Bangalore-based comedian /radio host/ emcee/actor Danish Sait has only entertained with each of his outings - be it his beloved Soundcloud channel hosting hysterical prank calls (which has generated more than 32 million plays), his improv sessions, or his political satire Humble Politician Nograj. The talented talker completes a decade in radio this year, and is a thriving name in stand-up comedy circuits.
With improvisational comedy gaining more and more relevance in the country, it’s time to delve deep into the labyrinths of improv culture. How organic is the perfect moment in improv comedy? And how does the mind of an improv artiste really work?
We caught up with Sait when he was in town recently to perform at the Black Dog Easy Evenings, alongside names like Kaneez Surka, Biswa Kalyan Rath, Cyrus Sahukar, Aadar Malik and Prashasti Singh. Excerpts:
Tell us a little about how you got your start with comedy
I spent a massive part of my childhood in a boarding school, humour was the fastest way to break ice and make new friends. My mum tells me I was pretty funny as a child too. Time, age and confidence turned this into a profession. I also complete a decade in radio this year.
What do you enjoy the most about improv?
Improv is a free-flowing art form. It’s in the moment, you have got to accept, focus on taking the scene forward, you have to trust your partner. Individuals don’t win, scenes do. I like the synergy and suspense, when a scene works, the audience and us on stage, feel really happy!
Tell us a little about your performance in Kolkata. What did you think about the city's audiences?
I’ve visited Kolkata with Black Dog Easy Evenings earlier this year, I love the audience in Kolkata. They’re intelligent and truly know how to take a pause and be in the moment.
You've performed all across the country. Which city do you think has the best sense of humour?
I love Bengaluru. It’s a great mix. It’s super cosmopolitan. It’s my home, the city took to me and my humour sooner than everybody else around the country. I’m very grateful to the people for identifying and supporting my talent.
What's the one thing aspiring improv artistes should always know?
Information is Key. Reading, watching and listening is important. You don’t know what you’re going to be hit with while you’re on stage. Information + the basic science of improv will make a scene work. Also, focus on the scene ... not on individual glory.
Can you tell us about what you're working on now?
I start shooting for the 1st season of Humble Politician Nograj with Applause entertainment. This is my baby, it was earlier a film, we decided to make the sequel as a series. I also have a regional film releasing in 2020. I’ll be covering the World Cup in Australia later in the year. Good times :)
Do you enjoy the Indian stand-up comedy scene as a performer?
I do. It’s given me my identity. I’ll always be grateful to the audiences who’ve been so supportive.