This episode of the podcast addresses the subject of comedy and stand-up, where Ahmed Attar hosts a group of comedians who share their experiences and opinions about this field. The discussion touches upon the challenges faced by comedians in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and how the market has started to evolve with an increasing demand for the art of comedy. The guests express their personal experiences, starting from their beginnings in comedy to how they utilized new techniques like Zoom during the COVID-19 pandemic to present their shows. They also discuss the numbers and profits that can be achieved in this field, giving listeners an insight into the economic aspects of this profession.
The positivity is evident in their conversation, as they share stories of success and failure, serving as a source of inspiration for anyone looking to enter the world of comedy. The importance of skill development and continuous learning for achieving success is also emphasized. The dialogue reflects a sense of humor and warmth, making it easy for listeners to enjoy and benefit from the experience.
Learning and Language Experience in Education
The discussions touch on the importance of education and how different languages are handled in schools. Students often face challenges when asked to speak a certain language, such as English, leading to feelings of frustration. In these contexts, a British student’s experience is cited, where he was encouraged to speak English in school, while he wished to speak Arabic. This approach in education reflects a certain culture that can influence how students interact with their native languages.
Additionally, the discussions highlight how education can be a place for cultural and idea exchange, as students’ minds are nourished with stories of jinn and myths. This type of content can enhance creativity and critical thinking, giving students opportunities to express themselves through writing or the arts. In the end, education is not just about transferring information, but also about shaping the student’s personality and preparing them to face life’s challenges.
Stand-Up Comedy as a Profession
The discussion addresses the issue of comedy, specifically stand-up comedy as a professional field. Participants argue that comedy can be considered a real profession, not just a hobby. One speaker illustrates how his experience in this field began, and how he transitioned from his traditional job into the world of comedy, emphasizing that comedy became his primary source of income.
The financial aspects of being a comedian are also discussed, where speakers talk about how they work at private events and public gatherings, and how success in this field requires a lot of effort and creativity. They discuss how to prepare shows and content, as well as how they interact with the audience and what skills and psychological aspects that requires.
These discussions serve as a model for how the arts evolve as an industry, as comedians can reach a broader audience through social media and various streaming platforms. This is part of the challenges and changes facing this profession in the modern era.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Comedy
The COVID-19 pandemic is considered a significant turning point for many comedians, as it led to the closure of numerous venues and places where they provided their shows. Participants talk about how the pandemic forced many to think of new ways to connect with their audience, leading to the use of platforms like Zoom to present shows. This shift to the virtual world was a challenge but also an opportunity for many to expand their audience.
The discussion also touches on how these challenges led to the innovation of new content and the development of new ways to interact with the audience. Comedy during these times struggles to maintain vitality and direct interaction, prompting many comedians to reassess their performance strategies. Through their experiences, it becomes clear that creativity can flourish even in difficult circumstances, making them more prepared to face future challenges.
Experiences
Diversity in Comedy
Participants share a variety of personal experiences, reflecting a range of backgrounds and approaches to handling comedy. Some began in this field at a young age, while others came from different areas. These discussions address how their personal experiences have influenced their comedic content and how this helps them build their identity as performers.
Moreover, dialogues highlight the importance of diversity in comedic content, where comedians draw from their cultural and social experiences to produce material that resonates with the audience. This type of comedy is seen as a way to express identity and the challenges individuals face in society. Through these experiences, comedians can use humor as a tool to direct social critique and tackle harsh issues in innovative ways.
Transitioning Between Jobs and Comedy
Discussions explore how many comedians go through various work experiences before making a professional decision to transition into comedy. Participants talk about their experiences in traditional jobs and how that helped shape their comedic personas. Here, it is shown how many comedians started as employees in different fields before finding their true passion in the world of comedy.
The psychological and social impact of this transition is also noted, as many learn how to take control of their career destinies. These experiences reflect the challenges individuals might face in pursuing their dreams, and how perseverance and talent can lead them to success in their fields. The discussion emphasizes the importance of guidance and support from friends and family in achieving professional goals, as it requires a significant amount of courage to take risks and leave job security behind.
Challenges of High School and Youth Ambitions
The high school period is considered one of the most important times in the lives of young people, where ambitions and dreams take shape, alongside the challenges students face during this stage. Many recall their worries and aspirations during that period, where some lacked a clear ambition, while others passionately sought to achieve specific goals. In the 1970s and 1980s in Mecca, there was a general feeling of uncertainty about the life path, making stepping out of the house or traveling to new places a dream for many young people.
In those days, the conversation about studying and university specializations was far from youth ambitions. Hopes were limited, and searching for a traditional job was the primary concern. However, some dreamt of studying abroad or learning a new language like English, which was considered a significant ambition at the time. These dreams represented steps away from the daily routine that many were accustomed to.
Talking about ambition also included criticisms of the social situation, as young people felt societal pressure to succeed in specific fields, such as engineering or medicine, while their options were limited. Many had no clear idea of what they wanted to achieve in the future, which caused anxiety and confusion. Sometimes, the search for simple jobs like a teacher or an employee in a certain field was all they could think of.
University Education and Its Impact on Professional Life
The transition from high school to university education is a critical turning point in the lives of many young people. University represents an opportunity to expand ideas and achieve self-realization, as students are given the chance to choose their academic specializations. However, university experiences are not always as students expect. Some face academic difficulties, while others find themselves in programs that do not align with their true interests.
Majoring in English, for example, was considered an important option, as the language opened doors to many opportunities. Learning English was not just studying a subject, but a tool for communicating with the world. However, lessons sometimes focused on theoretical aspects far removed from practical applications, leaving students questioning the usefulness of what they were learning.
People
those who chose education as their profession faced challenges in the job market, where there was an urgent need for certain levels of education and certifications. However, practical experience gained more importance over time. Occasionally, there was a disconnection between what students learned in university and the skills required by the job market. This issue represented a significant challenge, as success in a professional career requires a combination of academic knowledge and practical experience.
Work Experiences and Challenges of Professional Life
After graduating from university, young people begin to face new challenges related to the job market. Some may find good opportunities, while others suffer from unemployment or difficulty finding suitable jobs. Working in various fields like hospitality or translation can be a valuable learning experience, as individuals learn a lot about interacting with others and managing time and resources.
Sometimes, temporary or seasonal jobs may be the only available option, making it difficult to plan for the future. Professional life requires a lot of flexibility and adaptation to changing circumstances, which sometimes includes changing careers or moving to a new city in search of better opportunities. For example, working in Hajj and Umrah companies represented a unique challenge, as dealing with pilgrims requires high communication and organizational skills.
It is also important to highlight the need for continuous education and self-development. With the advancement of technology and changes in market needs, individuals must continue to learn new skills. There is an urgent need to adopt new learning methods, such as attending workshops or training courses, which can help enhance personal and professional skills. This pursuit of knowledge helps individuals adapt to changes in the job market and increase their chances of obtaining better jobs.
Dreams and Aspirations Amid Social and Cultural Changes
Dreams and aspirations change over time, especially with the social and cultural changes that affect society. In the past, goals often revolved around securing stable jobs, but over time, young people began to seek their true passions. The increasing understanding that life is not just about a job, but a collection of experiences and valuable moments, has shaped new aspirations.
In recent years, many young people have started thinking outside the box, turning towards new fields like entrepreneurship and the arts. The evolution of social media has helped foster this culture, as individuals can now share their ideas and projects more broadly. Engaging in volunteer or community activities provides an opportunity for young people to acquire new skills and expand their networks.
Thanks to technological advancements, access to knowledge sources and educational resources has become easier. Today, young people have greater opportunities to learn through the internet and online training courses, allowing them to develop their skills more quickly. These transformations open doors to new fields of aspirations, enabling individuals to achieve their dreams in innovative and unconventional ways.
Experiences of University Education
University education is one of the most important stages of life that an individual goes through, as it significantly impacts their professional and personal future. The discussion focuses on individuals’ experiences during their studies at universities, where speakers share their varying emotions during this experience. For instance, the joy felt by one student upon graduation is mentioned, and how the moment of receiving their diploma was an important event in their life. The conversation also touched on the difficulties some faced during this phase, as they spoke about transferring between different universities due to instability in choosing a major, which resulted in a loss of some time and effort.
Furthermore,
It is referred to the influence of the surrounding environment on the student’s academic achievement. While some are able to adapt and excel, others find themselves in difficult situations due to social pressures or lack of sufficient support from family. Additionally, the importance of choosing the right major is discussed, as some indicate that selecting an unsuitable major may lead to dissatisfaction in their job after graduation, making them feel as if they have wasted years of their lives on something they were not passionate about. The speakers also reflect on how some have succeeded in reaching their desired field after several experiences, highlighting the importance of perseverance and not giving up in the face of challenges.
Employment in the Age of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic had significant repercussions on all aspects of life, especially on the job market. Some participants talk about how the pandemic affected their opportunities to find work after graduation. They mention how there were obstacles preventing them from applying for jobs due to restrictions on mobility, making it difficult for them to utilize their university degrees. They also discuss the lockdown period and how many companies ceased hiring, which increased competition for available jobs after the pandemic ended.
Some participants share their experiences in job searching, explaining how the pandemic prepared them to develop new skills. For example, some began to learn digital skills that have become more sought after in the job market. Others talk about the importance of networking and building relationships, and how social networks helped them find job opportunities. The discussion also points out that despite the difficulties, the pandemic helped some to reassess their career priorities and rethink their professional paths.
Aspirations and Achieving Goals
Aspirations emerge as a key element in individuals’ lives, as participants talk about their goals and what they strive to achieve. It is mentioned how ambition can be a powerful motivator for success, but students may face significant challenges in achieving it. Some discuss their journey to achieve their professional goals, and how self-contentment played a significant role in their success. For instance, one speaker mentioned having a passion for aviation, but faced difficulties in achieving this ambition due to family pressures and expectations.
The importance of determination and not giving up is also highlighted, as some succeed in overcoming challenges to reach their dreams. Participants talk about pivotal moments in their lives that shaped their paths, and how mistakes or failures can be valuable lessons that strengthen their will. These experiences show that success is not just a collection of achievements, but also a result of life experiences and skill refinement. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of social support and backing from friends and family in the journey to achieve aspirations, and how having a strong support network can make a significant difference in an individual’s life.
Experiences in Comedy and Art
Art and comedy appear as a means of self-expression, as participants talk about their experiences in the world of comedy. The discussion addresses how comedy is not just entertainment, but an art that requires special skills and a deep understanding of the audience. The importance of practice and training in improving comedic performance is highlighted, with some affirming that success in this field comes from repetition and learning from mistakes. Some recall how their participation in comedy competitions was the beginning of a new journey for them, and how they succeeded in delivering funny performances that captivated the audience.
Speakers emphasize that comedy requires a degree of boldness and the ability to handle criticism, mentioning how receiving feedback from the audience or peers can help them improve their performance. Some discuss how comedy reflects societal issues and helps shed light on problems in a humorous way, making it an effective means of communicating with people. The conversation also covers how personal life experiences influence comedic writing, showing how everyday events can be translated into jokes that resonate with people’s hearts.
Experiences
The Personality with Hair Loss
Individuals’ experiences with hair loss significantly intersect with their daily lives, as these experiences become part of personal identity. People have different stories about how hair loss has affected them, whether through feelings of shame or the search for various solutions like shaving or using specific products. In discussions about hair loss, it is evident that some have chosen to take drastic steps, such as shaving, as a means to confront the issue directly. Individuals also talk about the psychological impact that accompanies these experiences and how some commit themselves to accept the new situation. For example, someone might feel shame at first, but they later learn how to accept themselves better over time.
Social and Cultural Influences
Experiences related to hair loss highlight the social and cultural pressures individuals face. For instance, certain beauty standards are imposed on individuals by media and society. These standards manifest in how people interact with one another based on their appearances, leading some to feel insecure or anxious. Hair is considered a symbol of femininity or masculinity in some cultures, which may pressure a person to conform to those standards. Additionally, the discussion addresses how these pressures affect individuals’ relationships with others and how they can either enhance or reduce self-confidence.
Modern Trends in Self-Care
Discussions about hair loss also reveal new trends in self-care and how individuals have become more aware of the importance of self-care. Some are drawn to modern techniques such as hair transplants or the use of dietary supplements, while others prefer natural solutions or traditional treatments. The discussion also touches on how these trends affect mental health, as the quest for beauty or a good appearance is considered part of self-care. People express a desire to improve their appearance, but they also learn the importance of self-acceptance and listening to their bodies’ needs. It is clear that society has begun to embrace more diversity in standards of beauty, granting individuals greater freedom to express themselves.
Experiences of Comedians and Actors
The conversation addresses the experiences of several comedians and actors and how hair loss has impacted their artistic careers. Some consider hair loss to have given them unique advantages in their fields, while others feel they need to adapt to these changes. The discussion on how comedians use their personal experiences in their performances shows how art can serve as an outlet for expressing emotions and struggles. Some talk about how the laughter of the audience can bring a sense of comfort and acceptance, both for themselves and for others. Ultimately, the discussion illustrates how personal challenges can inspire art and creativity.
Balancing Artistic Pursuits with Traditional Employment
Conversations touch on how to maintain a balance between an artistic career and traditional employment. Many comedians face challenges in deciding whether to fully commit to their artistic careers or continue in their regular jobs. The discussions reflect the concept of fear of losing financial security versus the dreams and passion an individual has for art. The conversation shows how some have decided to take risks and completely transition to the artistic sphere, while others prefer to continue with traditional work to ensure financial stability. The discussions highlight various contradictions regarding how to achieve a balance between passion and financial prosperity, reflecting the challenges artists face in our society today.
Learning from Difficult Experiences
Discussions also show how difficult experiences, such as hair loss or facing challenges in artistic work, can lead to valuable life lessons. Each challenge is seen as an opportunity for personal growth and development. Individuals talk about how feelings of insecurity or fear have driven them to better themselves and explore new areas. The discussions illustrate how art contributes to processing pain and suffering, and how these experiences can be transformed into a driving force for success. Personal experiences suggest that challenges are not obstacles but can be part of a profound journey leading to self-actualization.
Understanding
The Importance of Analysis and Diversity in Thinking
In the discussion, the significant importance of analysis and diversity in thinking was highlighted as an essential part of life. The existence of two types of thinking – analytical and creative – is considered crucial for achieving balance in life. Analysis helps in understanding matters logically, while creativity aids in inventing new and different ideas. This diversity in thinking is viewed as the key to success in various fields. For example, in the business sector, the ability to analyze financial data combined with a creative vision for launching a new product can lead to remarkable results. Similarly, in the arts, the combination of analytical and creative abilities can result in the production of artworks that express complex emotions clearly and appealingly.
Risks in the Entertainment World
The discussion addresses the risks associated with working in the entertainment field, and how this sector requires courage and strong will to face challenges. The comedy industry, in particular, is seen as a field that necessitates risk-taking due to the financial instability that artists may encounter. It is important for artists to have a plan to mitigate risks, such as diversifying income sources through special performances or working in art-related fields like production or writing. Many successful artists employ different strategies to expand their work, such as performing at corporate events or appearing at public engagements, helping them achieve a steady and reliable income.
Comedy as a Multidimensional Field
Comedy is considered more than just stand-up performances; it is a broad field that includes writing, acting, and content production. There was a focus in the discussion on the necessity for comedians to treat themselves as brands, as they must expand their skills to encompass various dimensions such as directing and screenwriting. This diversity in skills allows them to adapt to different market demands. For example, a comedian may develop content for television projects or films, enhancing their job opportunities and increasing their income. Furthermore, comedians can utilize social media to build a wide audience and engage with them, helping enhance their digital presence and attract new opportunities.
The Importance of Personal Branding and Relationship Building
Personal relationships in the entertainment field are vital for any artist seeking success. The discussion pointed out the importance of building a network of relationships with industry professionals, such as directors and producers, who can open doors to future opportunities. Personal branding is also essential, as artists need to have a strong presence on social media platforms, along with a website showcasing their work. This can help enhance awareness of the artist’s personal brand and increase their chances of securing new gigs. For example, a good profile supported by quality content can attract the attention of potential companies for collaboration, expanding their professional horizons.
Strategies for Achieving Financial Success in Comedy
Achieving financial success in comedy is challenging, but it is possible through well-thought-out strategies. The discussion talks about the importance of creating multiple income sources rather than relying on a single performance. Artists can earn income by delivering live performances, working on digital content, and taking advantage of promotional opportunities. Additionally, strategies may include negotiating contracts that suit their skill levels. Comedians should think about how to expand their professional portfolio by collaborating with production companies and participating in large events, thereby increasing their reach and attracting a larger audience.
The Experience of Performing Comedy on Television
Performing comedy, especially the “stand-up” style, on television is an exciting and multifaceted experience. This experience involves many challenges and opportunities that are quite different from performing in theaters or other venues. For many comedians, appearing on television is an opportunity to reach a wider audience, but this comes with greater pressure and a higher importance on delivering an exceptional performance. It requires good preparation and consideration of every detail of the show, from the scripts used to the performance style.
Some
Comedians talk about their various experiences in this context. For example, negotiating pay might be necessary, which can range from modest amounts to large figures that correspond to the artist’s fame. Sometimes, such opportunities can be available at special events or in dedicated comedy shows. One comedian shared his experience in a special show that was held for his birthday, and how this experience, while unique and somewhat strange, was financially rewarding.
Performing on television requires the ability to interact with the audience, whether live or through the screen. Comedians need to be able to read reactions and adapt to them, as audiences vary in their responses during viewing. Regarding comedy shows on television, the importance of good preparation stands out, as it requires working on new and appealing scripts suitable for all ages and cultural backgrounds.
In general, the television experience is considered an effective platform for spreading comedy, but success in it depends on the ability to manage pressure and effectively interact with the audience. Comedians who stand out in this field are those who can combine their comedic skills with the ability to capture attention and achieve effective communication with their viewers.
Pricing in the Comedy Market
Setting prices in the comedy market can be a complex process, influenced by several factors. First, the price a comedian can charge depends on their fame and previous works. Comedians with a strong track record and successful works often manage to command higher prices, as their reputation and the quality of their work are the most significant indicators. The presence of unions or professional associations can also play a role in setting prices, as these organizations may be responsible for establishing pricing standards for their members.
For example, if there is a well-known comedian in Saudi Arabia like “Ibrahim Al-Hajjar”, his pricing might be based on the number of works he has presented and their success. The figures he references in his contracts or previous performances are an important metric for determining his price. Comedians might set their prices based on their previous experiences, such as the shows they have done in the past and the demand for them.
Prices are also influenced by the target market. If shows are targeting large corporations or private events, prices may rise significantly. Comedians should be prepared to negotiate their prices, especially when dealing with organizations or companies seeking to provide professional performances.
There is also another aspect that requires attention, which is personal marketing. When a comedian gains fame on social media platforms like Instagram or YouTube, they build a larger fan base, which contributes to increased demand for them, consequently raising their prices. The aim of these strategies is to build a strong reputation in the market, ensuring that performing artists continue to achieve sustainable income.
Language and Communication Challenges in Comedy Shows
Comedians face significant challenges related to language and communication, especially if they perform in a language other than their mother tongue. For instance, when one comedian discusses his experience delivering performances in English, communication difficulties with the audience emerge. It is essential to understand the cultural and humorous traditions associated with the target language, as phrases or jokes that may be funny in one culture might not be in another.
Additional effort may also be required to improve language skills, causing comedians to feel pressure. When it comes to performance, the comedian must be able to improvise and interact dynamically with the audience, which requires a high level of fluency and confidence. They also need to develop a unique style that captivates the audience’s attention and distinguishes them from other comedians.
Social experiments and interaction with different cultures are part of a comedian’s journey, as they learn through practice and interaction. These experiences are seen as opportunities to hone their skills and improve their ability to communicate with a diverse audience. For example, interactions with English-speaking communities contribute to enhancing the ability to perform and understand the nuances of humor.
It is also worth noting the importance of peer support and artistic communities in this context. Many comedians share their experiences and skills with each other, facilitating learning and growth in this field. These networks can be very helpful in overcoming the challenges associated with delivering comedy performances, especially in multicultural environments.
Investing Money and Securing the Future for Artists
Money management and investment are key topics that comedians should seriously consider. The income of artists, especially comedians, can be volatile and unstable at times. Therefore, it is important for them to have a clear financial plan that helps secure their future. Many comedians talk about the importance of investing the money they earn from performances, whether in business ventures or in developing their skills.
Although some artists may achieve significant financial success, they need to invest this money wisely. It is important for the artist to be able to adapt to market changes and trends. For example, investments in education or skill development can be vital, as they allow artists to broaden their horizons and increase their job opportunities. They should also consider taking steps toward establishing their own business activities, such as producing shows or creating independent content.
Good financial planning can also help face tough times, such as recessions or economic crises. Having a financial reserve can alleviate financial pressures and help artists get through tough times. Investing in assets like real estate or stocks is part of the strategies that can enhance financial stability.
In the end, comedians need to think strategically about how to manage their money and ensure the sustainability of their income in the long term. Planning and investment thinking can contribute to achieving sustainable success in this field.
Stand-Up Arts: Audience Feedback and Its Impact on Performance
Audience feedback is a critical element in stand-up arts. Artists heavily rely on audience interaction to assess their performance. When comedians present their acts, they seek to create an interactive environment where the audience can engage directly with the experience. Immediate feedback from the audience, whether it’s laughter, applause, or even boos, provides comedians with real indicators of how well they are delivering their message. For instance, in trial shows or “open mics,” the challenge lies in gauging audience reactions and responding to them, helping comedians adjust their content and styles according to the feedback they receive. These performances are an attempt to test new content and serve as an ideal platform for understanding how the audience reacts to jokes or presented topics.
Addiction to Comedy: Personal and Professional Effects
Addiction to comedy is one of the intriguing topics in this field. Once an artist begins performing shows, they may feel the pressure of continuous creativity. This pressure can lead to excessive immersion in work, affecting their personal life and relationships. Some comedians express this addiction as a source of comfort, finding that by turning their negative experiences into jokes, they can better cope with their emotions. One comedian noted how turning problems into comedic material can become a coping mechanism. Instead of facing issues directly, some artists resort to using comedy as a means of escaping reality, which can have both positive and negative effects.
Charisma
The Impact of Charisma on Comedy Performance
Charisma plays a key role in the success of comedians on stage. A comedian may have the best jokes, but if they lack charisma, the impact may not be the same. Charisma relates to a person’s appeal and their ability to attract the audience’s attention. Artists like Talal and GoGo, who possess a strong presence and communication skills, achieve great success, even when presenting unconventional content. Charisma is an element that cannot be overlooked, as it enhances the artist’s chances of attracting the audience and keeping them engaged. Charisma can also include how jokes are delivered, tone of voice, and body language. A strong presence can enable the audience to engage better with the content and enhance overall interaction during the show.
Active Participation in Comedy Events: The Importance of Live Experience
Comedy events are an ideal platform for direct interaction between comedians and the audience. This experience builds a bridge for communication, as comedians can test their content and see immediate feedback. These experiences play a pivotal role in the development of comedians’ skills. For example, by participating in shows or events, comedians can learn how to read the audience and adjust their performance according to the response. This experience requires a significant amount of courage, as standing in front of an audience and presenting new material is a risky endeavor. However, the more experience one gains, the better their adaptability and performance improvement.
Evaluation and Criticism: How It Affects Comedians’ Careers
Evaluations and criticisms are an integral part of any comedian’s career. Both the audience and critics can significantly influence an artist’s path. Constructive criticism can be a motivation for development and improvement, while negative criticism may adversely affect the artist’s self-confidence and boldness. It is crucial for comedians to learn how to handle criticism positively and use it as an opportunity for learning and growth. Some artists prefer to receive immediate feedback from the audience, while others may need time to reflect before assessing their performance. This dynamic is part of professional and personal growth in the world of comedy, where comedians strive to enhance their skills and stay ahead of the competition.
The episode was summarized using artificial intelligence ezycontent
Leave a Reply