Heckling has long been a part of live comedy, adding an unpredictable element that can enhance or derail a performance. While some audience members see it as a playful interaction, others find it disruptive. Nine out of ten hecklers believe they are contributing to the fun or seeking acknowledgment. However, since the return of live performances post-COVID lockdowns, comedians have noticed audiences becoming more "feral" and influenced by social media's heightened interactions. This shift has sparked discussions about the boundaries of heckling, especially following notable incidents like Peter Kay's decision to eject two hecklers from his Manchester Arena show.
Experienced comedians develop strategies to handle hecklers, often viewing these interactions as opportunities to gauge audience reactions and adjust their material. Some comedians embrace heckling as a challenge, while others see it as a nuisance. Arena shows pose additional challenges for stand-ups due to the larger audience and potential distractions.
Peter Kay's action in Manchester has ignited debate over the acceptability of heckling. Larry Dean, a Scottish comedian, recounts his own experiences with hecklers, labeling one incident as "the most brutal heckle ever." Dean notes that smaller venues might encourage more heckling as audiences feel more comfortable. He emphasizes the difficulty comedians face when dealing with disruptive audience members.
"It's a really hard thing to do because no one wants to see a comic go serious; you feel like a teacher sometimes." – Larry Dean
Dean acknowledges that while some hecklers disrupt the show for attention, others engage positively. He appreciates when audience members contribute constructively to the performance.
"I've had hecklers who have interrupted multiple times but if they're engaging, joining in with what you're saying and being positive, I don't mind that, it's quite fun." – Larry Dean
In contrast, Dean believes that those who derail performances for self-gratification should be shown the exit.
"If they're just derailing the gig because they like the sound of their own voice, then I think you should just chuck them out!" – Larry Dean
Heckling can sometimes take bizarre forms, with random phrases like "Garlic bread" being shouted out during performances without context. Such interruptions test a comedian's ability to maintain composure and control the room.
Larry Dean reflects on high-profile interruptions in comedy history, noting that even significant incidents pale in comparison to some of his personal experiences.
"Looking at it, perspective-wise, Chris Rock [who was slapped on stage at the Oscars by Will Smith] and Peter Kay – who have the two most famous show interruptions from the past few years – they've had it easy!" – Larry Dean
Dealing with persistent hecklers requires a strategic approach. Dean once chose to ignore a particularly disruptive heckle rather than engage with it.
"I just had to ignore it," – Larry Dean
Heckling is deeply rooted in human psychology, according to Dean.
"I think it's something within people; we like a bit of drama." – Larry Dean
Welsh comic Paul Hilleard echoes the sentiment that heckling is an inherent part of the comedy experience.
"Heckling is just part of the game; it's not fun… but it can be," – Paul Hilleard
Hilleard emphasizes the importance of adapting to the room's energy and maintaining control over an often intoxicated audience.
"I've always been taught you've got to play the room. If it's chaotic, it doesn't matter if you've written the best 20 minutes ever; you've got to control that room of people who are intoxicated and show them that you're funnier." – Paul Hilleard
Yet not all subjects are open to jokes or comebacks. Dean expresses restraint in addressing sensitive topics during performances.
"Obviously I'm not gonna make fun of that," – Larry Dean
Audience reactions can vary widely, with some choosing to leave if they perceive a performance as unfunny or offensive.
"We're not laughing," she added, "so I've said to my pal we're going to leave." – (no attribution)
Abi Clarke, a British comedian, suggests that most comedians would sympathize with Kay's stance but also recognizes the complexity of audience interactions.
"It will be a better show if they get to perform it how it's meant to be performed." – Abi Clarke
Clarke believes that while there is a time and place for heckling, attending a headline show is not one of them.
James Acaster, another British comedian, has taken a unique approach by releasing a special titled "Hecklers Welcome." This project represents Acaster's effort to confront his fear of heckling head-on.
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