This Thursday, April 7th, comedian Chris Duffy will be delivering a lecture at Vassar about the processes of producing a comedy show on public radio, delving into the details of what it’s like to record live.
Duffy is the creator and host of “You’re the Expert,” a radio show that features several comedians who participate in guessing games and sketches in an attempt to predict the special guest’s area of expertise. The show ends with an interview with the expert about their field of study, creating a show that “is funny, it’s interactive, and you end up actually learning something,” as described on the program’s website.
Many episodes can be found on the “You’re the Expert” website, but can also be found on SoundCloud, iTunes, and Stitcher.
Duffy’s other show, “You Get A Spoon,” is a live performance best described by Duffy himself: “You Get A Spoon is a night of my favorite performers sharing their work and the things they love. Each artist performs a set. Then they enthusiastically endorse a prize that they love and give it away to audience members. It’s an Oprah-style audience giveaway! Previous audience members have taken home candy bars, books, magazine subscriptions, kitchen appliances, CDs, and gaff tape. Every show, one lucky audience member receives a Tovolo mixing spoon (the greatest spoon in the universe). I guarantee it is the most positive way to spend an evening.”
Duffy recently had a show in New York City in March, but you’ll have to check out his site to stay up-to-date on his next performance of “You Get A Spoon”.
“An Hour Abroad” is a monthly feature of Duffy’s that seeks to provide listeners with an immersive cultural experience “all in less time than it takes to roast a turkey,” and often features celebrity guests!
Food Fanatic? Duffy has a show for you, too. “Taste Test” is “a nationally touring comedy show that starts with local food vendors giving out free samples. I share stories and jokes about food, and invite professional chefs and audience members on stage to join in interactive games and challenges for a fantastic night of ‘small bites and big laughs.'”
Duffy clearly is very experienced in audio recording, and has successfully taken several approaches to comedy through the medium of radio. His lecture is sure to be informative and intriguing, but will probably have some humor sprinkled throughout as well. To learn more about the talk, please see the event poster below!
