Comedian and professor Wayne Federman has spent his life studying the art and history of standup comedy. Join him and fellow student, Andrew Steven, as they look back at some of standup’s most interesting moments, places, and people.
Listen to The History of Stand-Up on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
The History of Stand-Up:
From Mark Twain to Dave Chappelle
Today’s top stand-up comedians sell out arenas, generate millions of dollars, tour the world, and help shape our social discourse. So, how did this all happen? The History of Stand-Up chronicles the evolution of this American art form – from its earliest pre-vaudeville practitioners like Artemus Ward and Mark Twain to present-day comedians of HBO and Netflix.
“The History of Stand-Up” is a fantastic book. A great read.
— Jimmy Fallon
If you're interested in stand-up history, this is the book.
— Judd Apatow
Season 1
Season 1 Trailer
Ep. 01: In One, Television, and the Birth of Standup
Ep. 02: Records and Clubs
Ep. 03: Carson, SNL, and HBO
Ep. 04: The 1980’s Comedy Boom
Ep. 05: Alt Comedy and Def Comedy
Ep. 06: Boom 2.0
Live with Demetri Martin and Ian Abramson (Bonus Episode)
Jimmy Pardo and the History of Comedy Podcasts (Bonus Episode)
Judd Apatow meets Totie Fields (Bonus Episode)
Season 2
Season 2 Trailer
S2 Ep. 01: Holy City Zoo
S2 Ep. 02: The Playboy Circut
S2 Ep. 03: The Apollo and The Chitlin' Circuit
S2 Ep. 04: The Academy Awards
S2 Ep. 05: Broadway
S2 Ep. 06: Meltdown
S2 Ep. 07: Lyons Den and The Lincoln Lodge
Scenes and Venues (Bonus Episode)
“Comedian Wayne Federman has made it his business to know his business. Now, with the help of podcaster and comedy fan Andrew Steven, Federman is imparting his comic knowledge…”
— Vulture
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