Comic Disapproves of Reading Notes Onstage.

Baltimore comedian Tom Myers has written a very important editorial for Punchline Magazine about something that is tearing at the core of the stand-up comedy artform: reading from your notes.

Really, Tom? Why is this an important issue?

In order to make it to the top, it is beneficial for every comedian to follow this piece of advice that I am offering. It is something that can help all comedians and is the reason why I have invested so much time and energy into writing this piece.

Yep. This is what comedians need to do to make it. In fact, just a week and a half ago I saw Marc Maron start his set with about 15 minutes of reading and commenting on his notes. It was hilarious. But you're telling me it could have been better? I'll be sure to forward your editorial to him so that he can benefit from your advice.

If patrons had attended a showing of Hamlet where Sir John Gielgud read off of his script for the duration of the performance, then the audience collectively would have (rightfully so) walked out and demanded their money back. This principle should apply to professional comedy shows as well as showcases. The comedian should be able to commit certain concepts to memory, with limited chances to be prompted.

If patrons had attended a Kentucky Derby where the Thoroughbreds all wandered around the track aimlessly, I'm sure the audience would angrily sashay out of Churchill Downs and demand their money back. This principle should apply to Andy Kindler's act. He should run as fast as he can in a circle.

I often use a cheat sheet, which contains a list of my newest bits that are more than likely not yet planted into my memory.

Seriously? You use a cheat sheet? There's nothing wrong with that I guess. But what's more important to you? Would you rather people remember your shows saying "that was so hilarious" or "that was so well memorized"?

…this technique can be helpful because it does not create an awkward sense in the audience because they are witnessing this performer that they have paid money to see literally reading off a sheet of paper and not paying attention to them.

They paid money to be entertained. Not to be tricked into thinking you studied carefully for the test.

The newer comics figure if a comedy great like Mitch Hedberg did it, then they can get away with it, as well. The difference between the two is that Mitch Hedberg could get laughs and be funny.

So as long as they're doing well on stage, note or no notes really doesn't matter? As long as a comedian is funny, they can completely ignore your advice? I think many of them will.