, where in true Trevor fashion, he paid for my pizza and rapped out a Tupac song.
The circumstances around Trevor's passing are as controversial as the way he lived. I feel I should comment, but can't find it in myself to start passing judgement or laying blame for either the way he lived or the way he died.
I can say this though.
Heaven better get some more guys.
I miss you Trev.
ADDENDUM - Incidentally, if anybody has copies of the MPW Madness TV show, I'd love to have copies, since I don't have any of our television work. It would be a fitting way to remember the Ripper.)
To say we were an odd couple would be an understatement--me, the stand-up comic/writer/internet nerd and him, a loud, larger-than-life tattoo-artist. But despite our different backgrounds, the Ripper and I always got along both professionally and personally. There were times we might have had TOO much fun; if there was a blooper reel of our tapings they would include some blown lines, some obscene jokes, and at one point--if memory serves me--a hip-hop battle.
Everyone who knew Trev has stories about his big heart. I remember him being a big part of Heavy Metal's eighteenth birthday party and making sure everyone got home safely. There were some more colorful stories as well, and the punchline to one of them "YOU BETTER GET SOME MORE GUYS!" became an oft-used catchphrase in the MPW locker room.
Trevor loved his family. He was generous to a fault and would got to any length to take care of his family, his friends and loved ones. I met Tash and Little T on many occasions and my heart goes out to them as well as the rest of his family and friends.
I fell out of touch with Trevor over the last year or so. The last time I saw him was a chance meeting in a karaoke bar, where in true Trevor fashion, he paid for my pizza and rapped out a Tupac song.
The circumstances around Trevor's passing are as controversial as the way he lived. I feel I should comment, but can't find it in myself to start passing judgement or laying blame for either the way he lived or the way he died.
I can say this though.
Heaven better get some more guys.
I miss you Trev.
ADDENDUM - Incidentally, if anybody has copies of the MPW Madness TV show, I'd love to have copies, since I don't have any of our television work. It would be a fitting way to remember the Ripper.)
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Big Words, Little Words
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 31
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Recently at my office job, I had the assignment of paring down the City of Edmonton's emergency plan for easy reading.
At first I didn't think I could do it. It was incomprehensible.
Finally, out of desperation, I just started cutting words out of each sentenceI am until at last meaning rose out of the thicket of bureaucratese.
THEIR VERSION:
The initial emergency response of emergency services first
responders will result in an on-scene assessment of the situation. If
it is determined that the situation is beyond that of a normal
response, they will (in consultation with other agencies as
appropriate) determine the extent of the response that will be
required to deal effectively with the emergency, and notify the OEP
accordingly.
MY VERSION:
"The first guys there check everything out and then call for help if they need it."
I am a big fan of brevity. So much so, I considered eliminating 'big' from the previous sentence.
Maybe it's the stand up comedian in me. Less words = less confused audience + "punchier punchline" = Bigger and better laughs.
On the other hand, there's something to be said for being verbose. I'm writing a book right now (Dating for Shy Guys). I want the book to be as simple as possible so that someone with virtually no dating experience (like me two or three years ago) can pick it up and follow the bouncing ball.
It makes me realize how simple dating really is. I feel people are going to read the book and go, "Well, duh, everybody knows that (*)." I almost feel like I should add a few acronyms, jargon, and verbal razzle-dazzle to make myself sound smarter and more expert.
We'll see what happens, I guess.
(*) I've noticed Everybody knows a lot. I've also noticed that the gulf between what Everybody KNOWS and what Everybody actually DOES is much wider than Everybody cares to admit.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Dan Hits A Car With A Hammer For Charity. It Was Fun
Here’s one more reason I love living in Edmonton.
I was walking through the quad at the University of Alberta when a guy called out to me: “Hey, man. Want to bust up a car for two dollars?”
I looked at him thoughtfully and said. “Can it be any car?”
Sadly, my car-busting-up options were limited to the Chrysler Le Baron set up on a tarp. For two dollars, I could hit it with either a baseball bat, or a small sledgehammer. The money raised went to the Kidney Foundation.
“The hammer does more damage,” the guy--whose name was Chris--told me. “But the bat feels way more satisfying.”
He was right on both counts.
New Living Article comes out this Friday (Oct 31). It's on Zombies, which is apropos, I think.
I was walking through the quad at the University of Alberta when a guy called out to me: “Hey, man. Want to bust up a car for two dollars?”
I looked at him thoughtfully and said. “Can it be any car?”
Sadly, my car-busting-up options were limited to the Chrysler Le Baron set up on a tarp. For two dollars, I could hit it with either a baseball bat, or a small sledgehammer. The money raised went to the Kidney Foundation.
“The hammer does more damage,” the guy--whose name was Chris--told me. “But the bat feels way more satisfying.”
He was right on both counts.
New Living Article comes out this Friday (Oct 31). It's on Zombies, which is apropos, I think.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Entertaining Links/Serious Links
Couple of the best stuff I've read recently.
Patrick Hruby's column here is funny, although it helps if you're an NFL fan. If you don't know anything about the Favre/Lions saga, go here to get up to speed. Basically, quarterback Brett Favre was accused of giving the Detroit Lions (a team he doesn't play for) information on his former team the Green Bay Packers.
I also really like this column by Ciaran Healy. Not funny at all, but it's good writing, and I think there's more than a grain of truth in what he's saying. Food for thought.
Patrick Hruby's column here is funny, although it helps if you're an NFL fan. If you don't know anything about the Favre/Lions saga, go here to get up to speed. Basically, quarterback Brett Favre was accused of giving the Detroit Lions (a team he doesn't play for) information on his former team the Green Bay Packers.
I also really like this column by Ciaran Healy. Not funny at all, but it's good writing, and I think there's more than a grain of truth in what he's saying. Food for thought.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
"Screaming Like Banshees"
The Undead invaded Edmonton last night.
And I was proud to be a part of it.
The River City Zombie Committee held a Zombie Prom, which is exactly what it sounds like. We all dressed up like zombies, walked down Whyte Avenue in character ("Braaiins, Braiins")...then took the LRT to Jasper Avenue ("Traiinns...traiins.") and headed down that way.
It was fun. We got some strange looks and a lot of people taking pictures with their cellphones. There were some great costumes too.
I'll post a link to some pics when I see them.
My favorite part was staggering by the bars and liquor stores with my ID held up or 'attacking' a group in a car while they giggled and took pictures.
Shuffling, moaning and groaning has never been so much fun.
Afterwards we went to the Deadmonton horror festival where I saw Night of the Creeps for the first time since Junior High School.
I remember watching it with my friend Chuck and loving it. I wasn't sure if seeing it again it would be as good as I remembered.
It was even better.
What made it an even more cool experience was that Night of the Creeps isn't available on DVD so this is the only way I was ever going to get a chance to see it again.
And I was proud to be a part of it.
The River City Zombie Committee held a Zombie Prom, which is exactly what it sounds like. We all dressed up like zombies, walked down Whyte Avenue in character ("Braaiins, Braiins")...then took the LRT to Jasper Avenue ("Traiinns...traiins.") and headed down that way.
It was fun. We got some strange looks and a lot of people taking pictures with their cellphones. There were some great costumes too.
I'll post a link to some pics when I see them.
My favorite part was staggering by the bars and liquor stores with my ID held up or 'attacking' a group in a car while they giggled and took pictures.
Shuffling, moaning and groaning has never been so much fun.
Afterwards we went to the Deadmonton horror festival where I saw Night of the Creeps for the first time since Junior High School.
I remember watching it with my friend Chuck and loving it. I wasn't sure if seeing it again it would be as good as I remembered.
It was even better.
What made it an even more cool experience was that Night of the Creeps isn't available on DVD so this is the only way I was ever going to get a chance to see it again.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
McDonalds is Open and Other Excuses
This is a quote I read off retired pro-wrestler Lance Storm's site.
"Indy shows always have an excuse for a bad gate: a local football game, bad weather, you name it. Tracey Smoothers had the best excuse, which he jokingly used in SMW. “McDonalds is open, you can’t compete with that!” There is a great Stu Hart quote that I prefer to use, “If you give them what they want, they’ll come out.” Even the best excuse in the world only says fans would rather do something else than see your show.
I love both the Smothers quote (Lance misspelled it) and Hart's rejoinder. I think it's something all of us in the entertainment business would do to remember.
"Indy shows always have an excuse for a bad gate: a local football game, bad weather, you name it. Tracey Smoothers had the best excuse, which he jokingly used in SMW. “McDonalds is open, you can’t compete with that!” There is a great Stu Hart quote that I prefer to use, “If you give them what they want, they’ll come out.” Even the best excuse in the world only says fans would rather do something else than see your show.
I love both the Smothers quote (Lance misspelled it) and Hart's rejoinder. I think it's something all of us in the entertainment business would do to remember.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Reasons I Love Writing #2464
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, October 21 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 17
Friday, October 31
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
You can make anything interesting.
Take this blog.
This guy's gimmick is, he's going to listen to audio clips of Eckhart "As Seen On Oprah" Tolle for THREE years.
Wow. To me that sounds crazy and boring and completely missing the point of Tolle's writing at the same time.
Yet the guy is writing about it.
And damned if he hasn't made it interesting.
I still think his mission is crazy and boring and missing the point (*).
But it's also compelling reading.
In the words of my late brother, "It doesn't matter if you win or lose, so long as it makes for a good story."
Good luck, buddy
I'll be reading.
(*) Then again, in his defense, "crazy, boring, and completely missing the point" would be an accurate description of MOST people's life paths--mine included.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Latest Living Article is up.
You can read it HERE.
Also, I have a few new posts on hotchicksandstrangers and the Elton John song "I Don't Want To Go On With You Like That" stuck in my head.
Consider yourselves updated.
Upcoming Comedy
Saturday, October 18 - Fort McMurray
Tuesday, October 21 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 17
Friday, October 31
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Also, I have a few new posts on hotchicksandstrangers and the Elton John song "I Don't Want To Go On With You Like That" stuck in my head.
Consider yourselves updated.
Upcoming Comedy
Saturday, October 18 - Fort McMurray
Tuesday, October 21 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 17
Friday, October 31
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Makin' Movies
I got a small role in a TV pilot yesterday. My role was being knocked unconscious by the butt end of a rifle and stuffed in the back of a van.
At least I survived this time (although by all accounts, I am to be tortured to death in a later scene). Whether I'm a zombie, a thug, or a bartender, my role usually involves a quick and violent death (or in the case of one episode of MPW Madness, getting a pie in the face).
It was interesting acting in a full mask and body suit. It was an interesting challenge because I had to make all my reactions bigger with my body to get across what my character was feeling. I realize not many people are going to be paying attention to "Cleaner 02," but it keeps things interesting for me. My pro-wrestling buddies were right; you do have to make everything bigger when you're wearing a mask.
One of the other guys at the shoot was really cool. He's a bouncer/professional hypnotist/paintball enthusiast. Needless to say, he was a lot of fun to talk with.
And I thought I had diverse interests.
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, October 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, October 15 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, October 18 - Fort McMurray
Tuesday, October 21 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 17
Friday, October 31
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
At least I survived this time (although by all accounts, I am to be tortured to death in a later scene). Whether I'm a zombie, a thug, or a bartender, my role usually involves a quick and violent death (or in the case of one episode of MPW Madness, getting a pie in the face).
It was interesting acting in a full mask and body suit. It was an interesting challenge because I had to make all my reactions bigger with my body to get across what my character was feeling. I realize not many people are going to be paying attention to "Cleaner 02," but it keeps things interesting for me. My pro-wrestling buddies were right; you do have to make everything bigger when you're wearing a mask.
One of the other guys at the shoot was really cool. He's a bouncer/professional hypnotist/paintball enthusiast. Needless to say, he was a lot of fun to talk with.
And I thought I had diverse interests.
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, October 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, October 15 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, October 18 - Fort McMurray
Tuesday, October 21 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 17
Friday, October 31
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Friday, October 10, 2008
Dan's Underground Comedy Tour Comes Above-Ground
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, October 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, October 15 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, October 21 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 17
Friday, October 31
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Longtime readers might remember Dan's Underground Comedy Tour where I told jokes in the LRT station.
Just for fun, I decided to revisit the experiment, telling jokes in public.
It was not like riding a bike. It was tough to do again. I may have to make it a semi-regular part of my practice (yes, comedians DO practice--at least, I do) because I find I get so much out of it.
I did notice people were more inclined to stop and watch this time. Maybe it was the location; maybe it was the fact some of them were lower traffic areas and people are more likely to stop when there isn't a big crowd (If you took social psychology in university, you'll know why).
But I also think some of it is me. My stage presence has improved that people are more inclined to stop and pay attention. Heck, that's what stage presence is--being compelling enought that people want to watch you without changing the channel.
I'm not saying I have the greatest stage presence in the world.
But I'm making progress.
To me that's the thing that counts the most.
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
The Wisdom of Jim Cornette
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, October 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, October 15 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, October 21 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 17
Friday, October 31
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
(I was originally going to post this exclusively on the hotchicksandstrangers blog, but it occurred to me that this applies to more than just romantic partners. It also applies to stand-up comedy, sales, personal lives, or pretty much any aspect of dealing with other human beings)
This is going to sound weird, but a lot of what I learned about romance (and stand-up comedy for that matter) came from learning about the psychology of pro-wrestling. While a lot of what I picked up came from picking the brains of experienced wrestlers, I got some stuff off some DVDs. My favorites are Behind Closed Doors with Jake Roberts and Secrets of the Ring with Jim Cornette.
Both DVDs are awesome, but today I want to paraphrase something Cornette said. He was talking about wrestling fans, but I think it applies equally well to potential romantic partners (or--as stated above--pretty much anything else--db).
Picture your pool of potential partners as one of those circular targets used for archery or darts. Each ring represents a group of people
· The smallest, inner-most ring is the people who are going to like you no matter what you do. For whatever reason, they will dig you no matter what.
· The second ring, is a slightly larger group. They’re the people who are going to like you when you’re at your best. They’ll show up as long as you meet their standards, but if you mess up, they’re gone.
· An even larger group is in the third ring. They are people who will like you if you’re “somebody.” They‘ll like your rich or famous or because other people like you.
· The fourth and final group, is everyone else in the world. They either don’t like you, don’t give a shit about you one way or the other, or have no idea who you are and never will.
Here’s what struck me about Cornette‘s Circle.
1 - You have no control over which circle someone falls into. Some people will like you no matter what. Some people will like you if you’re good. Some people will like you if you’re lucky enough to hit the big time. And some people are going to dislike you no matter what, and there’s no way you can change their mind.
But it’s not in your power to ‘assign’ people into a circle. All you can do is make the choices that feel right to you, shoot for your potential and people will either come along or they won’t.
2 - You can’t tell by looking which people fall into which category. A lot of people I know just assume people won’t like them and don’t even make the effort to get to know them (And on a personal level, this used to be one of my biggest problems…and it still is sometimes).
Once I started looking at things in this way, it took a lot of stress off me. It also gave me the freedom to stop trying to impress people and instead focusing on expressing myself and trusting that the people who are into my romantic type (or comedy audience, or whatever) would find me.
Monday, October 06, 2008
Mental Health Awareness Week
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, October 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, October 14 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, October 21 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 17
Friday, October 31
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
It's Mental Health Awareness Week.
Saw a cool show at the University this afternoon. David Granirer from Stand Up For Mental Health was in town to do a show. In addition to doing comedy and working as a counsellor, he also teaches stand-up to people with mental illnesses in Vancouver.
He showed clips of his students and they were quite technically sound as comedians.
Needless to say I found this fascinating. After all, I like teaching, I REALLY like comedy, and I have some interest in the mental health field from my experience volunteering on the Distress Line (Here's the link if you're interested in Distress Line volunteering in Edmonton).
Apparently Dave's students also are in demand to do shows all over the place, which is cool, although the thought that went through my head was, "No wonder it's so hard to find stage time in Vancouver."
For Fans of Zombies and Choose Your Own Adventures
A friend sent me this link. It's fun.
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, October 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, October 14 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, October 21 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 17
Friday, October 31
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, October 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, October 14 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, October 21 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 17
Friday, October 31
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Thursday, October 02, 2008
New Living Column is Up
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, October 14 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, October 21 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
The latest living column is up here. If it weren't for my inability to upload video auditions, I might be a reality show contestant right now.
In other news, my supervisor brought her one-year old into the office. He loves balls (Obvious joke here--"What guy doesn't?") whether it's stability balls or those round, paper Chinese decorations. "Ball" was even one of his first words.
If you're wondering why I'm bringing this up, it's because of this old column of mine re: putting the baby on the ball.
Clearly one of us was right and one of us was wrong. Although to be fair, I wouldn't have thought of it had she not told me not to do it (there's a lot of negatives in that last sentence. Sorry if it's confusing).
Yes, I AM gloating.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Gonzo Photojournalism
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
I did the photo shoot for my next batch of articles today, appearing at the Journal offices carrying a hockey stick, a plastic skeleton, and a duffle bag filled with various odds and ends to the amusement of the staff.
I wonder if Hunter S. Thompson had days like that.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Hot Chicks And...Dan?
There's a website called Hot Chicks With Doucebags which is about...actually, now that I think about it, it's pretty self-explanatory.
It's pictures of guys (douchebags) with women (hot chicks)and accompanying text that is mostly tearing down the guy, talking about how hot the woman is, followed by the occasional bellyaching about "how come women like that end up with guys like him?" Sometimes he even fantasizes about riding in and rescuing these innocent women from the clutches of greasy douchebags everywhere.
It's funny stuff, but (deliberately or not) the guy seems to miss a couple points.
Point One - If there is one central tenet I've learned about romantic relationships, it's this: People find each other for a reason.
I'm not sure whether that's uplifting or chilling. But I do believe it's a fact (supplemented by the Dawn Dumont Corrollary: The two most damaged people in the bar will always find one another)
Part two will continue after these announcements from your sponsor...
Upcoming Comedy
Wednesday, September 24 - Cold Lake, Alberta somewhere--it's a last minute thing
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Welcome back.
Point Two - A woman in a picture with a guy is not necessarily WITH that guy in any meaningful sense of the word.
I know this for a fact because there are enough pictures of me with women on my camera and many others to start a 'Hot Chicks with Dan' website (with enough left over for a 'Passable Chicks With Dan' website, followed by a 'Great Personalitied Girls With Dan' website)
Why do these pictures exist? Because I go out dancing to clubs regularly to dance, and invariably women will want pictures of themselves with me.
I tell myself it's because they know I'm a comedy superstar (Cold Lake, tonight--here I come)or my status as Brilliant Writer/Voice of a Generation (and Monster Pro Wrestling, lest we forget).
But I think mostly because there's something fun about getting your picture taken with the eccentric, thirty-something club regular dancing by himself. It's the equivalent of getting your picture taken with Mickey Mouse at Disneyland.
But girls aren't F***ING Mickey Mouse.
By interesting contrast, of the women I've ACTUALLY hooked up with in the last two and a half years (more than six...less than ten, depending on your definition of what exactly counts as a "hook-up") I have photographic evidence of exactly TWO of them...one of whom is my rhymes-with-burlfriend (I know, I know. The "G" word to me is like "Lord Voldemort" to the citizens of the Harry Potter-verse. Merely the thought of it fills me with dread)
So in conclusion: Don't Pity the Hot Chicks...they know exactly what they're getting.
Don't Fear the Douchebag...fear leads to hate which leads to the Dark Side.
Do however check out the website. The pictures are pretty funny.
In the absence of a 'Hot Chicks with Comedians(*)' site, it will have to do.
(*) Unless this counts.
Upcoming Comedy
Wednesday, September 24 - Cold Lake, Alberta somewhere--it's a last minute thing
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
It's pictures of guys (douchebags) with women (hot chicks)and accompanying text that is mostly tearing down the guy, talking about how hot the woman is, followed by the occasional bellyaching about "how come women like that end up with guys like him?" Sometimes he even fantasizes about riding in and rescuing these innocent women from the clutches of greasy douchebags everywhere.
It's funny stuff, but (deliberately or not) the guy seems to miss a couple points.
Point One - If there is one central tenet I've learned about romantic relationships, it's this: People find each other for a reason.
I'm not sure whether that's uplifting or chilling. But I do believe it's a fact (supplemented by the Dawn Dumont Corrollary: The two most damaged people in the bar will always find one another)
Part two will continue after these announcements from your sponsor...
Upcoming Comedy
Wednesday, September 24 - Cold Lake, Alberta somewhere--it's a last minute thing
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Welcome back.
Point Two - A woman in a picture with a guy is not necessarily WITH that guy in any meaningful sense of the word.
I know this for a fact because there are enough pictures of me with women on my camera and many others to start a 'Hot Chicks with Dan' website (with enough left over for a 'Passable Chicks With Dan' website, followed by a 'Great Personalitied Girls With Dan' website)
Why do these pictures exist? Because I go out dancing to clubs regularly to dance, and invariably women will want pictures of themselves with me.
I tell myself it's because they know I'm a comedy superstar (Cold Lake, tonight--here I come)or my status as Brilliant Writer/Voice of a Generation (and Monster Pro Wrestling, lest we forget).
But I think mostly because there's something fun about getting your picture taken with the eccentric, thirty-something club regular dancing by himself. It's the equivalent of getting your picture taken with Mickey Mouse at Disneyland.
But girls aren't F***ING Mickey Mouse.
By interesting contrast, of the women I've ACTUALLY hooked up with in the last two and a half years (more than six...less than ten, depending on your definition of what exactly counts as a "hook-up") I have photographic evidence of exactly TWO of them...one of whom is my rhymes-with-burlfriend (I know, I know. The "G" word to me is like "Lord Voldemort" to the citizens of the Harry Potter-verse. Merely the thought of it fills me with dread)
So in conclusion: Don't Pity the Hot Chicks...they know exactly what they're getting.
Don't Fear the Douchebag...fear leads to hate which leads to the Dark Side.
Do however check out the website. The pictures are pretty funny.
In the absence of a 'Hot Chicks with Comedians(*)' site, it will have to do.
(*) Unless this counts.
Upcoming Comedy
Wednesday, September 24 - Cold Lake, Alberta somewhere--it's a last minute thing
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Monday, September 22, 2008
The Power of Red Bull Compels Me
I am hooked on Red Bull.
It's weird because I'm not into coffee, excessive drinking, drugs, or cigarettes. I don't even like prescription medication and will avoid if at all possible.
But Red Bull is magic.
The first time I tried it, I didn't think much of it. It didn't make me any less tired, but it made it impossible for me to sleep.
That sucked.
Now though, Red Bull has become "Dan-Be-Happy-Juice." It puts me in a better mood.
There's a Buddhist precept about not misusing intoxicants. I've decided to get around it by a rather generous definition of the term "misuse."
I'm a bad Buddhist anyway.
But I'm a pretty good MC. Come to The Comic Strip next Monday and see for yourself.
Also there are a couple new posts up at the hotchicksandstrangers blog on everything from the economics of dating to communication skills and (of course) some sex stuff. Check em out and see what you think.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
It's weird because I'm not into coffee, excessive drinking, drugs, or cigarettes. I don't even like prescription medication and will avoid if at all possible.
But Red Bull is magic.
The first time I tried it, I didn't think much of it. It didn't make me any less tired, but it made it impossible for me to sleep.
That sucked.
Now though, Red Bull has become "Dan-Be-Happy-Juice." It puts me in a better mood.
There's a Buddhist precept about not misusing intoxicants. I've decided to get around it by a rather generous definition of the term "misuse."
I'm a bad Buddhist anyway.
But I'm a pretty good MC. Come to The Comic Strip next Monday and see for yourself.
Also there are a couple new posts up at the hotchicksandstrangers blog on everything from the economics of dating to communication skills and (of course) some sex stuff. Check em out and see what you think.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Friday, September 19, 2008
New Living Article Up
Latest Living article (on my laser eye surgery) is up. You can find it here.
I was also interviewed by the wonderful and talented Misty Harris for an article on humour here.
Finally, I made a last minute appearance on Kamikaze Komedy with Lars and Matt Lisac two nights ago, so those of you with time machines might want to go have a listen.
Slowly but surely, I'm becoming more comfortable with media stuff, but it's an uphill battle.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
I was also interviewed by the wonderful and talented Misty Harris for an article on humour here.
Finally, I made a last minute appearance on Kamikaze Komedy with Lars and Matt Lisac two nights ago, so those of you with time machines might want to go have a listen.
Slowly but surely, I'm becoming more comfortable with media stuff, but it's an uphill battle.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Comedy Thoughts
I read a cool magazine article the other day (it was either Rolling Stone, Psychology Today, or possibly a branch of the GQ/Esquire family)about comedy. One of the comedy writers they interviewed noted that comedy by nature is offensive, but the only people who are offended are people who have been personally affected by the particular issue.
In other words, people weren't offended by stuff that happened to other people. As a hypothetical example, if the guy wrote a sketch about--I don't know, a guy getting hit in a face with a pie--every one in the crowd would laugh but the one guy who saw his mother hit in the face with a pie and it scarred him for life wrote in going "I didn't think that was funny at all."
I think that's true, both in my experience as a comic and a human being. The Palin/Clinton sketch that I found so funny actually offended a surprising amount of people (including several of John McCain's campaign staff, apparently). When someone makes a joke at my expense, I tend not to be bothered unless it's something that hits too close to the bone, in which case I catch myself thinking "That's not funny."
Which is sometimes true, but often not. Sometimes the joke isn't funny. Other times it's hilarious, but I just don't have the perspective to see it at the time.
I find it interesting that the humo(u)r we find offensive says more about us than it does about the comedian.
Speaking of funny, here are my upcoming events including a HILARIOUS comedy show on the 29th.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
In other words, people weren't offended by stuff that happened to other people. As a hypothetical example, if the guy wrote a sketch about--I don't know, a guy getting hit in a face with a pie--every one in the crowd would laugh but the one guy who saw his mother hit in the face with a pie and it scarred him for life wrote in going "I didn't think that was funny at all."
I think that's true, both in my experience as a comic and a human being. The Palin/Clinton sketch that I found so funny actually offended a surprising amount of people (including several of John McCain's campaign staff, apparently). When someone makes a joke at my expense, I tend not to be bothered unless it's something that hits too close to the bone, in which case I catch myself thinking "That's not funny."
Which is sometimes true, but often not. Sometimes the joke isn't funny. Other times it's hilarious, but I just don't have the perspective to see it at the time.
I find it interesting that the humo(u)r we find offensive says more about us than it does about the comedian.
Speaking of funny, here are my upcoming events including a HILARIOUS comedy show on the 29th.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Monday, September 15, 2008
My New Favorite Link
My new favorite link. Hilarious.
What I love about it is that even though it's hilarious, it makes some pretty strong points.
That's what the best comedy should be like. I wish I had written this sketch.
Oh well. Gives me motivation, I guess.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
What I love about it is that even though it's hilarious, it makes some pretty strong points.
That's what the best comedy should be like. I wish I had written this sketch.
Oh well. Gives me motivation, I guess.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Forget Jerks...Chicks Dig Shoes
The Suicide awareness march went well. I was moved by the amount of people and their strength in willing to publicly face down an issue with a lot of stigma attached to it. I was also really inspired by the people at the agency where I work for all the effort and time they put into organizing the march.
Of course, it wouldn't be my blog if I didn't comment on at least one funny thing.
One of the things the agency did was take donations of shoes and then set them out on display as a reminder of the people we've lost through suicide. The shoes were donations not the shoes of actual people who killed themselves (I feel I need to make that clear or the humour might be lost).
As we were setting up the shoes before the event, at least three or four times I heard one of my female co-workers say: "Oooh, these are cute."
Usually followed by, "I wonder what size they are."
I said they should leave their shoes and take the ones they wanted.
For the record, we all left the event wearing the same shoes we started in, but it was a near thing in a couple cases.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Of course, it wouldn't be my blog if I didn't comment on at least one funny thing.
One of the things the agency did was take donations of shoes and then set them out on display as a reminder of the people we've lost through suicide. The shoes were donations not the shoes of actual people who killed themselves (I feel I need to make that clear or the humour might be lost).
As we were setting up the shoes before the event, at least three or four times I heard one of my female co-workers say: "Oooh, these are cute."
Usually followed by, "I wonder what size they are."
I said they should leave their shoes and take the ones they wanted.
For the record, we all left the event wearing the same shoes we started in, but it was a near thing in a couple cases.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Lifting the Silence The Seventh Annual Suicide Awareness March
A good cause. I'll be doing the march this year.
From The Support Network website:
Each year, approximately one million people die by suicide around the world. This means nearly one life is lost to suicide every 40 seconds. Suicide is a leading cause of death world-wide.
The Support Network invites you to join us in raising awareness for suicide prevention and in honouring lives lost to suicide.
Event Details:
The Suicide Awareness March begins at The Royal Glenora Club and continues on to the legislative grounds where we will gather at The Eternal Flame for a brief ceremony. We will then return to the Royal Glenora Club for a reception and lunch.
Meeting Place:
The Royal Glenora Club
11160 River Valley Rd - parking is available
Date:
Friday, Septmember 12, 2008
Time:
11:30 am March Commences
12:00 pm Ceremony at The Eternal Flame
12:30 Reception and Lunch at The Royal Glenora Club.
From The Support Network website:
Each year, approximately one million people die by suicide around the world. This means nearly one life is lost to suicide every 40 seconds. Suicide is a leading cause of death world-wide.
The Support Network invites you to join us in raising awareness for suicide prevention and in honouring lives lost to suicide.
Event Details:
The Suicide Awareness March begins at The Royal Glenora Club and continues on to the legislative grounds where we will gather at The Eternal Flame for a brief ceremony. We will then return to the Royal Glenora Club for a reception and lunch.
Meeting Place:
The Royal Glenora Club
11160 River Valley Rd - parking is available
Date:
Friday, Septmember 12, 2008
Time:
11:30 am March Commences
12:00 pm Ceremony at The Eternal Flame
12:30 Reception and Lunch at The Royal Glenora Club.
Friday, September 05, 2008
New Living Article Up
New Living Article is up here
I'm working on adapting my comedy act now that I'm not wearing glasses anymore. Since I have joked about having bad eyesight AND jokes about the surgery, I'm working with the idea of bringing my glasses onstage and using them as a way of transitioning. I have a few different ideas and I'm excited at seeing how it works out because it's something different and new from what I've done before.
In other news, I am trying to write a dating story from a woman's point of view for the 'Dating for Shy Guys' book. Right now I'm stuck...on what to call the woman. Shannon? Monica? Gertrude?
Sheesh. If I'm having this much trouble with the name, I can't wait for actually writing the section of the book.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
I'm working on adapting my comedy act now that I'm not wearing glasses anymore. Since I have joked about having bad eyesight AND jokes about the surgery, I'm working with the idea of bringing my glasses onstage and using them as a way of transitioning. I have a few different ideas and I'm excited at seeing how it works out because it's something different and new from what I've done before.
In other news, I am trying to write a dating story from a woman's point of view for the 'Dating for Shy Guys' book. Right now I'm stuck...on what to call the woman. Shannon? Monica? Gertrude?
Sheesh. If I'm having this much trouble with the name, I can't wait for actually writing the section of the book.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Crowd Pleaser
People do interesting things. I've never been much for big crowds, but sometimes they're interesting to watch--especially when the words "Rider" and "Nation" are involved.
Today I went to the University bookstore before work. It wasn't open, but because it was the start of classes, there were mobs of students outside everyone of the three entrances waiting for the doors to open.
As soon as the doors opened, I couldn't help myself. I adopted my best zombie walk and staggered through the doors groaning: "Braaiins...braiins..."
The clerk that saw me laughed his ass off...well, chuckled anyway.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Today I went to the University bookstore before work. It wasn't open, but because it was the start of classes, there were mobs of students outside everyone of the three entrances waiting for the doors to open.
As soon as the doors opened, I couldn't help myself. I adopted my best zombie walk and staggered through the doors groaning: "Braaiins...braiins..."
The clerk that saw me laughed his ass off...well, chuckled anyway.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Honesty? Radical!
I just finished reading a book by Brad Blanton called 'Radical Honesty.' His thesis is you are supposed to tell the truth to everybody all of the time. No hiding anything. No white lies.
I was just wondering how following this would affect my life (not to mention this week's Zombie Project on Right Speech). I was also wondering how this commitment to the unvarnished truth would work in an intimate relationship.
That's when I looked at the 'About The Author' notes at the back.
The author has been married FOUR times.
The puzzle pieces click into place.
Living Article coming out on Friday. Hope people like it.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
I was just wondering how following this would affect my life (not to mention this week's Zombie Project on Right Speech). I was also wondering how this commitment to the unvarnished truth would work in an intimate relationship.
That's when I looked at the 'About The Author' notes at the back.
The author has been married FOUR times.
The puzzle pieces click into place.
Living Article coming out on Friday. Hope people like it.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Friday, August 29, 2008
I Can Lead A Nation With A Microphone
I am driving my co-workers crazy playing Handlebars by the Flo-Bots, over and over again.
It isn't just the tune...although I really like that quite a bit. A lot of the song's appeal is that I relate to its message.
Sort of.
The song is overtly political, and asides from watching the U.S. Presidential race, I'm not a political guy.
But to me, the song isn't so much about politics is it is about the desire for MORE.
When I hear the words I think of someone who isn't happy with what they have, who thinks they'll be satisfied once they get the next thing...and of course they never are.
Certainly, I see it a lot in the entertainment business. I feel that way too. I would love to have my words read or heard influence a lot of people's lives, to "lead a nation with a microphone."
When you start in comedy, all you want is a spot on a show. Then you start looking for paid spots. Then you aren't happy unless you're MCing or headlining or on TV or...
It never stops.
Of course, this isn't exclusive to comedy. Some of us seem to be born with that gene, that drive to achieve--in life, relationships, careers--that strand in our DNA that keeps crying out (as my favorite line in the song goes): "Look at me/Look at ME!"
It's okay to want those things. It's okay to be ambitious, to have dreams, and pursue them. But it's equally important to appreciate what you have.
Wanting stuff is okay. Needing stuff to be complete is another matter entirely.
In the meantime, I'm happy to be on the show.
Now if you'll excuse me, I have some co-workers to drive crazy.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
It isn't just the tune...although I really like that quite a bit. A lot of the song's appeal is that I relate to its message.
Sort of.
The song is overtly political, and asides from watching the U.S. Presidential race, I'm not a political guy.
But to me, the song isn't so much about politics is it is about the desire for MORE.
When I hear the words I think of someone who isn't happy with what they have, who thinks they'll be satisfied once they get the next thing...and of course they never are.
Certainly, I see it a lot in the entertainment business. I feel that way too. I would love to have my words read or heard influence a lot of people's lives, to "lead a nation with a microphone."
When you start in comedy, all you want is a spot on a show. Then you start looking for paid spots. Then you aren't happy unless you're MCing or headlining or on TV or...
It never stops.
Of course, this isn't exclusive to comedy. Some of us seem to be born with that gene, that drive to achieve--in life, relationships, careers--that strand in our DNA that keeps crying out (as my favorite line in the song goes): "Look at me/Look at ME!"
It's okay to want those things. It's okay to be ambitious, to have dreams, and pursue them. But it's equally important to appreciate what you have.
Wanting stuff is okay. Needing stuff to be complete is another matter entirely.
In the meantime, I'm happy to be on the show.
Now if you'll excuse me, I have some co-workers to drive crazy.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Zombie Rises
As promised, the first Zombie Diaries entry is up.
This looks fun.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
This looks fun.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, September 29 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Friday, August 22, 2008
New Living Article and Introducing Project: Zombie
Latest Living Article is up here.
It's on my new tattoo, which means I can finally stop hiding it in photo shoots. Continuity rules.
I'm also starting a new self-development project.
I'm going to become a zombie.
Okay, not really.
But what I am doing is reading the book the Zen of Zombie by Steve , and I'm going to apply some of it to my life for the next few weeks and see what happens.
Since it deals at least somewhat with my shyness, I figured it would be most appropriate to deal with it on the Hot Chicks & Strangers blog which actually deals with shyness as opposed to here which is supposed to mostly be self-promotion.
The first entry should be up tomorrow.
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
It's on my new tattoo, which means I can finally stop hiding it in photo shoots. Continuity rules.
I'm also starting a new self-development project.
I'm going to become a zombie.
Okay, not really.
But what I am doing is reading the book the Zen of Zombie by Steve , and I'm going to apply some of it to my life for the next few weeks and see what happens.
Since it deals at least somewhat with my shyness, I figured it would be most appropriate to deal with it on the Hot Chicks & Strangers blog which actually deals with shyness as opposed to here which is supposed to mostly be self-promotion.
The first entry should be up tomorrow.
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Dan Kisses A Heckler. Neither of them Turns Into a Handsome Prince
I guess this is my week for stories about women.
The story I REALLY want to tell happened this week involving the Seether concert and a lot of booze needs to be 'aged' so I can tell it without damaging any personal or professional reputations.
So you'll have to settle for the one below, plus another tale from my sordid past on my shyness blog. Neither of them make me look like a very good person, but I stopped worrying about how other people saw me a long time ago (and by a long time ago, I mean "April.")
Let's do the self-promotional stuff first:
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 22
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Moving on...
I don't understand hecklers. Generally, the type of person who would disrupt other people's entertainment because they need attention all of the time is not the kind of person I want to hang out with. In fact, I think they're kind of pathetic.
At a recent show, I had to deal with a woman in the front row. I didn't get a good glimpse of her face because a) she was wearing a low-cut top and b) because her behaviour during the show was so obnoxious that looking at her pissed me off.
Most of her comments were the worst kind of heckles because it wasn't so much "heckling" as it was "spitting out random sentence fragments that would make no sense in a regular conversation, much less a show."
This is the only exchange I remember because it was the closest she came to something resembling a coherent idea.
WOMAN: You're quiet and shy.
ME: I wish I could say the same about you.
I settled in to a rhythm of completely ignoring her, and the show ended up going quite well. I can tell how well a show went by the amount of people who come up afterwards to talk to me. This one was a gooder.
Anyway, I ended up going to the pub next door with a few other comics and a couple women who came to the show, one of whom was a cutie in a low cut top (You can probably guess where this is heading). One thing led to another--and by one thing I mean her pressing her leg to mine when we talked and by "another" I mean her pressing warmly against me and touching her lips to my ear when she murmured into it.
At this point I decided it was time to go for what we in the business refer to as "The Pull." Unfortunately, there were two obstacles.
a) her friend
b) We're in a freaking mall--a closed mall--and neither of us are driving anywhere.
I dealt with a) by just being honest. "I want to go for a walk with your friend. Will you be okay hanging here with these guys?"
Honesty is good. I highly recommend it. I actually got an email from her the next day thanking me for including her. As far as being a good person goes, it was one of my better moments.
Followed shortly by one of my not-so-good moments.
Me and low-cut shirt woman went for a walk in the mall. All the stores were closed, the security guards were out, and there was no place even remotely private.
So I took her to the whale.
A particular feature of this particular mall is a statue of a whale (duh) in the middle of the mall. There is a bench inside the whale's mouth.
And that is where I ended up kissing the softest lips I have ever tasted. They were truly remarkable. I have never kissed lips like it before or since.
On the way back to the pub, holding hands, she told me, "I loved you onstage. You were so quiet and shy."
And there--finally--the penny dropped.
HOLY S**T! I JUST KISSED A HECKLER! I'm HOLDING HANDS with her!
Worlds Collide.
One world is: she seems cool and she's a great kisser and I really like the way she looks at me. The other world is: She was super-obnoxious during the show, and those types never turn out to be good people.
So who was this woman? Which world did she belong to? A world of fun and awesome-kissing. Or Planet A**hole.
I found out a few days later.
But that's a story for another time.
The story I REALLY want to tell happened this week involving the Seether concert and a lot of booze needs to be 'aged' so I can tell it without damaging any personal or professional reputations.
So you'll have to settle for the one below, plus another tale from my sordid past on my shyness blog. Neither of them make me look like a very good person, but I stopped worrying about how other people saw me a long time ago (and by a long time ago, I mean "April.")
Let's do the self-promotional stuff first:
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 22
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Moving on...
I don't understand hecklers. Generally, the type of person who would disrupt other people's entertainment because they need attention all of the time is not the kind of person I want to hang out with. In fact, I think they're kind of pathetic.
At a recent show, I had to deal with a woman in the front row. I didn't get a good glimpse of her face because a) she was wearing a low-cut top and b) because her behaviour during the show was so obnoxious that looking at her pissed me off.
Most of her comments were the worst kind of heckles because it wasn't so much "heckling" as it was "spitting out random sentence fragments that would make no sense in a regular conversation, much less a show."
This is the only exchange I remember because it was the closest she came to something resembling a coherent idea.
WOMAN: You're quiet and shy.
ME: I wish I could say the same about you.
I settled in to a rhythm of completely ignoring her, and the show ended up going quite well. I can tell how well a show went by the amount of people who come up afterwards to talk to me. This one was a gooder.
Anyway, I ended up going to the pub next door with a few other comics and a couple women who came to the show, one of whom was a cutie in a low cut top (You can probably guess where this is heading). One thing led to another--and by one thing I mean her pressing her leg to mine when we talked and by "another" I mean her pressing warmly against me and touching her lips to my ear when she murmured into it.
At this point I decided it was time to go for what we in the business refer to as "The Pull." Unfortunately, there were two obstacles.
a) her friend
b) We're in a freaking mall--a closed mall--and neither of us are driving anywhere.
I dealt with a) by just being honest. "I want to go for a walk with your friend. Will you be okay hanging here with these guys?"
Honesty is good. I highly recommend it. I actually got an email from her the next day thanking me for including her. As far as being a good person goes, it was one of my better moments.
Followed shortly by one of my not-so-good moments.
Me and low-cut shirt woman went for a walk in the mall. All the stores were closed, the security guards were out, and there was no place even remotely private.
So I took her to the whale.
A particular feature of this particular mall is a statue of a whale (duh) in the middle of the mall. There is a bench inside the whale's mouth.
And that is where I ended up kissing the softest lips I have ever tasted. They were truly remarkable. I have never kissed lips like it before or since.
On the way back to the pub, holding hands, she told me, "I loved you onstage. You were so quiet and shy."
And there--finally--the penny dropped.
HOLY S**T! I JUST KISSED A HECKLER! I'm HOLDING HANDS with her!
Worlds Collide.
One world is: she seems cool and she's a great kisser and I really like the way she looks at me. The other world is: She was super-obnoxious during the show, and those types never turn out to be good people.
So who was this woman? Which world did she belong to? A world of fun and awesome-kissing. Or Planet A**hole.
I found out a few days later.
But that's a story for another time.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Word of Mouth Is Killing Them
Lars Callieou, Kelly Soloduka, Andrew Iwanyk, and Sean Lecomber have put together a Fringe show. All four of them are guys I really enjoy watching, so I encourage everyone to go check them out.
Here's the info.
Word of Mouth is Killing Us
Running Time: 1 hour & 30 minutes
Despite resounding indifference the comedians of Stand Up Stand Outs (2007) are back in 2008. Word of Mouth is Killing Us will prove once again that stand up comedy is an unwelcome addition to any Fringe Festival. Expecting audience members who "couldn't get tickets to anything else", Lars, Kelly, Sean & Andrew look forward to hearing 'the sound of no hands clapping'. Don't tell your friends! Word of Mouth is Killing Us.
Online tickets:
http://tickets.fringetheatre.ca/dateselect.aspx?item=357&venue=8
Show times:
Friday August 15 - 6:30 pm
Sunday August 17 - 4:30 pm
Tuesday August 19 - 8:45 pm
Wednesday August 20 - 6:45 pm
Thursday August 21 - 11:00 pm
Saturday August 23 - 8:45 pm
Acacia Masonic Hall
Located at 10433-83 Ave
http://maps.google.com/maps?geocode=&q=10433-83+Ave.(Acacia+Hall)+++
Here's the info.
Word of Mouth is Killing Us
Running Time: 1 hour & 30 minutes
Despite resounding indifference the comedians of Stand Up Stand Outs (2007) are back in 2008. Word of Mouth is Killing Us will prove once again that stand up comedy is an unwelcome addition to any Fringe Festival. Expecting audience members who "couldn't get tickets to anything else", Lars, Kelly, Sean & Andrew look forward to hearing 'the sound of no hands clapping'. Don't tell your friends! Word of Mouth is Killing Us.
Online tickets:
http://tickets.fringetheatre.ca/dateselect.aspx?item=357&venue=8
Show times:
Friday August 15 - 6:30 pm
Sunday August 17 - 4:30 pm
Tuesday August 19 - 8:45 pm
Wednesday August 20 - 6:45 pm
Thursday August 21 - 11:00 pm
Saturday August 23 - 8:45 pm
Acacia Masonic Hall
Located at 10433-83 Ave
http://maps.google.com/maps?geocode=&q=10433-83+Ave.(Acacia+Hall)+++
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Life and Everything.
I won the board game, Game of Life last week.
Which meant I finally got to tell someone, "You suck at life."
Which meant I finally got to tell someone, "You suck at life."
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
I Don't Get It
This is the it, I'm talking about.
Okay, I understand the boots with the fur. But how do you wear both Apple Bottom Jeans and baggy sweatpants at the same time?
For that matter what kind of club would let you in wearing baggy sweatpants?
Then again, I'm pretty ignorant with this stuff. I didn't even know what 'shawty' meant, let alone the 'superman' in "superman that ho."
Urban Dictionary, you've changed my life.
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 22
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Okay, I understand the boots with the fur. But how do you wear both Apple Bottom Jeans and baggy sweatpants at the same time?
For that matter what kind of club would let you in wearing baggy sweatpants?
Then again, I'm pretty ignorant with this stuff. I didn't even know what 'shawty' meant, let alone the 'superman' in "superman that ho."
Urban Dictionary, you've changed my life.
Upcoming Living Columns in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 22
Friday, September 5
Friday, September 19
Friday, October 3
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Bad Joke Pandemic
Driving down Jasper last night, we passed a couple of women lugging suitcases behind them.
Captain Hammer (The artist formerly known as PrettyBoy) took one look at them and said: "Wow, those chicks have some serious baggage!"
I laughed myself sick.
Run for your lives, everyone. My terrible jokes have become contagious.
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Captain Hammer (The artist formerly known as PrettyBoy) took one look at them and said: "Wow, those chicks have some serious baggage!"
I laughed myself sick.
Run for your lives, everyone. My terrible jokes have become contagious.
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Bar News
DAN: What do you do?
GUY AT THE BAR: I'm an enterpreneur.
DAN: (joking) Like a drug dealer?
GUY: (not joking) Sometimes. I do other stuff too.
Oops.
The guy went on to tell me about the coming apocalypse and how big brother is watching us and we will all have chips implanted in us to track our movements. Also, the New Slavery is coming.
Some people lead rich lives.
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
GUY AT THE BAR: I'm an enterpreneur.
DAN: (joking) Like a drug dealer?
GUY: (not joking) Sometimes. I do other stuff too.
Oops.
The guy went on to tell me about the coming apocalypse and how big brother is watching us and we will all have chips implanted in us to track our movements. Also, the New Slavery is coming.
Some people lead rich lives.
Current Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Important Announcement for Regular Readers
Sisyphus finally got his rock up the hill. The story is something that would only happen to him.
PS - Latest Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
PS - Latest Living article is up here.
Dan's musings on shyness and relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Being Appreciative
This was going to be a story about how I kissed a senior citizen at the bar last week.
But when I sat down to write, I got distracted by other thoughts.
Last night was one of my best nights on stage in a long while.
I wasn't any funnier than usual. The crowd was good, but not exceptional.
What made the difference was that I started to feel the way I want to feel onstage. Not worrying about the next joke...not agonizing over the last joke...but just being in the moment.
The interesting thing is, a lot of this new stuff didn't come from doing comedy. It came from being involved in wrestling, and my new interest in Buddhism, and my attempts to overcome my shyness.
A lot of comedians tell you that the way to become a better comedian is to eat, breathe, and live comedy 24 hours a day.
I think there's some truth to that, especially at the beginning and especially if you're obsessed with maximizing your success.
But I also think that it's possible to stagnate if that's all you do. Comedy comes from life experience and making your entire existence about comedy narrows that experience. I remember a veteran comic telling me that one of the reason he had a lot of trouble finding material audiences could relate to because his lifestyle was so different from that of the audience.
There's a big world out there and my life is richer for it. Learning to appreciate other things helped me appreciate the things I already have more.
Upcoming Comedy
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Monday, August 4 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan's musings on relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
But when I sat down to write, I got distracted by other thoughts.
Last night was one of my best nights on stage in a long while.
I wasn't any funnier than usual. The crowd was good, but not exceptional.
What made the difference was that I started to feel the way I want to feel onstage. Not worrying about the next joke...not agonizing over the last joke...but just being in the moment.
The interesting thing is, a lot of this new stuff didn't come from doing comedy. It came from being involved in wrestling, and my new interest in Buddhism, and my attempts to overcome my shyness.
A lot of comedians tell you that the way to become a better comedian is to eat, breathe, and live comedy 24 hours a day.
I think there's some truth to that, especially at the beginning and especially if you're obsessed with maximizing your success.
But I also think that it's possible to stagnate if that's all you do. Comedy comes from life experience and making your entire existence about comedy narrows that experience. I remember a veteran comic telling me that one of the reason he had a lot of trouble finding material audiences could relate to because his lifestyle was so different from that of the audience.
There's a big world out there and my life is richer for it. Learning to appreciate other things helped me appreciate the things I already have more.
Upcoming Comedy
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Monday, August 4 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan's musings on relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Schedule Updates
I need a good story or something.
I got laser eye surgery done, but it was done fairly quickly. In fact, the whole thing was a blur. Get it? A blur?
Hear these jokes and more this week at the Comic Strip.
Upcoming Comedy
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Monday, August 4 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan's musings on relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
I got laser eye surgery done, but it was done fairly quickly. In fact, the whole thing was a blur. Get it? A blur?
Hear these jokes and more this week at the Comic Strip.
Upcoming Comedy
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Monday, August 4 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan's musings on relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Friday, July 18, 2008
The Latest on ed (and a new Living Article)
New Living article is up here. It's about dealing with the loss of my brother now that a couple years have passed.
I feel I should write more about it, but most of what I want to say is in the article. The last two years have been a strange journey that's for sure, and while it's been tough, there have also been a lot of strengths I've discovered in myself and the people around me.
In other news,ed Magazine is going on hiatus, which also mean a hiatus for headLINES and Pair of Singles. I'm going to miss it. I've contributed a headLINES column every week but one since January of 2005.
I'm hoping Dawn and I can find a home for 'A Pair of Singles' as it's one of my favorite columns to write. If you're a regular reader of POS,feel free to drop an email or phone call to the Journal or write a letter to the editor. Or if you have an idea for another publication that might be interested in our work, feel free to give us a shout (you can contact me through the blog).
In other news, Dictionary.com's word of the day is Tatterdemalion. I love that word.
Also, a friend of mine send me the link to this blog called Dr. Horrible. It's written by Joss Whedon starring Nathan Fillion and Neil Patrick Harris. It's a musical about a supervillain. Hilarious stuff.
Have a great weekend everyone.
Upcoming Comedy
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here
Dan's musings on relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
I feel I should write more about it, but most of what I want to say is in the article. The last two years have been a strange journey that's for sure, and while it's been tough, there have also been a lot of strengths I've discovered in myself and the people around me.
In other news,ed Magazine is going on hiatus, which also mean a hiatus for headLINES and Pair of Singles. I'm going to miss it. I've contributed a headLINES column every week but one since January of 2005.
I'm hoping Dawn and I can find a home for 'A Pair of Singles' as it's one of my favorite columns to write. If you're a regular reader of POS,feel free to drop an email or phone call to the Journal or write a letter to the editor. Or if you have an idea for another publication that might be interested in our work, feel free to give us a shout (you can contact me through the blog).
In other news, Dictionary.com's word of the day is Tatterdemalion. I love that word.
Also, a friend of mine send me the link to this blog called Dr. Horrible. It's written by Joss Whedon starring Nathan Fillion and Neil Patrick Harris. It's a musical about a supervillain. Hilarious stuff.
Have a great weekend everyone.
Upcoming Comedy
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here
Dan's musings on relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Latest Pair of Singles up and Life According to Oz
Latest Pair of Singles is up. You can find it here. I also have a Living column out tomorrow so check the Journal.
I am a big fan of the character Oz from Buffy the Vampire Slayer as people who have read this article already know. The character is laid-back, comfortable with himself, and genuine, which I think are great qualities to have.
Here's the gospel according to Oz. Something about these passages speaks to my soul.
OZ ON BEING COOL:
Xander: You yourself are considered cool. Why is that?
Oz: Am I?
Xander: Is it about the talking? The way you tend to express yourself in short, noncommittal phrases?
Oz: Could be.
Xander: I know! You're in a band! That's like a business-class ticket to cool with complementary mojo after takeoff! I gotta learn an instrument. Is it hard to play guitar?
Oz: Not the way I play it.
Xander: Okay, but on the other hand: eighth grade. I'm taking the flugelhorn and gettin' *zero* trim. So the whole instrument thing could be a mislead. But you need a thing, one thing nobody else has. What do I have?
Oz: An exciting new obsession. Which I feel makes you very special.
================================================
OZ ON DATING:
OZ: I'm gonna ask you to go out with me tomorrow night. And I'm nervous about it, actually... It's interesting.
WILLOW: Oh. Well, if it helps at all, I'm gonna say yes.
OZ: Yeah, it helps. It creates a comfort zone. Do you wanna go out with me tomorrow night?
WILLOW: Oh! I can't!
OZ: I like that you're unpredictable.
==================================================================
AND FINALLY...
OZ: If you don't need me, I'm gonna follow the redhead.
Words to live by.
Upcoming Comedy
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here
Dan's musings on relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
I am a big fan of the character Oz from Buffy the Vampire Slayer as people who have read this article already know. The character is laid-back, comfortable with himself, and genuine, which I think are great qualities to have.
Here's the gospel according to Oz. Something about these passages speaks to my soul.
OZ ON BEING COOL:
Xander: You yourself are considered cool. Why is that?
Oz: Am I?
Xander: Is it about the talking? The way you tend to express yourself in short, noncommittal phrases?
Oz: Could be.
Xander: I know! You're in a band! That's like a business-class ticket to cool with complementary mojo after takeoff! I gotta learn an instrument. Is it hard to play guitar?
Oz: Not the way I play it.
Xander: Okay, but on the other hand: eighth grade. I'm taking the flugelhorn and gettin' *zero* trim. So the whole instrument thing could be a mislead. But you need a thing, one thing nobody else has. What do I have?
Oz: An exciting new obsession. Which I feel makes you very special.
================================================
OZ ON DATING:
OZ: I'm gonna ask you to go out with me tomorrow night. And I'm nervous about it, actually... It's interesting.
WILLOW: Oh. Well, if it helps at all, I'm gonna say yes.
OZ: Yeah, it helps. It creates a comfort zone. Do you wanna go out with me tomorrow night?
WILLOW: Oh! I can't!
OZ: I like that you're unpredictable.
==================================================================
AND FINALLY...
OZ: If you don't need me, I'm gonna follow the redhead.
Words to live by.
Upcoming Comedy
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here
Dan's musings on relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Monday, July 14, 2008
New headLINES
Latest headLINES up here
Upcoming Comedy
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here
Dan's musings on relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Upcoming Comedy
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here
Dan's musings on relationships can be found at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com
Thursday, July 10, 2008
New Pair of Singles
The latest Pair of Singles is up. The question we tacked is how long should you wait before you have sex?
Upcoming Comedy
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Upcoming Comedy
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Dan Brodribb of the Windsor Star?
Part of my review of JM Kearns' excellent book "Why Mr. Right Can't Find You" got quoted on his website
Interestingly, I am referred to as a writer for the Windsor Star.
Nope.
In fact, I'd never heard of it.
I suspect that particular piece, which was a series of capsule reviews of a bunch of dating books on the market got picked up by other papers.
I guess I can add the Windsor Star to newspapers I've written for, even though I didn't know they existed.
It's still cool to see your name in print though. Clearly I'm a reviewer to be reckoned with.
Neat-O.
Speaking of dating, I'm starting a new blog just on dating and relationships at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com. I haven't really decided if its something I really want to promote (hence burying news of it's creation at the end of a random blog about Windsor) For now, it's going to be random ramblings and a way to get my thoughts in order as I put together a book version of 'Dating for Shy Guys.' If you're interested in such things, feel free to check it out and leave your comments.
Interestingly, I am referred to as a writer for the Windsor Star.
Nope.
In fact, I'd never heard of it.
I suspect that particular piece, which was a series of capsule reviews of a bunch of dating books on the market got picked up by other papers.
I guess I can add the Windsor Star to newspapers I've written for, even though I didn't know they existed.
It's still cool to see your name in print though. Clearly I'm a reviewer to be reckoned with.
Neat-O.
Speaking of dating, I'm starting a new blog just on dating and relationships at hotchicksandstrangers.blogspot.com. I haven't really decided if its something I really want to promote (hence burying news of it's creation at the end of a random blog about Windsor) For now, it's going to be random ramblings and a way to get my thoughts in order as I put together a book version of 'Dating for Shy Guys.' If you're interested in such things, feel free to check it out and leave your comments.
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Comedy Contest Tonight
--I'll be performing tonight in The Comic Strip's Last Comic Standing contest. Personally, I'm not a fan of comedy contests, but this one has a really solid line-up, so I encourage everyone to come down tonight and check it out.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, July 8 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, July 8 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Monday, July 07, 2008
new headLINES is up
Check it out here.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, July 8 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, July 8 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Saturday, July 05, 2008
New Pair of Singles, New Living Article
My latest Living article, on Salsa dancing, is up here.
Latest Pair of Singles is here.
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, July 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, July 8 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Latest Pair of Singles is here.
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, July 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, July 8 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Canada Day
I enjoyed the Canada fireworks last night.
I don't think of myself as a 'crowd' person, but last night I had a good time. Kids were playing in the fountain; families were sitting together; teenagers were running around with their friends.
I don't know if the travelling I've done in the last year and a half or so has changed me, but I felt very comfortable and content.
Life, as always, remains good.
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, July 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
I don't think of myself as a 'crowd' person, but last night I had a good time. Kids were playing in the fountain; families were sitting together; teenagers were running around with their friends.
I don't know if the travelling I've done in the last year and a half or so has changed me, but I felt very comfortable and content.
Life, as always, remains good.
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, July 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Newest headLINES is up here.
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, July 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, July 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Wednesday, July 30 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 31 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Friday, August 1 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, August 2 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, August 3 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Dan vs. the Express Bus, New Pair of Singles
New Pair of Singles is up here.
Why does a bus say "Express" if it is not an express bus? Three times I have inadvertently gotten on an "express" bus from downtown to WEM only to take a meandering crawl down Stony Plain road, loop through the various crescents of West Edmonton, a slow boat to China to pick up some Tibetan refugees, and finally to the mall.
The worst part is I keep forgetting the bus number so I can never remember which of the Express buses is an actual express and which is the Transit System's little practical joke on people who believe everything they read.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Why does a bus say "Express" if it is not an express bus? Three times I have inadvertently gotten on an "express" bus from downtown to WEM only to take a meandering crawl down Stony Plain road, loop through the various crescents of West Edmonton, a slow boat to China to pick up some Tibetan refugees, and finally to the mall.
The worst part is I keep forgetting the bus number so I can never remember which of the Express buses is an actual express and which is the Transit System's little practical joke on people who believe everything they read.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Monday, June 23, 2008
New headLINES and Comedy Observation
I never get bored with comedy. Probably the two things I love most are 1)Working out new jokes and 2) Discovering interesting things about human nature and crowd psychology. Crowds have their own personalities--each one is different and fascinating.
Last night was a great example of 2). ANDREW IWANYK was onstage doing what Andrew does. Partway through his set, he got bogged down and he handled the situation in spectacular fashion. It was funny, honest, and commited, and it's a place I hope to consistenly reach in my own performances.
The audience didn't know this, of course. The audience didn't know HOW to react to what they were seeing. But I was so delighted, I started clapping.
Here's the interesting thing.
As soon as I started clapping, everyone else joined in. I don't even think they realized why they were doing it. Even Andrew remarked: "I'm not sure what you're clapping for, but I'll take it."
I don't have any great comedy lesson from that moment. I just found it neat.
Anyway, here are this week's headLINES.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Last night was a great example of 2). ANDREW IWANYK was onstage doing what Andrew does. Partway through his set, he got bogged down and he handled the situation in spectacular fashion. It was funny, honest, and commited, and it's a place I hope to consistenly reach in my own performances.
The audience didn't know this, of course. The audience didn't know HOW to react to what they were seeing. But I was so delighted, I started clapping.
Here's the interesting thing.
As soon as I started clapping, everyone else joined in. I don't even think they realized why they were doing it. Even Andrew remarked: "I'm not sure what you're clapping for, but I'll take it."
I don't have any great comedy lesson from that moment. I just found it neat.
Anyway, here are this week's headLINES.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, July 7 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Rambling Thoughts (written Saturday)
The Slayer left today for Toronto. She will be gone for six months.
Watching the taxi pull out of the parking lot, I was 38% sadder than I expected to be. We had a good four months together.
I'm always amazed at the capacity to be surprised by my own emotions.
I like it.
It keeps things from getting predictable.
I don't know what the future holds, but in some ways, it makes me appreciate what we had that much more. As recently as a couple years ago, I never thought I would be in the position to have happy relationships.
Life is good.
Watching the taxi pull out of the parking lot, I was 38% sadder than I expected to be. We had a good four months together.
I'm always amazed at the capacity to be surprised by my own emotions.
I like it.
It keeps things from getting predictable.
I don't know what the future holds, but in some ways, it makes me appreciate what we had that much more. As recently as a couple years ago, I never thought I would be in the position to have happy relationships.
Life is good.
Dawn and Dan Go To A Strip Club and Pass Judgement on Naked Women
Those of you who read Pair of Singles regularly know how funny my co-writer Dawn Dumont is (and if you don't, head on over to read our latest article here.
But some of our funniest moments, no one will no about, because they don't get written down.
Last night, we took the Slayer to a strip club to celebrate her last night in town (it was her idea. My opinion of most strip clubs is already well documented. Here and here are a couple of examples.
That's where we learned that Dawn and I have very different tastes in our exotic dancers. Which would be fine except that it turned into a running argument that lasted into the wee hours of the morning as we deconstructed the strippers the way we look at comedy sets.
These lines probably won't be funny to everyone because they use some comedy insider terms. Also, you kind of had to be there--we were getting pretty into our arguments.
Here are some samples--not word for word, but you'll get the idea.
DAN: My stripper is killing.
DAWN: That's because my stripper warmed up the crowd. Besides, I bet she's been doing the same act for years. I saw that same pole move on TV five years ago.
DAN: She's athletic. She's got great stage presence.
DAWN: So you're saying she's the Dane Cook of strippers. My stripper is in it from the art. She doesn't have to resort to cheap pole tricks.
DAN: Your stripper is a hack. I was surprised she didn't ask if by applause there are any married people in the crowd tonight.
DAWN: Yeah, but how good would your stripper be doing if she wasn't selling posters. She's a prop act.
DAN: At least she stuck to her time. Yours was out there forever. The other strippers were in the back muttering to each other.
The capper though was when Dawn actuall overheard a stripper say.
STRIPPER: I'm going to try some new stuff tonight.
DAWN (through tears of laughter): Yeah, they seem like a good crowd.
DAN: Try one new bit and if the crowd's on board, keep going.
DAWN: She's brave, trying new stuff on a weekend. I would have worked it out on a Monday show first.
DAN: Yeah, but there's a pretty strong headliner following her.
You get the idea.
I'm hosting at The Comic Strip on Monday. See everybody there.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, June 23 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
But some of our funniest moments, no one will no about, because they don't get written down.
Last night, we took the Slayer to a strip club to celebrate her last night in town (it was her idea. My opinion of most strip clubs is already well documented. Here and here are a couple of examples.
That's where we learned that Dawn and I have very different tastes in our exotic dancers. Which would be fine except that it turned into a running argument that lasted into the wee hours of the morning as we deconstructed the strippers the way we look at comedy sets.
These lines probably won't be funny to everyone because they use some comedy insider terms. Also, you kind of had to be there--we were getting pretty into our arguments.
Here are some samples--not word for word, but you'll get the idea.
DAN: My stripper is killing.
DAWN: That's because my stripper warmed up the crowd. Besides, I bet she's been doing the same act for years. I saw that same pole move on TV five years ago.
DAN: She's athletic. She's got great stage presence.
DAWN: So you're saying she's the Dane Cook of strippers. My stripper is in it from the art. She doesn't have to resort to cheap pole tricks.
DAN: Your stripper is a hack. I was surprised she didn't ask if by applause there are any married people in the crowd tonight.
DAWN: Yeah, but how good would your stripper be doing if she wasn't selling posters. She's a prop act.
DAN: At least she stuck to her time. Yours was out there forever. The other strippers were in the back muttering to each other.
The capper though was when Dawn actuall overheard a stripper say.
STRIPPER: I'm going to try some new stuff tonight.
DAWN (through tears of laughter): Yeah, they seem like a good crowd.
DAN: Try one new bit and if the crowd's on board, keep going.
DAWN: She's brave, trying new stuff on a weekend. I would have worked it out on a Monday show first.
DAN: Yeah, but there's a pretty strong headliner following her.
You get the idea.
I'm hosting at The Comic Strip on Monday. See everybody there.
Upcoming Comedy
Monday, June 23 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, July 24 - Rouge Lounge, Edmonton
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (current Living article is here
Friday, July 4 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, July 18 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Friday, August 1 - Living Section, Edmonton Journal
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Monday in the Edmonton Journal's ed online. Current headLINES is here.
A Pair of Singles (co-written with Dawn Dumont) appears in the Edmonton Journal's ed online every Thursday. Current article is here.
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