Today's Specials

What’s the deal with stand-up comedy specials these days? Turns out making one is no joke.

a long talk The Man Behind Netflix Comedy’s Curtain Robbie Praw explains his approach to buying stand-up specials for the streamer. By Jesse David Fox
beginning times fun The Special Special Stand-up isn’t just getting prettier onscreen. It’s growing up as a distinct art form. By Jesse David Fox
decisions decisions Everything to Consider When Making a Comedy Special Special Aside from what jokes to tell. By Kathryn VanArendonk

priced out

What 9 Comedians Would Produce With a Marvel-Size Budget

We gave them hundreds of millions of imaginary dollars to pitch the comedy special of their dreams. By Nayomi Reghay

survey says

What Do Comedians Think of (the Non-Joke Parts of) Stand-up Specials?

Here are insights from 39 of them. By Hershal Pandya

lights cameras jokes

Meet the Technical Artists Behind Comedy’s Most Impressive Specials

“Of the many mediums I work on — TV, film, and commercials — making a live comedy special is hardest of all.” By Hershal Pandya

memories

I Sat Front Row at Maria Bamford’s Comedy-Special Experiment

2012’s The Special Special Special! remains a source of inspiration for comedians. Here’s what it was like to be there on the couch next to her. By Wayne Federman

vulture furniture

The 100 Greatest Stools in Stand-Up Special History

Shining the spotlight on comedy’s most underrated co-stars. By Rebecca Alter

memories I Sat Front Row at Maria Bamford’s Comedy-Special Experiment 2012’s The Special Special Special! remains a source of inspiration for comedians. Here’s what it was like to be there on the couch next to her. By Wayne Federman
follow friday Michael Bonfiglio Wants to Tell You a Story We chatted with the director about the art of the stand-up comedy special — and, naturally, hummingbirds. By Taylor Garron

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