Meet our newest contributing writer Michelle Lynn, a Boston comedian-writer who penned our latest “Comic Spotlight” on Tommy Savitt. Lynn chatted with STAGE TIME about her first feature and appreciation of the Boston comedy veterans who have nurtured her budding comedy career.
What was your experience interviewing Tommy Savitt?
Interviewing Tommy was wonderful. He and I have known each other for a while and often find ourselves in the midst of a really terrific conversation. And, no matter what we talk about, it’s always a joy. Along with his enormous talent comes a humility and Zen-like quality that’s very much… Tommy. He’s very honest, and is always a fountain of really good advice.
One of the best things I’ve learned from him is to always have a passion for what you’re doing. Work hard, play hard, and to remember every show is a dance between you and the audience. Take the lead and make sure they have a really good time.
When did you fall in love with stand up?
I fell in love with stand up when I was a kid. I can remember asking for the VHS tape of the most recent Comic Relief. (I don’t remember the year) But it featured Paul Rodriguez, George Carlin, Joan Rivers and so many other incredible comics. I would pop in the tape, sit on the floor and play Tetris…laughing like a banshee the whole time. And I quickly became aware of how much better I felt after I laughed for a while. It became an addiction.
Name someone or something that made you laugh recently.
I try to find the humor in everything. Jim McCue and Joey Carroll had me laughing like a freak the other morning during their radio show. To watch them on stage is a blast. They’re both incredible. But a full hour of them talking to people and just being off the cuff is a real treat. It’s the simplest and more pure form of comedy.
What stand-up comedy special, recording or live performance affected you the most?
Joey invited me to see his show a couple of years ago that was phenomenal! There were three other headlining comics performing that night: Frank Santorelli (Georgie from the Sopranos), Jack Lynch and Ira Proctor. It was like a feeding frenzy. The audience was amazing, which lit a fire inside everyone who hit the stage that night. That night inspired me to make the call and do my first show. That show was a gift and I am forever grateful.
Who are some of the comedians (local and national) that you enjoy?
Everyone I mentioned above. Locally, Jim McCue, Paul D’Angelo, Robbie Prince, Tommy Savitt and many more. Nationally, Lewis Black. He’s the only man who can say, “Moo Cow, ‘F’ Milk” and it make perfect sense. George Carlin, The Blue Collar guys, Chris Rock, Jim Norton and Rita Rudner. I just love comedy. Whether it’s clean or raunchy, I’m all for it.
