Would it be fall at Bay Street Theater without a stellar comedy lineup? This past weekend Sag Harbor’s Bay Street Theater hosted comedy events showcasing veteran comedians alongside up-and-coming comics.
Last Saturday’s 8pm show was a hilariously unforgettable evening with nationally acclaimed comedian Marion Grodin and veteran comedian Greg Stone and the up-and-coming Sam Evans.
The All Star Comedy series is an audience favorite and has appeared at Bay Street for 13 seasons. Since its inception, the series has been headlined by stand-up veterans and fresh faces alike, growing to become the East End’s premiere live comedy series.
Hamptons.com spoke with comedian Marion Grodin about comedy and the Hamptons.
How did you get started in comedy?
I got started in stand-up comedy after being a comedy writer for a while and deciding that I wanted to say the funny things I was writing for other people. I started at what are called “bring shows”– where you had to bring people in order to get on stage. Luckily, I don’t have to do that anymore!
Do you have a pre-show ritual?
I do have a pre-show ritual. I usually say the Serenity prayer so that I can get out of my own way on stage and just let it happen.
In your opinion, what makes a standup event special?
I feel like all events are actually pretty special. If the audience is really up for the show and I’m really on, it all just comes together beautifully!
Did you do any Zoom stand-up during the pandemic?
I did do zoom shows during the pandemic. I hated it because what really makes a show phenomenal is the energy and you can’t get the same energy if it’s not live.
Have you spent much time in the Hamptons? Do you feel like people here are able to laugh at themselves? How do you decide if you should make a local joke?
I have spent a lot of time in the Hamptons. My mother used to have a house in Sag Harbor, so it is really special for me to do shows at Bay Street Theater! I think people in the Hamptons are definitely able to laugh at themselves. That makes for such a good show! I usually will do local jokes since the audience can most appreciate something that is familiar to them!
For more info, visit www.BayStreet.org
