Footlights: the Joy of Being a Stand Up Comedian

Footlights:The Joy of Being a Stand Up Comedian           The audience is getting their drinks, And a silent hush falls, like a wave,on the crowd. I know it's my moment to rise and shine, Standing alone, facing a crowd, albeit totally unknown. It's the most frightening moment of my life, as perspiration runs down my back. How can I make others laugh? But it's quite easy you see,  I simply was taught to just be me, With no jokes,and no corny lines to crack. The audience and I, in close relationship. Was the sweetest, biggest treat for me. The short time passed oh, too quickly. A magical kinship so very sweet, That no heckler ever did I ever meet! Comedy in the 70's was based on humor. Not political destruction, nor filled with obscenities we drown in today. It was a total rush, for me! Always with my heart pounding, before they announced simply, me. Afterwards, people asking for my autograph, How sweet is that, I thought! And the best part, ever? Saying they would love to have a friend Like me in their lives, forever. Doing comedy, yes, a rush divinely complete! Panagiota Romios 4/11/2019 Entry: My Amphetamine Contest            Anthony Slausin Credits to my comedic mentors: Tom Dreisen and Tim Reid (the first and last interracial comedy team.) Plus the teachers and cast members at Second City Theatre,  Chicago, Illinois