Website design By BotEap.comDelivery is probably the most overlooked aspect of stand-up comedy. It has to do with the way you deliver your jokes. This could mean inflections, volume of voice, type of emotional support, physical movement, and/or the use of props or musical instruments.

Website design By BotEap.comAs an indicator of how important it is, imagine how effective Sam Kinison’s act would have been had he delivered his material in a lower key. Or watch Mitch Hedberg’s act. His writing was undeniably brilliant. However, much of his appeal came from his Dylanesque voice inflections. Imagine how effective his jokes would have been if they had been delivered in Joan River’s voice?

Website design By BotEap.comDespite the importance of delivery, it is a difficult aspect to develop. Because any delivery or style that doesn’t seem like a natural extension of yourself will come across as hopelessly artificial.

Website design By BotEap.comLike comedy itself, there is no right or wrong way to deliver the material. If there was, Jeremy Hotz would have been kicked out of comedy many years ago because of his unorthodox style. He goes against all convention, standing at the back of the stage and often covering his mouth with his hand while he tells the jokes about him. However, he works. His delivery fits his personality on stage and has become a trademark of his act.

Website design By BotEap.comGoing back to Mitch Hedberg, he would sometimes perform an entire performance with his eyes closed. The crowd didn’t care. They accepted it as part of his personality (he drove comedy club owners crazy because he couldn’t see the light on when he got off stage). Todd Berry delivers all of his material in a slow, barely audible voice. Lewis Black’s trademark is spasms of rage. Steven Wright employs a deadpan style (a style that came naturally to him as a result of intense stage shyness). And Chris Rock combines unique inflections with a unique-sounding voice, as he always belies the anger at his jokes with a star-studded grin.

Website design By BotEap.comOften, it’s the delivery that becomes more of a comedian’s trademark than the material itself.

Website design By BotEap.comHow to try to develop a release

Website design By BotEap.comThe time to experiment is when you are just starting out in the business. During the first few months, be open to trying different styles of delivery.

Website design By BotEap.comTry an ensemble by telling your jokes using a deadpan delivery. Next, try telling your jokes in a more lively tone. Then, the next time you go out, try to slow down and speak almost in a whisper. Keep experimenting for several weeks as you incorporate different emotions. And when doing so, be sure to use the same song list. In this way, you can properly assess how different delivery styles can alter the strength of a joke and an entire ensemble.

Website design By BotEap.comOver time, you’ll learn which style works best for you, and ultimately which style you’re most comfortable delivering with. Just make sure it’s you and not some contrived comedy stunt.