Comedy is not for everyone. So I truly applaud those who can take their everyday funny to a stage near or far with a packaged performance of wit, offense, defense, observation, and, of course, hilarity.
That takes a form of guts. Trust, it’s not a space for one who softly wears their heart on their shoulder or even back pocket. It can be harsh and slap you in the face with no remorse while at the same time crack you up with political and educated observations.
The success scheme to stand-up comedy and improvisational comedy is timing. Any comic will share that with you. The set-up, climax, and the punch line are imperative and if done in the wrong timing, it can ruin the entire presentation. The delivery is supposed to build and intensify with an end result of reason and laughter.
Bottom line: Comedy is no place for suckas.
As a writer and media person, we get hit with thousands of pitches and each one expresses why they are the best and the reasons they deserve a feature, interview, etc… not mad at that, however, you have to understand that because my emails are bombarded with this stuff, I receive everything with a squinted or side-eye.
Nothing personal loves.
I am not a critic. But as a definite lover of laughter, I gravitate to funny, punch lines, and slick talk.
So, let me introduce you all to the Freshmen Comedy Troupe, a vibrant crew that aims to tackle the funny in everyday life. From street humor, social commentary and even an intellectual approach to the chaotic world of politics, this group is quite refreshing.
The creative group of five consists of Chris Redd, Mikki Monro, Brittany Baker, Aaron “Chucho” Pérez, and Trey Brazier. The troupe met while taking classes at Second City Chicago and crossing paths while in their various arts mediums.
Monro is also a model; Redd is also a freelance writer and stand-up comedian; Baker has a background in dance; Brazier a.k.a. “Trey the Choklit Jock’ is an on-air radio host; and Pérez also does stand-up.
Combining their talents of acting and improvisation, since forming in 2009, the troupe aims to provide a more diverse, minority improv group that both the community and the comedy world can relate to.
Together they have opened shows for acts such as fellow-Chicagoan Damon Williams, B.Cole, Marlon Mitchell, and Pimprov.
Currently, the troupe is hosting 2nd Sundays at the iconic Jokes & Notes Lounge in Bronzeville, located on 47th and King Drive.
Audience participation plays a heavy role in the team delivering good material. They work off the crowd while creating dialogue that forces and challenges them to think quick and out the box. So, you really never know which way a joke, or a scene will go.
The Freshmen Troupe has a good time on stage leaving room for you to do just the same!
Get a Peek of the comedians at work: www.youtube.com/thecorecomedy www.thefreshmencomedy.com
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