The city is gearing up for its first open mic stand-up comedy show-FemaPalooza, organised by the Comedy Ladder. Hosted by Jeeya Sethi, a stand-up comedian herself, the show is meant exclusively for women, where no men will be allowed, either as a participant or an audience.
“We have done this show across the country including Delhi, Chandigarh, Mumbai and Bangalore, but this will be our first show in Kolkata,” says Jeeya, who has been doing stand-up comedy for the past five years.
Anyone who can write a three- minute script and crack funny jokes on stage can participate. “But one needs to write and rehearse their jokes before they can take it on stage. For a newcomer, it takes 25 to 30 open mics before doing a stand up” informs Jeeya.
“Previously we used to allow men into the open mic session too. But I feel, more women should participate in stand-up comedy shows, hence this exclusive platform to showcase their skills,” quips Jeeya.
“The whole purpose is to allow women to have fun. Once I saw an 80-year old woman enjoying herself along with 50 other young women screaming and cheering for a comnedian,” she says excitedly.
So, what’s her formula for being funny, we ask. “I make fun of myself and do it brilliantly. You should be able to handle crises with humour. There is nothing you can’t joke about,” she reflects.
FemaPalooza will take place at Club Boudoir, at Shakespeare Sarani on January 20.
Tickets at Rs 350