Upcoming Comedy
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Saturday, April 8 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Sunday, April 9 - The Comic Strip
Wednesday, April 12 - The Comic Strip
Friday, April 21 - Student Distress Centre Fundraiser
Saturday, April 26 - Legion, Red Deer
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (subjects to be announced)
March 31
April 14 - (Subjects to be announced)
April 28
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-Well, a dream came true last night, as I got to guest spot on a show featuring MITCH FATEL, who is a really big influence on me. Watching Mitch shows you that there is room for people with their own voice. Thanks go to LARS CALLIEOU for lobbying to get me on stage and to RICK BRONSON for allowing it. I was told there wouldn't be guest spots so I showed up completely underdressed (I mean I had clothes on, but not stage clothes). I'm sure I've written in a previous entry how important it is to always have your 'working boots' with you. I should take my own advice.
-Did the photo shoot for next months Journal articles. I'm especially nervous about the one appearing in the article at the end of April. I think we got a pretty good view of the inside of my nostrils. But the photo guy liked the lighting so guess which one's the keeper. Sigh.
-Monday amateur night at The Comic Strip was great, not just for the comedy, but because so many guys came down that I don't get a chance to see anymore. I've always been a bit of a loner, but I do appreciate that there are some great guys (and gal--Kathleen McGee) trying to make it locally. The highlight of the night for me was MAX MAULT (I believe I may have told the infamous 'Max Mault Rye & Coke Incident' in an earlier entry'), who toned down his usual histrionics to do some jokes. It's great to see comics who are unafraid to grow and evolve. Max also gave me a little pep talk after the show, about how he'd watched me develop over the time I've been doing comedy. His words meant a lot, because it's easy to lose sight of how far you've come, when all you're focused on is where you are or where you want to be.
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Friday, March 24, 2006
Some days you get the bear...
Upcoming Comedy
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Saturday, April 8 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Sunday, April 9 - The Comic Strip
Wednesday, April 12 - The Comic Strip
Friday, April 21 - Student Distress Centre Fundraiser
Saturday, April 26 - Legion, Red Deer
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (subjects to be announced)
March 31
April 14 - (Subjects to be announced)
April 28
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
The trouble with being a comedian is that if you have a bad day at the office, it's in front of a whole bunch of strangers. Last night I had a bad day at the office. Comedy is unique in that there is no way to 'practice' at home; the only way to get better is by performing in front of a live audience. I'm not bothered for myself when I do poorly--I recognize the only way to get better is by experience--but I always feel bad for crowds who paid money to watch my growing pains. If there's a bright spot, it's that I was a last-minute replacement, so another comic's name was on the marquee, and that's the name the crowd will remember. Sorry, Dana.
-MITCH FATEL is at The Comic Strip all weekend. Check him out if you get a chance. Like DEREK EDWARDS and MIKE WILMOT, he doesn't come to town often, and he's really worth seeing.
-MPW is hosting a free show at their training site (9774-54 Ave, Edmonton) Sunday at 2pm. Doors open at 1. A lot of the MPW mainstays will be there, and ladies, it may interest you to know that one of them will be BRADY ROBERTS, who was the March 14 Hunk of Day at www.ProWrestlingDaily.com, putting him in the same illustrious company as wrestling sex symboll L'il Nate and BG James.
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Saturday, April 8 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Sunday, April 9 - The Comic Strip
Wednesday, April 12 - The Comic Strip
Friday, April 21 - Student Distress Centre Fundraiser
Saturday, April 26 - Legion, Red Deer
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal (subjects to be announced)
March 31
April 14 - (Subjects to be announced)
April 28
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
The trouble with being a comedian is that if you have a bad day at the office, it's in front of a whole bunch of strangers. Last night I had a bad day at the office. Comedy is unique in that there is no way to 'practice' at home; the only way to get better is by performing in front of a live audience. I'm not bothered for myself when I do poorly--I recognize the only way to get better is by experience--but I always feel bad for crowds who paid money to watch my growing pains. If there's a bright spot, it's that I was a last-minute replacement, so another comic's name was on the marquee, and that's the name the crowd will remember. Sorry, Dana.
-MITCH FATEL is at The Comic Strip all weekend. Check him out if you get a chance. Like DEREK EDWARDS and MIKE WILMOT, he doesn't come to town often, and he's really worth seeing.
-MPW is hosting a free show at their training site (9774-54 Ave, Edmonton) Sunday at 2pm. Doors open at 1. A lot of the MPW mainstays will be there, and ladies, it may interest you to know that one of them will be BRADY ROBERTS, who was the March 14 Hunk of Day at www.ProWrestlingDaily.com, putting him in the same illustrious company as wrestling sex symboll L'il Nate and BG James.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Notes from the Weekend
Upcoming Comedy
Wednesday, March 15 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Sunday, March 19 - The Comic Strip
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Saturday, April 8 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Sunday, April 9 - The Comic Strip
Wednesday, April 12 - The Comic Strip
Friday, April 21 - Student Distress Centre Fundraiser
Saturday, April 26 - Legion, Red Deer
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-The MPW Mayhem taping was awesome. MASSIVE DAMAGE and A.J. SANCHEZ crashed through a table; I got a massage from two pretty ring girls. I think any objective observer would agree that I had a better night. I so much prefer doing commentary live as opposed to in post-production. Unfortunately, I will likely be doing just that for the next show, as I’m already booked to do a middle spot at Yuk Yuks. MPW is calling for a battle royal main event, which are a bitch to do commentary for, but are awesome to watch live. We may have to re-do parts of this one, as I completely blew the finish of the Johnny Handsome/Synn vs. Steve Rivers/Darren ‘The Bomb’ Dalton. Plus I kept accidentally referring to Darren Dalton as ‘Adam Bomb.’
-Commentary is a lot of fun, although it’s a lot harder than you might think (though not as hard as actually wrestling; I did a sixty minute broadway with the ringside barriers before the show, and my arms are still sore) Basically, you’re trying to juggle a few different things.
1) Commentating on the match
2) Introducing the characters
3) Advancing or explaining the storylines
4) Hyping merchandise and the next show (check out http://www.monsterprowrestling.com/ for details)
5) Establishing your own character
When I started, I tried to completely ignore 5) as I believed then (and still do) that it’s the wrestlers and the wrestling that make the show, not the commentators. My broadcast partner RIPPER insisted that we set-up a relationship between our two personalities, and I’m glad he did. We’re not the most polished tandem out there, but I think we have pretty good chemistry. In some ways we represent extreme versions of the two common stereotypical wrestling fans--me as the smarkish, uptight internet dork and Ripper as the loud-mouthed, beer-swilling caveman. Every wrestling fan knows people like us, and I think that makes us relatable and hopefully adds character to the DVD releases.
-Speaking of strange chemistry, LARS CALLIEOU and POWERMANN are hosting a comedy show on CJSR 88.5 from 1am-3am Thursday nights/Friday mornings. Good for them. I’m interested in hearing what they sound like together as they are very different personalities. Then again, like with MPW, maybe that’s what will make the show great.
Wednesday, March 15 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Sunday, March 19 - The Comic Strip
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Saturday, April 8 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Sunday, April 9 - The Comic Strip
Wednesday, April 12 - The Comic Strip
Friday, April 21 - Student Distress Centre Fundraiser
Saturday, April 26 - Legion, Red Deer
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-The MPW Mayhem taping was awesome. MASSIVE DAMAGE and A.J. SANCHEZ crashed through a table; I got a massage from two pretty ring girls. I think any objective observer would agree that I had a better night. I so much prefer doing commentary live as opposed to in post-production. Unfortunately, I will likely be doing just that for the next show, as I’m already booked to do a middle spot at Yuk Yuks. MPW is calling for a battle royal main event, which are a bitch to do commentary for, but are awesome to watch live. We may have to re-do parts of this one, as I completely blew the finish of the Johnny Handsome/Synn vs. Steve Rivers/Darren ‘The Bomb’ Dalton. Plus I kept accidentally referring to Darren Dalton as ‘Adam Bomb.’
-Commentary is a lot of fun, although it’s a lot harder than you might think (though not as hard as actually wrestling; I did a sixty minute broadway with the ringside barriers before the show, and my arms are still sore) Basically, you’re trying to juggle a few different things.
1) Commentating on the match
2) Introducing the characters
3) Advancing or explaining the storylines
4) Hyping merchandise and the next show (check out http://www.monsterprowrestling.com/ for details)
5) Establishing your own character
When I started, I tried to completely ignore 5) as I believed then (and still do) that it’s the wrestlers and the wrestling that make the show, not the commentators. My broadcast partner RIPPER insisted that we set-up a relationship between our two personalities, and I’m glad he did. We’re not the most polished tandem out there, but I think we have pretty good chemistry. In some ways we represent extreme versions of the two common stereotypical wrestling fans--me as the smarkish, uptight internet dork and Ripper as the loud-mouthed, beer-swilling caveman. Every wrestling fan knows people like us, and I think that makes us relatable and hopefully adds character to the DVD releases.
-Speaking of strange chemistry, LARS CALLIEOU and POWERMANN are hosting a comedy show on CJSR 88.5 from 1am-3am Thursday nights/Friday mornings. Good for them. I’m interested in hearing what they sound like together as they are very different personalities. Then again, like with MPW, maybe that’s what will make the show great.
Friday, March 10, 2006
Upcoming Comedy
Wednesday, March 1 - The Comic Strip
Sunday, March 19 - The Comic Strip
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Saturday, April 8 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Friday, April 21 - Student Distress Centre Fundraiser
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-Did I brag about the Student Distress Centre fundraiser I'll be MCing? A volunteer from the SDC has put together a comedy show to raise funds for the SDC and the Distress Line. I've volunteered for the Distress Line for a couple years now, and I'm proud to be a part of it. A big thank you also needs to go out to LARS CALLIEOU who is headlining the show and the other comics who will be donating their time (MARK SALAMANDICK, KATHLEEN MCGEE, ANDREW IWANYK)
-MIKE WILMOT is in town at Yuk Yuks, and I strongly encourage you to see him. He's a fantastic comic. GERRY DEE is middling. I saw him for the first time last night and he's really awesome as well (you'd think a professional writer like myself would be able to come up with something better than 'really awesome' but...whatever). Last night MARK SALAMANDICK MC'd for the first time at the last minute and did a really aweso...superlative job. A bunch of other comics came down to watch the show....KEN VALGARDSON, PAUL SVEEN, KENDALL GAWRYLUK, and KERRY UNGER, and I think we had more fun than the audience.
-Speaking of KERRY UNGER, readers of SEE magazine will have seen his cartoons appearing as part of Yuk Yuks latest ad campaigns. Congratulations go out to Kerry as this has been the realization of a longtime dream for him...not the cartooning, but the working in advertising. See folks--dreams do come true.
-Monster Pro Wrestling's Mayhem show is tomorrow. Check out the www.monsterprowrestling.com for ticket info. For those of you wondering about the Battleground show, we're still working on the post-production stuff. I think that show is cursed.
-Between beers, cigarettes, and various other substances, WILMOT had a cool show-biz quote. Apparently when asked about his life style in showbiz, an old New Orleans jazz musician said: "There's two kinds of people in the world. There's Day People and Night People. Day people get up every morning and go to work their whole lives so they can give money to the Night People."
Wednesday, March 1 - The Comic Strip
Sunday, March 19 - The Comic Strip
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Saturday, April 8 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Friday, April 21 - Student Distress Centre Fundraiser
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-Did I brag about the Student Distress Centre fundraiser I'll be MCing? A volunteer from the SDC has put together a comedy show to raise funds for the SDC and the Distress Line. I've volunteered for the Distress Line for a couple years now, and I'm proud to be a part of it. A big thank you also needs to go out to LARS CALLIEOU who is headlining the show and the other comics who will be donating their time (MARK SALAMANDICK, KATHLEEN MCGEE, ANDREW IWANYK)
-MIKE WILMOT is in town at Yuk Yuks, and I strongly encourage you to see him. He's a fantastic comic. GERRY DEE is middling. I saw him for the first time last night and he's really awesome as well (you'd think a professional writer like myself would be able to come up with something better than 'really awesome' but...whatever). Last night MARK SALAMANDICK MC'd for the first time at the last minute and did a really aweso...superlative job. A bunch of other comics came down to watch the show....KEN VALGARDSON, PAUL SVEEN, KENDALL GAWRYLUK, and KERRY UNGER, and I think we had more fun than the audience.
-Speaking of KERRY UNGER, readers of SEE magazine will have seen his cartoons appearing as part of Yuk Yuks latest ad campaigns. Congratulations go out to Kerry as this has been the realization of a longtime dream for him...not the cartooning, but the working in advertising. See folks--dreams do come true.
-Monster Pro Wrestling's Mayhem show is tomorrow. Check out the www.monsterprowrestling.com for ticket info. For those of you wondering about the Battleground show, we're still working on the post-production stuff. I think that show is cursed.
-Between beers, cigarettes, and various other substances, WILMOT had a cool show-biz quote. Apparently when asked about his life style in showbiz, an old New Orleans jazz musician said: "There's two kinds of people in the world. There's Day People and Night People. Day people get up every morning and go to work their whole lives so they can give money to the Night People."
Monday, February 27, 2006
For those of you wondering...
Upcoming Comedy
Wednesday, March 1 - The Comic Strip
Sunday, March 19 - The Comic Strip
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, March 3 - The Dice Whisperer
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
- In my Journal article this Friday, I ask about which seven celebrities I'd want with me if zombies took over the world (I love my job). Here they are:
Sarah Chalke
Martha Stewart
Chris Benoit
Alan Iverson
Eliza Dushku
Ted Nugent
Lance Armstrong
Feel free to e-mail me with your own choices at dbrodribb@hotmail.com. I'm always willing to hear someone else's case.
-On Thursday I did a show in Lake Louise. ANDREW GROSE headlined and the show went great, though we got stuck in a snowstorm on the way down and the hotel was overbooked so we had to stay elsewhere. Andrew wrote about it in his blog at www.andrewgrose.com. The creepy thing is he wrote the blog before we even left Edmonton. I guess we can add psychic powers to his list of credits.
-I met HEATH MCCOY on Sunday at a signing for his book, PAIN & PASSION, which is a history of Stampede Wrestling. If you're from Alberta, you probably grew up with Stampede, so it's cool seeing that history isn't going to be lost. The best part was GIL HAYES, who wrestled in Stampede from 1967-1985, stopped by with a scrapbook featuring photos of some of his matches. Very cool.
Wednesday, March 1 - The Comic Strip
Sunday, March 19 - The Comic Strip
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, March 3 - The Dice Whisperer
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
- In my Journal article this Friday, I ask about which seven celebrities I'd want with me if zombies took over the world (I love my job). Here they are:
Sarah Chalke
Martha Stewart
Chris Benoit
Alan Iverson
Eliza Dushku
Ted Nugent
Lance Armstrong
Feel free to e-mail me with your own choices at dbrodribb@hotmail.com. I'm always willing to hear someone else's case.
-On Thursday I did a show in Lake Louise. ANDREW GROSE headlined and the show went great, though we got stuck in a snowstorm on the way down and the hotel was overbooked so we had to stay elsewhere. Andrew wrote about it in his blog at www.andrewgrose.com. The creepy thing is he wrote the blog before we even left Edmonton. I guess we can add psychic powers to his list of credits.
-I met HEATH MCCOY on Sunday at a signing for his book, PAIN & PASSION, which is a history of Stampede Wrestling. If you're from Alberta, you probably grew up with Stampede, so it's cool seeing that history isn't going to be lost. The best part was GIL HAYES, who wrestled in Stampede from 1967-1985, stopped by with a scrapbook featuring photos of some of his matches. Very cool.
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
End of an Era
Upcoming Comedy
Thursday, February 23 - Private Function, Chateau Lake Louise
Wednesday, March 1 - The Comic Strip
Sunday, March 19 - The Comic Strip
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, March 3 - The Dice Whisperer
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-Monday was the last open stage at the Sidetrack Cafe's current location before moving to a new address. The Sidetrack is where comedy in Edmonton started before the arrival of Yuks. On hand to commemorate the occasion were myself, BRIAN HEGGE, POWERMANN, LARS CALLIEOU, ANDREW IWANYK, and KATHLEEN MCGEE (and her posse). The place was packed with musicians wanting to pay their last respects. Lots of fun.
-I think I've been doing too much comedy lately. Not really, but last night I had a dream that I was at ANDREW GROSE's house (Which I've never been to, but in my dream it looked like the U of A Hospital's Snell Hall). I was doing a guest spot with STEVE MCCARTHY, except the MC, PAUL SVEEN was doing renovations to the house as he hosted, so I had to do my set from a scaffold on the second floor. Bizarre. Maybe it's my brain's way of telling me I have to focus more on my writing. No wait, that's what my editor tells me.
-Apparently the MPW show in Bonnie Doon mall is go. It starts at 2pm, and it looks like we'll be taping so I'll be there for commentary. The next show after that is March 11 at the usual Alberta Ave. Community Hall. I still have to overdub commentary for February's show, so I better take care of my voice.
Thursday, February 23 - Private Function, Chateau Lake Louise
Wednesday, March 1 - The Comic Strip
Sunday, March 19 - The Comic Strip
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, March 3 - The Dice Whisperer
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-Monday was the last open stage at the Sidetrack Cafe's current location before moving to a new address. The Sidetrack is where comedy in Edmonton started before the arrival of Yuks. On hand to commemorate the occasion were myself, BRIAN HEGGE, POWERMANN, LARS CALLIEOU, ANDREW IWANYK, and KATHLEEN MCGEE (and her posse). The place was packed with musicians wanting to pay their last respects. Lots of fun.
-I think I've been doing too much comedy lately. Not really, but last night I had a dream that I was at ANDREW GROSE's house (Which I've never been to, but in my dream it looked like the U of A Hospital's Snell Hall). I was doing a guest spot with STEVE MCCARTHY, except the MC, PAUL SVEEN was doing renovations to the house as he hosted, so I had to do my set from a scaffold on the second floor. Bizarre. Maybe it's my brain's way of telling me I have to focus more on my writing. No wait, that's what my editor tells me.
-Apparently the MPW show in Bonnie Doon mall is go. It starts at 2pm, and it looks like we'll be taping so I'll be there for commentary. The next show after that is March 11 at the usual Alberta Ave. Community Hall. I still have to overdub commentary for February's show, so I better take care of my voice.
Thursday, February 16, 2006
Update
Upcoming Comedy
Sunday, February 19 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, February 23 - Private Function, Chateau Lake Louise
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, March 3 - The Dice Whisperer
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-Check SEE magazine in the next few weeks, and you may see some ads for Yuk Yuks featuring the cartooning skills of KERRY UNGER. In addition to being one of my favorite comics, Kerry is a skilled cartoonist--instead of CDs, he sells greeting cards after his shows. He's also recording a CD of his songs with WINSTON HERBERT, and having heard his songs, I'm looking forward to that as well.
An interesting side note: Wednesday, Kerry actually included my name in a new joke he's working on about a discussion we had regarding the origin of the name of the Detroit Red Wings hockey team. I'm not sure how I feel about this--on one hand, I'm flattered to be included in the act of someone whose work I've admired for so long, but on the other what I said was so appalling, I'm kind of embarassed to have that particular comment associated with me (to make matters worse, Kerry actually had to clean up what I said to make the joke even remotely presentable, even to a bar crowd)
-There's an MPW show in Bonnie Doon Mall next Saturday at 2pm. I'll be there to do commentary on the action. It's my understanding that a few of the MPW stalwarts are on Tony Condello's Northern Hell tour right now. If so, it should be a great opportunity for some of the other guys to step up and get a little more time.
Sunday, February 19 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, February 23 - Private Function, Chateau Lake Louise
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, March 3 - The Dice Whisperer
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-Check SEE magazine in the next few weeks, and you may see some ads for Yuk Yuks featuring the cartooning skills of KERRY UNGER. In addition to being one of my favorite comics, Kerry is a skilled cartoonist--instead of CDs, he sells greeting cards after his shows. He's also recording a CD of his songs with WINSTON HERBERT, and having heard his songs, I'm looking forward to that as well.
An interesting side note: Wednesday, Kerry actually included my name in a new joke he's working on about a discussion we had regarding the origin of the name of the Detroit Red Wings hockey team. I'm not sure how I feel about this--on one hand, I'm flattered to be included in the act of someone whose work I've admired for so long, but on the other what I said was so appalling, I'm kind of embarassed to have that particular comment associated with me (to make matters worse, Kerry actually had to clean up what I said to make the joke even remotely presentable, even to a bar crowd)
-There's an MPW show in Bonnie Doon Mall next Saturday at 2pm. I'll be there to do commentary on the action. It's my understanding that a few of the MPW stalwarts are on Tony Condello's Northern Hell tour right now. If so, it should be a great opportunity for some of the other guys to step up and get a little more time.
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Newz of the World
Upcoming Comedy
Saturday, February 11 - Ft. McMurray
Sunday, February 12 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, February 14 - Drayton Valley
Sunday, February 19 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, February 23 - Private Function, Chateau Lake Louise
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, February 10 - Valentine's Day
Friday, February 17 - Three's a Crowd
Friday, March 3 - The Dice Whisperer
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-I had a good weekend of shows opening for JEBB FINK. The guy's been doing comedy for over two decades, so if you can't learn from watching him, you're doing something wrong. I also noticed the way he conducted himself offstage, making sure to take the time to talk to people who came up to him after the show. The ticket-buying (or newspaper buying) public is what keeps us show-biz types working, so there's something to be said for taking the time to be nice.
-LARS CALLIEOU headlined his first club show on Sunday at The Comic Strip. It was a great night, and I was proud to be a part of it. As a frequent MC, Lars has probably brought me to the stage more than any comic (Second place goes to PAUL MYREHAUG. He MC'd my very first show, my very first middle spot...and now he's moving to Toronto. He's one of the sweetest guys I know and very funny, so I wish him the best of luck, though with his talent, he doesn't need it).
-Congratulations are also in order to CODY, who is heading up to Calgary to take care of business at the Yuk Yuks there. From management to wait staff to the box office, comedy club staff are often overlooked, but they really are such an important part of keeping the show running smoothly...so make sure you tip them well (that way I can hit them up to buy me pretty things).
-My writing course through Metro will be proceeding. Fifty percent of the enrolled students are female which is new for me. SF and Fantasy aren't typically female-dominated genres. It's also a smaller class than I'm used to running, but I'm looking forward to seeing how things go.
-Black Gate magazine like the idea I've come up with for a sequel to my short story "The Girl Who Feared Lightning." As you read this, I'll probably be hard at work developing it.
Saturday, February 11 - Ft. McMurray
Sunday, February 12 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, February 14 - Drayton Valley
Sunday, February 19 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, February 23 - Private Function, Chateau Lake Louise
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, February 10 - Valentine's Day
Friday, February 17 - Three's a Crowd
Friday, March 3 - The Dice Whisperer
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-I had a good weekend of shows opening for JEBB FINK. The guy's been doing comedy for over two decades, so if you can't learn from watching him, you're doing something wrong. I also noticed the way he conducted himself offstage, making sure to take the time to talk to people who came up to him after the show. The ticket-buying (or newspaper buying) public is what keeps us show-biz types working, so there's something to be said for taking the time to be nice.
-LARS CALLIEOU headlined his first club show on Sunday at The Comic Strip. It was a great night, and I was proud to be a part of it. As a frequent MC, Lars has probably brought me to the stage more than any comic (Second place goes to PAUL MYREHAUG. He MC'd my very first show, my very first middle spot...and now he's moving to Toronto. He's one of the sweetest guys I know and very funny, so I wish him the best of luck, though with his talent, he doesn't need it).
-Congratulations are also in order to CODY, who is heading up to Calgary to take care of business at the Yuk Yuks there. From management to wait staff to the box office, comedy club staff are often overlooked, but they really are such an important part of keeping the show running smoothly...so make sure you tip them well (that way I can hit them up to buy me pretty things).
-My writing course through Metro will be proceeding. Fifty percent of the enrolled students are female which is new for me. SF and Fantasy aren't typically female-dominated genres. It's also a smaller class than I'm used to running, but I'm looking forward to seeing how things go.
-Black Gate magazine like the idea I've come up with for a sequel to my short story "The Girl Who Feared Lightning." As you read this, I'll probably be hard at work developing it.
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Update
Upcoming Comedy
Wednesday, February 1 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Thursday, February 2 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Friday, February 3 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Saturday, February 4 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Saturday, February 11 - Ft. McMurray
Sunday, February 12 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, February 14 - Drayton Valley
Sunday, February 19 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, February 23 - Private Function, Chateau Lake Louise
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, February 10 - Valentine's Day
Friday, February 17 - Three's a Crowd
Friday, March 3 - The Dice Whisperer
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-As you can see it's going to be a busy February for me. I'm also teaching a class on Writing Fantasy and Science Fiction through Metro Continuing Education (www.metrocontinuingeducation.com). If you're interested in such things, there's still time to sign up before classes start on Monday, February 6.
-It feels like there's a thousand things going on right now, but now that I'm updating, I can't think of anything to report. Typical. Between the MPW stuff, writing, and getting ready for this week's comedy extravaganza at Yuks, I'm feeling pretty overwhelmed. In a good way. I never thought life could get so good. Thank you to all of you who have shared the ride with me.
Wednesday, February 1 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Thursday, February 2 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Friday, February 3 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Saturday, February 4 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Saturday, February 11 - Ft. McMurray
Sunday, February 12 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, February 14 - Drayton Valley
Sunday, February 19 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, February 23 - Private Function, Chateau Lake Louise
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, February 10 - Valentine's Day
Friday, February 17 - Three's a Crowd
Friday, March 3 - The Dice Whisperer
Friday, March 17 - Son of Elvis
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-As you can see it's going to be a busy February for me. I'm also teaching a class on Writing Fantasy and Science Fiction through Metro Continuing Education (www.metrocontinuingeducation.com). If you're interested in such things, there's still time to sign up before classes start on Monday, February 6.
-It feels like there's a thousand things going on right now, but now that I'm updating, I can't think of anything to report. Typical. Between the MPW stuff, writing, and getting ready for this week's comedy extravaganza at Yuks, I'm feeling pretty overwhelmed. In a good way. I never thought life could get so good. Thank you to all of you who have shared the ride with me.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Update
Upcoming Comedy
Tuesday, January 24 - Prism, Edmonton--Living Positive Benefit
Thursday, February 2 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Friday, February 3 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Saturday, February 4 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Sunday, February 5 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, February 14 - Drayton Valley
Sunday, February 19 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, February 10 - Valentine's Day
Friday, February 17 - Three's a Crowd
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-Tonight is the Living Positive benefit at Prism. LARS CALLIEOU is headlining, and if you've seen him before, you know what he can do. The two of us hung out and talked shop at the Sidetack Cafe's Open Mic last night (hosted by talented local musician BEN SPENCER). Monday nights at the Sidetrack is a great place for stage time if you're a local musician, and it's also a great place to check out a lot of great local acts if you're a fan of music and comedy (Interesting historical note: I'm told that at one time the venerable Sidetrack was the ONLY place in town that did comedy, before the arrival of Yuk Yuks in the 80s) .
-I did the commentary for some tapings on Sunday for MPW's Camp Wars. The matches should be shown on the www.monsterprowrestling.com website over the next little while. Also available shortly will be the January Madness DVD--KENNETH BARR of Idion Inc. did a really great job of putting everything together. It's been exciting to watch MPW grow since I first saw them in May of 2005. and the fact they've come so far so fast is a testament to a lot of hard work by the people involved. Don't forget the MPW TV Taping on February 4 (Radio personality YUKON JACK from 100.3 The Bear will be covering for me on commentary as I'll be performing at Yuks). The last show sold out, so make sure to get your tickets now.
-Congratulations to ANDREW IWANYK, who according to all accounts has earned himself a spot at the prestigious Just For Laughs Festival. I can't tell you how fantastic it is to see Andrew's uniqueness and creativity recognized by someone other than those of us who have had the pleasure of sharing a stage with him for so many months (years, in some cases). There are times when it feels there's no justice in show-biz--or in life--but sometimes somthing happens when it feels like all is right with the world and this is one of those good times.
Tuesday, January 24 - Prism, Edmonton--Living Positive Benefit
Thursday, February 2 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Friday, February 3 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Saturday, February 4 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Sunday, February 5 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, February 14 - Drayton Valley
Sunday, February 19 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Saturday, April 1 - The Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Living Articles in the Edmonton Journal
Friday, February 10 - Valentine's Day
Friday, February 17 - Three's a Crowd
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed magazine supplement to the Edmonton Journal
-Tonight is the Living Positive benefit at Prism. LARS CALLIEOU is headlining, and if you've seen him before, you know what he can do. The two of us hung out and talked shop at the Sidetack Cafe's Open Mic last night (hosted by talented local musician BEN SPENCER). Monday nights at the Sidetrack is a great place for stage time if you're a local musician, and it's also a great place to check out a lot of great local acts if you're a fan of music and comedy (Interesting historical note: I'm told that at one time the venerable Sidetrack was the ONLY place in town that did comedy, before the arrival of Yuk Yuks in the 80s) .
-I did the commentary for some tapings on Sunday for MPW's Camp Wars. The matches should be shown on the www.monsterprowrestling.com website over the next little while. Also available shortly will be the January Madness DVD--KENNETH BARR of Idion Inc. did a really great job of putting everything together. It's been exciting to watch MPW grow since I first saw them in May of 2005. and the fact they've come so far so fast is a testament to a lot of hard work by the people involved. Don't forget the MPW TV Taping on February 4 (Radio personality YUKON JACK from 100.3 The Bear will be covering for me on commentary as I'll be performing at Yuks). The last show sold out, so make sure to get your tickets now.
-Congratulations to ANDREW IWANYK, who according to all accounts has earned himself a spot at the prestigious Just For Laughs Festival. I can't tell you how fantastic it is to see Andrew's uniqueness and creativity recognized by someone other than those of us who have had the pleasure of sharing a stage with him for so many months (years, in some cases). There are times when it feels there's no justice in show-biz--or in life--but sometimes somthing happens when it feels like all is right with the world and this is one of those good times.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
ADDENDUM
Couple things I forgot to mention in the last update.
-Next Tuesday at Prism nightclub there's a comedy benefit for Living Positive, which raises funds for people living with HIV. The show usually starts around 10pm and the address is 10524 101 Street. It's a worthy cause, and should be a great show, so come down and feel good about laughing while you make the world a better place.
-Tonight at The Locker Room on 11834 Kingsway Ave., MPW is showing a sneak preview of the TV taping for January Madness. A lot of the MPW stars will be there, so come down and meet some of them so you'll know who I'm talking about. And stay to watch the show, which features none other than myself (as 'Martial' Art McNeil) calling the action with my broadcast partner RIPPER (one of the most passionate supporters of MPW I know). For more info check out www.monsterprowrestling.com
-Next Tuesday at Prism nightclub there's a comedy benefit for Living Positive, which raises funds for people living with HIV. The show usually starts around 10pm and the address is 10524 101 Street. It's a worthy cause, and should be a great show, so come down and feel good about laughing while you make the world a better place.
-Tonight at The Locker Room on 11834 Kingsway Ave., MPW is showing a sneak preview of the TV taping for January Madness. A lot of the MPW stars will be there, so come down and meet some of them so you'll know who I'm talking about. And stay to watch the show, which features none other than myself (as 'Martial' Art McNeil) calling the action with my broadcast partner RIPPER (one of the most passionate supporters of MPW I know). For more info check out www.monsterprowrestling.com
Monday, January 16, 2006
Update.
Upcoming Comedy
Wednesday, January 18 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, January 24 - Prism, Edmonton- Living Positive Fundraiser
Saturday, April 1 - Stettler Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Friday, January 20 - Almost Famous, Edmonton Journal, Living Section
Friday, February 10 - Valentine's Day, Edmonton Journal, Living Section
Friday, February 17 - Three's a Crowd, Edmonton Journal, Living Section
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed section of the Edmonton Journal.
-It's great being around people who are passionate about what they do. It inspires you to work harder to achieve your own dreams, because you realize that chasing the dream is where the fun is, not achieving it. Whether it's talking shop about comedy with KATHLEEN, LARS, ANDREW IWANYK, and POWERMANN at the sidetrack, or looking at what director KENNETH BARR has done with the MPW footage, the thing that sets them apart is that they love what they do.
-Shot the photos for the next series of Living Articles. The next one will see publication on Friday.
-By the time you should read this, I will hopefully have finished the voiceover commentary for MPW Madness. The powers that be are in negotiations to have it air on a local TV station.
Wednesday, January 18 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Tuesday, January 24 - Prism, Edmonton- Living Positive Fundraiser
Saturday, April 1 - Stettler Legion, Stettler
Upcoming Writing
Friday, January 20 - Almost Famous, Edmonton Journal, Living Section
Friday, February 10 - Valentine's Day, Edmonton Journal, Living Section
Friday, February 17 - Three's a Crowd, Edmonton Journal, Living Section
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the ed section of the Edmonton Journal.
-It's great being around people who are passionate about what they do. It inspires you to work harder to achieve your own dreams, because you realize that chasing the dream is where the fun is, not achieving it. Whether it's talking shop about comedy with KATHLEEN, LARS, ANDREW IWANYK, and POWERMANN at the sidetrack, or looking at what director KENNETH BARR has done with the MPW footage, the thing that sets them apart is that they love what they do.
-Shot the photos for the next series of Living Articles. The next one will see publication on Friday.
-By the time you should read this, I will hopefully have finished the voiceover commentary for MPW Madness. The powers that be are in negotiations to have it air on a local TV station.
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Update
Upcoming Writing
Friday, January 20 - Almost Famous, Edmonton Journal Living Section
Friday, February 10 - Valentine's Day, Edmonton Journal Living Section
Friday, February 17 - Untitled Love Triangle Column, Edmonton Journal Living Section
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the Edmonton Journal's ed magazine
Upcoming Comedy
January 18 - The Comic Strip
-I finished the final edits on "The Girl Who Feared Lightning." Look for it in Issue #11 of Black Gate magazine (http://www.blackgatemagazine.com). There's been talk of making "Girl..." into an ongoing series of short stories. Needless to say, I'm excited at the idea.
-The Monster Pro Wrestling television taping was a rousing success. It's proof that hard work pays off--no matter what industry you're in--been great to see how far the organization and its wrestlers have progressed since I've started going to their shows last May. It was also great to see KENNETH BARR again, whom I worked with on the movie 'Reroute.' Ken was in charge of the technical end, and I'll be meeting him later in the week to do some post-production commentary stuff. The next MPW show is February 4, but they're holding a free Camp Wars show at their training facility on January 22. Check their website (www.monsterprowrestling.com) for details.
-Last Thursday I middled at the Edmonton Yuk Yuks. PAUL MYREHAUG and PAUL SVEEN were on the show and as always, I learned a lot watching them. Sveen was the first guy to tell me to really open up and let the audience into your world. He has a more philosophical approach to the art of stand-up, and it's pretty effective, not to mention inspirational. On another note, I'm told PAUL MYREHAUG will be moving to Toronto to seek fame and fortune. I'll miss him a lot--next to Lars, he's probably introduced me more than anybody else, and I'm superstitious about my 'good luck MCs'. Good Luck, Paul.
-I talk a lot about the comics who have influenced me, but I rarely refer to my writing influences, so for those of you who have asked, here are a few non-fiction (I may cover fiction in a future entry) writers whose work I really enjoy reading:
MISS ALLI - She writes for www.televisionwithoutpity.com doing recaps of various shows. Her Survivor recaps are so hilarious I don't even bother to watch the show anymore--I don't want to spoil the recap.
BILL SIMMONS aka The Sports Guy--He does sports and pop culture for ESPN (www.espn.com). Obviously, if you aren't into either, you probably won't like him, but I think he's hilarious.
CHUCK KLOSTERMAN - author of Fargo Rock City and Killing Yourself to Live. He writes about music, but also relates it to his own life. He once compared his ex-girfriends to members of the band KISS. Well worth reading.
Friday, January 20 - Almost Famous, Edmonton Journal Living Section
Friday, February 10 - Valentine's Day, Edmonton Journal Living Section
Friday, February 17 - Untitled Love Triangle Column, Edmonton Journal Living Section
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears every Saturday in the Edmonton Journal's ed magazine
Upcoming Comedy
January 18 - The Comic Strip
-I finished the final edits on "The Girl Who Feared Lightning." Look for it in Issue #11 of Black Gate magazine (http://www.blackgatemagazine.com). There's been talk of making "Girl..." into an ongoing series of short stories. Needless to say, I'm excited at the idea.
-The Monster Pro Wrestling television taping was a rousing success. It's proof that hard work pays off--no matter what industry you're in--been great to see how far the organization and its wrestlers have progressed since I've started going to their shows last May. It was also great to see KENNETH BARR again, whom I worked with on the movie 'Reroute.' Ken was in charge of the technical end, and I'll be meeting him later in the week to do some post-production commentary stuff. The next MPW show is February 4, but they're holding a free Camp Wars show at their training facility on January 22. Check their website (www.monsterprowrestling.com) for details.
-Last Thursday I middled at the Edmonton Yuk Yuks. PAUL MYREHAUG and PAUL SVEEN were on the show and as always, I learned a lot watching them. Sveen was the first guy to tell me to really open up and let the audience into your world. He has a more philosophical approach to the art of stand-up, and it's pretty effective, not to mention inspirational. On another note, I'm told PAUL MYREHAUG will be moving to Toronto to seek fame and fortune. I'll miss him a lot--next to Lars, he's probably introduced me more than anybody else, and I'm superstitious about my 'good luck MCs'. Good Luck, Paul.
-I talk a lot about the comics who have influenced me, but I rarely refer to my writing influences, so for those of you who have asked, here are a few non-fiction (I may cover fiction in a future entry) writers whose work I really enjoy reading:
MISS ALLI - She writes for www.televisionwithoutpity.com doing recaps of various shows. Her Survivor recaps are so hilarious I don't even bother to watch the show anymore--I don't want to spoil the recap.
BILL SIMMONS aka The Sports Guy--He does sports and pop culture for ESPN (www.espn.com). Obviously, if you aren't into either, you probably won't like him, but I think he's hilarious.
CHUCK KLOSTERMAN - author of Fargo Rock City and Killing Yourself to Live. He writes about music, but also relates it to his own life. He once compared his ex-girfriends to members of the band KISS. Well worth reading.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Upcoming Comedy
Thursday, January 5 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Sunday, January 8 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, January 18 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
-Hope everybody had great holidays. I know I sure did.
-I finished up a couple more stories. They are currently floating around seeking a home.
-MPW show is at the usual place on Saturday, January 7. Though it hasn't been confirmed on the official site yet (www.monsterprowrestling.com), rumor has it they'll be taping for TV, so you might want to come on down and bring a sign celebrating your favorite MPW personality (Ace Davidson!). There's also been some discussion about me being a part of the event in some capacity either as an interviewer or as a play-by-play announcer, so that's pretty exciting if it goes through.
-I'll post my upcoming writing dates once I know when stuff is coming out. Everything slowed down because of the holidays.
Thursday, January 5 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Sunday, January 8 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Wednesday, January 18 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
-Hope everybody had great holidays. I know I sure did.
-I finished up a couple more stories. They are currently floating around seeking a home.
-MPW show is at the usual place on Saturday, January 7. Though it hasn't been confirmed on the official site yet (www.monsterprowrestling.com), rumor has it they'll be taping for TV, so you might want to come on down and bring a sign celebrating your favorite MPW personality (Ace Davidson!). There's also been some discussion about me being a part of the event in some capacity either as an interviewer or as a play-by-play announcer, so that's pretty exciting if it goes through.
-I'll post my upcoming writing dates once I know when stuff is coming out. Everything slowed down because of the holidays.
Friday, December 16, 2005
pre Christmas Update
Upcoming Comedy
Thursday, January 5 - Yuk Yuks
Upcoming writin
Friday, January 30 - New Year's Resolutions, the Edmonton Journal
Happy Holidays Everyone! I wish everyone and their families all the best.
-And what goes with Christmas better than zombies? All this week I'll be answering questions in the forums at www.allthingszombie.com about my short story "Glass Houses." Where can I get a copy of "Glass Houses" I hear you ask? Why it's available in the anthology "Cold Flesh, which you can purchase on line at www.hellboundbooks.com
-I had the pleasure of meeting a woman named CARISSA REINIGER after the show on Sunday. Not only is she the president of a company called Silver Lining (www.silverlining.ws), along with Sarah Hutchison and Karen Henderson, she's edited a book called STORIES FROM OUR BLACK BOOKS, a compilation of stories from Canadian women who have played the dating game. LARS bought a copy, partially to learn female dating secrets, but more likely to see how many of the stories have his name in them. Still it looks great, and if you're looking for a gift for a mom, sister, girfriend, etc. check out www.silverlining.ws/blackbook for more.
-I hooked a couple of women at my day job on the 'whacky-mole' game at www.toddk.ca. I deserve a finder's fee. Or at least have my picture in the Memory Game.
Monday, December 12, 2005
Office gossip
Upcoming
Comedy
Wednesday, December 14 - Yuk Yuks
Sunday, December 18 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, January 5 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Writing
Friday, December 16 - Christmas Shopping in the Edmonton Journal Living Section
Friday, December 30 - New Year's in the Edmonton Journal Living Section
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears in every Saturday in the Edmonton Journal's ed magazine.
-Had a good time on Sunday. The crowd at THE COMIC STRIP was fantastic. Before the show headliner JOHN WESSLING--a great guy--gave us a preview of his documentary HELLGIG USA, where Wessling and two other comics played 50 shows in 50 days in the 50 American states (Yes, that includes Alaska and Hawaii). Now that's doing it for the love of the game. Very inspirational. Afterwards, Wessling hung out with us for a bit, delivered a phenomenal show, and left in the company of a pair of 'exotic dancers' he met the night before. Like I said, very inspirational
-Also on Sunday, KELLY SOLODUKA established his presence as a new ladies' man in town--he convinced a pair of lovelies from a local spa to join the comics for drinks after the show. Funny thing was, he hadn't even performed that night. Looks like LARS has got himself some competition. I, of course, was a perfect gentleman.
-Monday, POWERMANN and I went to the Sidetrack open stage where we put on an absolutely ludicrous vaudeviller routine. It was a pretty good crowd too--the extremely talented human beat box SHAMMIK (sp?) was celebrating his birthday. In hindsight, with that sort of crowd, we should have done a regular show, but a few people enjoyed it, and just like John Wessling, sometimes you have to do stuff for the love of the game. Say good night, Powermann.
-Is there another Dan B playing the memory game at www.toddk.ca? I'm sure I've never scored higher than the low fifties.
Comedy
Wednesday, December 14 - Yuk Yuks
Sunday, December 18 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, January 5 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Writing
Friday, December 16 - Christmas Shopping in the Edmonton Journal Living Section
Friday, December 30 - New Year's in the Edmonton Journal Living Section
Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears in every Saturday in the Edmonton Journal's ed magazine.
-Had a good time on Sunday. The crowd at THE COMIC STRIP was fantastic. Before the show headliner JOHN WESSLING--a great guy--gave us a preview of his documentary HELLGIG USA, where Wessling and two other comics played 50 shows in 50 days in the 50 American states (Yes, that includes Alaska and Hawaii). Now that's doing it for the love of the game. Very inspirational. Afterwards, Wessling hung out with us for a bit, delivered a phenomenal show, and left in the company of a pair of 'exotic dancers' he met the night before. Like I said, very inspirational
-Also on Sunday, KELLY SOLODUKA established his presence as a new ladies' man in town--he convinced a pair of lovelies from a local spa to join the comics for drinks after the show. Funny thing was, he hadn't even performed that night. Looks like LARS has got himself some competition. I, of course, was a perfect gentleman.
-Monday, POWERMANN and I went to the Sidetrack open stage where we put on an absolutely ludicrous vaudeviller routine. It was a pretty good crowd too--the extremely talented human beat box SHAMMIK (sp?) was celebrating his birthday. In hindsight, with that sort of crowd, we should have done a regular show, but a few people enjoyed it, and just like John Wessling, sometimes you have to do stuff for the love of the game. Say good night, Powermann.
-Is there another Dan B playing the memory game at www.toddk.ca? I'm sure I've never scored higher than the low fifties.
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Addendum
-Congratuations to MARK SALAMANDICK and LARS CALLIEOU for making the semi-finals in the Corner Gas comedy competition. It's always fantastic to see things starting together for guys you've worked with and admire. Mark is part of a writing group I frequent along with J.P FOURNIER, SHAWN GRAMIAK, and TODD K (speaking of Todd, I finally broke my old high-score of 50 on the memory game on his website at www.toddk.ca). I'm told Mark and J.P. also recently recorded sets for XM radio, so that's another feather in their cap. As far as Lars goes, I can't keep up with all the things he's doing these days. He recently showcased for Just For Laughs, so their may be some Montreal in his future. Check out Mark and Lars' sets in the Comic Genius section of www.cornergas.com
Friday, December 09, 2005
November headLINES and updates
Upcoming Comedy
Sunday, December 11 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, December 18 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, January 5 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Writing
Friday, December 16 - Christmas Shopping in the Edmonton Journal Living Section
Friday, December 30 - New Year's in the Edmonton Journal Living Section
And of course, Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears in ed every Saturday in the Edmonton Journal etc. etc. etc.
-Exciting times ahead...unfortunately, with the exception of my next middle show at Yuks on January 5, nothing's been confirmed yet. Watch this space for the glorious details. In the meantime, here are November's headLINES
Tuesday, November 1 - The NBA regular season is underway with a brand new look, courtesy of Commissioner David Stern's new dress code. The NBA: Come for the basketball--Stay for the fashion. Says Indiana Pacers bad boy Ron Artest: "Not only does my new Prada handbag bring out my eyes, there's plenty of room for my brass knuckles for when we go back to Detroit."
Wednesday, November 2 - Senior U.S. Vice Presidential aide Lewis 'Scooter' Libby is charged with perjury, false statements, and obstruction of justice after it is discovered that his nickname is not really 'Scooter,' but 'Watermelon-Butt.' The real Scooter--the stage manager for The Muppet Show--declined to comment.
Thursday, November 2 - A number of Calgary companies have been caught in an oil-for-food scandal involving Saddam Hussein's former Iraqi regime. It's like an episode of Arrested Development with cowboy hats. All that's missing is Henry Winker and a stair-car.
Friday, November 3 - Raffi 'Scooter' Torres is charged with perjury, false statements, and obstruction of justice after it is discovered that his name is neither 'Raffi' nor 'Torres,' but just Scooter. The real Tico Torres--Bon Jovi's drummer--and children's entertainer Raffi both declined to comment.
Saturday, November 5 - Two weeks ago, I made fun of Sean Fleming and he led the Esks to victory with five consecutive field goals. Last week I made fun of Raffi Torres and he scored the winning goal in overtime against the Red Wings the night before the issue went to press. I think I'm onto something. Hey, Stoll! Hemsky! You guys suck! Don't rush to thank me at once, Edmonton.
Sunday, November 6 - U2 lead singer Bono is one of the backers in a merger involving Edmonton-based game company BioWare. I guess after playing Jade Empire he found what he was looking for.
Monday, November 7 - Rumor has it the NDP may try to force a Christmas election. Is 'None of the Above' going to be on the ballot? At least I'll have a legitimate excuse for not getting my shopping done.
Tuesday, November 8 - Embattled Conservative leader Stephen Harper says he's ready for a Christmas election. He's got his concession and farewell speeches ready and everything.
Wednesday, November 9 - November in Edmonton seems like a weird time to have a rodeo. Then aagain, nothing says "Yee-HAW" like sliding your Corolla uncontrollably through the Groat Road traffic circle.
Thursday, November 10 - Paul Martin says a Christmas election will grind government business to a halt. After all, a lot of those companies involved in the sponsorship scandal expect Christmas bonuses. Taxpayer dollars aren't going to give themselves away, you know.
Friday, November 11 - On Remembrance Day, I like to remember my great-uncle, a contestant on a show called 'Survivor: Vimy Ridge.' He didn't get a million dollars, but he never had to buy another drink for the rest of his life and he got a metal plate in his head that won him an astonishing number of bar bets. Kind of puts things in perspective, doesn't it?
Saturday, November 12 - NDP leader Jack Layton is politely asking Paul Martin's Liberals to pretty please make the decision to step down and call an election--a patently ridiculous strategy. The 'call an election part' is fine; the 'asking Paul Martin to make a decision' is the impossible part.
Sunday, November 13 - RIP Eddie Guerrero (1967-2005). Hope heaven is ready for some "Lyin', Cheatin,' & Stealin.'"
Monday, November 14 - As riots rock the streets, France continues to cement its reputation as a wussy country by becoming the first nation in history to surrender to itself. Ha-Ha! The only thing more fun than making fun of France is making fun of Toronto.
Tuesday, November 15 - Speaking of which, If you were part of an Alberta police force whose mandate was 'to regain the trust of the public,' would you hire a guy from Toronto? That's what I thought. At least the ethics watchdog can relax a little--the Leafs are only in town once this season.
Wednesday, November 16 - Apparently there are a lot of holes in the case against Saddam Hussein. Unfortunately, they're bullet holes, and they can be found in the torso of his defence team. He doesn't need Perry Mason. He needs 50-Cent and his bulletproof vest.
Thursday, November 17 - Has there ever been a 'Survivor' contestant more unappealing than Judd? And don't bother e-mailing me about Jonny Fairplay--At least he was interesting. If you gave me a choice between hanging out with Judd or having my brains eaten by those beetles from 'Supernatural,' I'd have to flip a coin.
Friday, November 18 - The new Harry Potter movie opens this weekend, the one where they pick his name out of the "Goblet of Fire" to do an impossible task. I don't want to give away the ending, but apparently all charges against Saddam are dropped, and the two of them fly away on Harry's magical broom.
Saturday, November 19 - O.J. Simpson says Robert Blake was a victim of injustice. Now. O.J., let's go over it one more time: Traditionally in murder cases, we reserve the term 'victim' for the dead person. There are so many punchlines here, I don't know where to begin. Too bad they're all stored behind my box of Super Nintendo cartridges in a box marked '1995.'
Sunday, November 20 - The Edmonton Eskimos teach the world a valuable lesson in cooperation and brotherhood as quarterbacks Ricky Ray and Jason Maas work together to send the Esks to the Grey Cup. If Shaq and Kobe could have done the same, the Lakers would have two more NBA titles right now.
Monday, November 21 - A woman I know on the new Parti Quebecois leader Andre Boisclair: "He looks like the bus driver for the 120 to Jasper Place. At least now I understand why the two front seats of the 7:18 are designated as 'distinct society seating.'
Tuesday, November 22 - Other Canadian celebrity lookalikes: Jason Maas...and the devil. I'm not kidding. Maybe Sean Fleming's mysterious kicking improvement over the course of the season isn't such a mystery after all.
Wednesday, November 23 - Prince Albert II ascends the throne of Monaco. Heh-heh. Prince Albert. Some days these jokes write themselves.
Thursday, November 24 – Ralph Klein is giving money away? Has he been replaced by aliens or is he just jealous that Prince Albert of Monaco has a funnier nickname than King Ralph?.
Friday, November 25 - The honeymoon is over at Edmonton Eskimos practices. Some rascal put a 'Kick Me' sign on Ricky Ray's back..and Sean Fleming put him through the uprights from forty-six yards out. Reportedly, Jason Maas laughed so hard flies came out of his mouth, but he disappeared in a flash of brimstone before reporters could get comments.
Saturday, November 26 - November 26 is Buy Nothing Day, where we refuse to indulge in our consumer culture by not spending any money, or I like to call it--Date Night.
Sunday, November 27 - The Edmonton Eskimos win the 2005 Grey Cup in overtime, capping one of the most physically gruelling seasons ever. I think I pulled a hamstring with all that jumping on and off the bandwagon.
Monday, November 28 - After the Liberals lose a non-confidence motion, the stage is set for an January vote, despite worries that "Canadians don't want another election." Yes, because Canadians have always been against democracy. Hockey games aren't decided by votes; they're decided by shoot-outs. Why should government be any different?
Tuesday, November 29 – Looks like the Black Eyed Peas have a new member—Edmonton Eskimos coach Danny Maciocia. Said Peas member Fergie: “We wanted someone with a similar dance style.”
Wednesday, November 30 - Fans everywhere are distraught over the break-up of Jessica Simpson and Nick What's-his-name. I haven't seen people this upset over a break-up since Conservative backbenchers had to retire their 'I Heart Peter and Belinda' t-shirts.
Sunday, December 11 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Sunday, December 18 - The Comic Strip, Edmonton
Thursday, January 5 - Yuk Yuks, Edmonton
Writing
Friday, December 16 - Christmas Shopping in the Edmonton Journal Living Section
Friday, December 30 - New Year's in the Edmonton Journal Living Section
And of course, Dan Brodribb's headLINES appears in ed every Saturday in the Edmonton Journal etc. etc. etc.
-Exciting times ahead...unfortunately, with the exception of my next middle show at Yuks on January 5, nothing's been confirmed yet. Watch this space for the glorious details. In the meantime, here are November's headLINES
Tuesday, November 1 - The NBA regular season is underway with a brand new look, courtesy of Commissioner David Stern's new dress code. The NBA: Come for the basketball--Stay for the fashion. Says Indiana Pacers bad boy Ron Artest: "Not only does my new Prada handbag bring out my eyes, there's plenty of room for my brass knuckles for when we go back to Detroit."
Wednesday, November 2 - Senior U.S. Vice Presidential aide Lewis 'Scooter' Libby is charged with perjury, false statements, and obstruction of justice after it is discovered that his nickname is not really 'Scooter,' but 'Watermelon-Butt.' The real Scooter--the stage manager for The Muppet Show--declined to comment.
Thursday, November 2 - A number of Calgary companies have been caught in an oil-for-food scandal involving Saddam Hussein's former Iraqi regime. It's like an episode of Arrested Development with cowboy hats. All that's missing is Henry Winker and a stair-car.
Friday, November 3 - Raffi 'Scooter' Torres is charged with perjury, false statements, and obstruction of justice after it is discovered that his name is neither 'Raffi' nor 'Torres,' but just Scooter. The real Tico Torres--Bon Jovi's drummer--and children's entertainer Raffi both declined to comment.
Saturday, November 5 - Two weeks ago, I made fun of Sean Fleming and he led the Esks to victory with five consecutive field goals. Last week I made fun of Raffi Torres and he scored the winning goal in overtime against the Red Wings the night before the issue went to press. I think I'm onto something. Hey, Stoll! Hemsky! You guys suck! Don't rush to thank me at once, Edmonton.
Sunday, November 6 - U2 lead singer Bono is one of the backers in a merger involving Edmonton-based game company BioWare. I guess after playing Jade Empire he found what he was looking for.
Monday, November 7 - Rumor has it the NDP may try to force a Christmas election. Is 'None of the Above' going to be on the ballot? At least I'll have a legitimate excuse for not getting my shopping done.
Tuesday, November 8 - Embattled Conservative leader Stephen Harper says he's ready for a Christmas election. He's got his concession and farewell speeches ready and everything.
Wednesday, November 9 - November in Edmonton seems like a weird time to have a rodeo. Then aagain, nothing says "Yee-HAW" like sliding your Corolla uncontrollably through the Groat Road traffic circle.
Thursday, November 10 - Paul Martin says a Christmas election will grind government business to a halt. After all, a lot of those companies involved in the sponsorship scandal expect Christmas bonuses. Taxpayer dollars aren't going to give themselves away, you know.
Friday, November 11 - On Remembrance Day, I like to remember my great-uncle, a contestant on a show called 'Survivor: Vimy Ridge.' He didn't get a million dollars, but he never had to buy another drink for the rest of his life and he got a metal plate in his head that won him an astonishing number of bar bets. Kind of puts things in perspective, doesn't it?
Saturday, November 12 - NDP leader Jack Layton is politely asking Paul Martin's Liberals to pretty please make the decision to step down and call an election--a patently ridiculous strategy. The 'call an election part' is fine; the 'asking Paul Martin to make a decision' is the impossible part.
Sunday, November 13 - RIP Eddie Guerrero (1967-2005). Hope heaven is ready for some "Lyin', Cheatin,' & Stealin.'"
Monday, November 14 - As riots rock the streets, France continues to cement its reputation as a wussy country by becoming the first nation in history to surrender to itself. Ha-Ha! The only thing more fun than making fun of France is making fun of Toronto.
Tuesday, November 15 - Speaking of which, If you were part of an Alberta police force whose mandate was 'to regain the trust of the public,' would you hire a guy from Toronto? That's what I thought. At least the ethics watchdog can relax a little--the Leafs are only in town once this season.
Wednesday, November 16 - Apparently there are a lot of holes in the case against Saddam Hussein. Unfortunately, they're bullet holes, and they can be found in the torso of his defence team. He doesn't need Perry Mason. He needs 50-Cent and his bulletproof vest.
Thursday, November 17 - Has there ever been a 'Survivor' contestant more unappealing than Judd? And don't bother e-mailing me about Jonny Fairplay--At least he was interesting. If you gave me a choice between hanging out with Judd or having my brains eaten by those beetles from 'Supernatural,' I'd have to flip a coin.
Friday, November 18 - The new Harry Potter movie opens this weekend, the one where they pick his name out of the "Goblet of Fire" to do an impossible task. I don't want to give away the ending, but apparently all charges against Saddam are dropped, and the two of them fly away on Harry's magical broom.
Saturday, November 19 - O.J. Simpson says Robert Blake was a victim of injustice. Now. O.J., let's go over it one more time: Traditionally in murder cases, we reserve the term 'victim' for the dead person. There are so many punchlines here, I don't know where to begin. Too bad they're all stored behind my box of Super Nintendo cartridges in a box marked '1995.'
Sunday, November 20 - The Edmonton Eskimos teach the world a valuable lesson in cooperation and brotherhood as quarterbacks Ricky Ray and Jason Maas work together to send the Esks to the Grey Cup. If Shaq and Kobe could have done the same, the Lakers would have two more NBA titles right now.
Monday, November 21 - A woman I know on the new Parti Quebecois leader Andre Boisclair: "He looks like the bus driver for the 120 to Jasper Place. At least now I understand why the two front seats of the 7:18 are designated as 'distinct society seating.'
Tuesday, November 22 - Other Canadian celebrity lookalikes: Jason Maas...and the devil. I'm not kidding. Maybe Sean Fleming's mysterious kicking improvement over the course of the season isn't such a mystery after all.
Wednesday, November 23 - Prince Albert II ascends the throne of Monaco. Heh-heh. Prince Albert. Some days these jokes write themselves.
Thursday, November 24 – Ralph Klein is giving money away? Has he been replaced by aliens or is he just jealous that Prince Albert of Monaco has a funnier nickname than King Ralph?.
Friday, November 25 - The honeymoon is over at Edmonton Eskimos practices. Some rascal put a 'Kick Me' sign on Ricky Ray's back..and Sean Fleming put him through the uprights from forty-six yards out. Reportedly, Jason Maas laughed so hard flies came out of his mouth, but he disappeared in a flash of brimstone before reporters could get comments.
Saturday, November 26 - November 26 is Buy Nothing Day, where we refuse to indulge in our consumer culture by not spending any money, or I like to call it--Date Night.
Sunday, November 27 - The Edmonton Eskimos win the 2005 Grey Cup in overtime, capping one of the most physically gruelling seasons ever. I think I pulled a hamstring with all that jumping on and off the bandwagon.
Monday, November 28 - After the Liberals lose a non-confidence motion, the stage is set for an January vote, despite worries that "Canadians don't want another election." Yes, because Canadians have always been against democracy. Hockey games aren't decided by votes; they're decided by shoot-outs. Why should government be any different?
Tuesday, November 29 – Looks like the Black Eyed Peas have a new member—Edmonton Eskimos coach Danny Maciocia. Said Peas member Fergie: “We wanted someone with a similar dance style.”
Wednesday, November 30 - Fans everywhere are distraught over the break-up of Jessica Simpson and Nick What's-his-name. I haven't seen people this upset over a break-up since Conservative backbenchers had to retire their 'I Heart Peter and Belinda' t-shirts.
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
update
Upcoming Comedy
Wednesday, November 30 - Yuk Yuks (guest spot)
Sunday, December 11 - The Comic Strip (guest spot)
Sunday, December 18 - The Comic Strip (guest spot)
Thursday, January 5 - Yuk Yuks (middle)
-shot the photo art for my next three articles on Monday. I think we got some good stuff, especially for the Christmas shopping article on December 16th.
-My Saturday show went extremely well. Shallow person that I am, I measure a show by how many hugs I get from pretty female audience members...it was a Very Good Show. I'll be back at Yuks on Wednesday developing some new material--but don't let that stop you from coming. JOHN WING will be there, and since he doesn't come through a lot, he's worth checking out. He's a great writer and performer and I love watching. HOWIE MILLER will be MCing which is always a good time.
Wednesday, November 30 - Yuk Yuks (guest spot)
Sunday, December 11 - The Comic Strip (guest spot)
Sunday, December 18 - The Comic Strip (guest spot)
Thursday, January 5 - Yuk Yuks (middle)
-shot the photo art for my next three articles on Monday. I think we got some good stuff, especially for the Christmas shopping article on December 16th.
-My Saturday show went extremely well. Shallow person that I am, I measure a show by how many hugs I get from pretty female audience members...it was a Very Good Show. I'll be back at Yuks on Wednesday developing some new material--but don't let that stop you from coming. JOHN WING will be there, and since he doesn't come through a lot, he's worth checking out. He's a great writer and performer and I love watching. HOWIE MILLER will be MCing which is always a good time.
Saturday, November 26, 2005
Usually I use this space to shamelessly plug my writing and comedy. I'm a private person and I like to keep my personal life to myself. Having said that, one of the toughest challenges I face is the fact that my writing and comedy often forces me to dig into my insecurities and fears. Somebody once said 'happiness isn't funny.' I know for myself, my most succesful articles and jokes work because I'm letting myself be vulnerable.
Comedians, writers and show business personalities have a reputation as being troubled souls. Looking at the list of famous creative people who have struggled with depression or bipolar disorder, I guess there's some truth to that. And when you're constantly making yourself the butt of the joke, it's easy to let yourself start believing in those negative feelings that come up.
That's why those people who can keep a positive attitude are so awesome. Comics like LARS CALLIEOU and KERRY UNGER are two of my favorites for this. They recognize the place comedy has in their life, and while they love it, they also leave room for the other things that matter to them and refuse to let themselves dwell in negativity.
But here's something interesting:
For myself, I'm finding it largely a matter of attitude. One thing writing about my vulnerabilities has taught me, is that it's okay to be afraid or anxious or less-than-cool. I'm learning to accept the not-so-great parts of my personality, and weirdly enough, that makes me feel pretty good.
I like being positive. I try to make a conscious effort to focus on the good things in my life and the directions that I'm excited about exploring. But instead of trying to ignore the negative things in my life or pretend they aren't there, I'm learning to use them in a positive way--namely, making Mrs. Brodribb's handsome son rich and famous. Or at least moderately well-off and vaguely recognizable.
I've got a show tonight to get ready for. Hope to see you there (I knew I could get a plug in, if I just tried).
Dan
Comedians, writers and show business personalities have a reputation as being troubled souls. Looking at the list of famous creative people who have struggled with depression or bipolar disorder, I guess there's some truth to that. And when you're constantly making yourself the butt of the joke, it's easy to let yourself start believing in those negative feelings that come up.
That's why those people who can keep a positive attitude are so awesome. Comics like LARS CALLIEOU and KERRY UNGER are two of my favorites for this. They recognize the place comedy has in their life, and while they love it, they also leave room for the other things that matter to them and refuse to let themselves dwell in negativity.
But here's something interesting:
For myself, I'm finding it largely a matter of attitude. One thing writing about my vulnerabilities has taught me, is that it's okay to be afraid or anxious or less-than-cool. I'm learning to accept the not-so-great parts of my personality, and weirdly enough, that makes me feel pretty good.
I like being positive. I try to make a conscious effort to focus on the good things in my life and the directions that I'm excited about exploring. But instead of trying to ignore the negative things in my life or pretend they aren't there, I'm learning to use them in a positive way--namely, making Mrs. Brodribb's handsome son rich and famous. Or at least moderately well-off and vaguely recognizable.
I've got a show tonight to get ready for. Hope to see you there (I knew I could get a plug in, if I just tried).
Dan
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