Trains, Planes and Automobiles… Almost
Okay, no trains—but my latest American Cruise Lines gig involved a C&J bus, a high-speed ferry, and two Ubers in two days. It was an adventure.
One of the things you need to do when traveling to your next gig—and it’s not always my strong suit—is plan exactly what you’re going to pack and carry.
My mission was to meet the American Cruise Lines catamaran American Glory at Fan Pier Marina in Boston by 2 p.m. Because it was a holiday weekend, I left New Hampshire at 8 a.m. for what would normally be about a 50-mile trip. Better to be ridiculously early than to miss the boat—especially when your job is on it.
I ditched the backpack and brought a roller bag and a garment bag for my suit. American Cruise Lines has a high-end clientele paying a premium for the best of everything, so performing in a tank top was not part of the plan.
Not that I own a tank top.
The journey involved taking the C&J bus into Boston and then an Uber to Fan Pier. I made it to the American Glory with time to spare, got settled, and prepared for the show.
Performing aboard the American Glory was a blast. The passengers were ready to laugh, and working a smaller, more intimate room gave me plenty of opportunities for the clean crowd work I love. No two audiences are ever the same, which means no two shows are ever the same.
After the performance and an overnight aboard the ship, the travel adventure continued. I returned by high-speed ferry, took another Uber, and eventually reunited with my car. In two days, I had traveled by bus, boat, ferry, and Uber—all to tell jokes.
Comedy may look easy when you see someone standing onstage holding a microphone. Getting the comedian to the microphone can be the real adventure.
LEARN STAND-UP COMEDY AT McCUE’S
Have you ever wanted to try stand-up comedy—or become more confident and comfortable onstage?
Registration is open for my six-week stand-up comedy class at McCue’s Comedy Club in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. We’ll work on developing material, finding your comic voice, stage presence, delivery, crowd work, and putting together a strong set.
The class is designed for beginners as well as performers who want to sharpen their skills. Students will also have the opportunity to learn from a surprise guest and put what they’ve learned into practice.
Learn more and reserve your place:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1999139421826
UPCOMING SHOW: COMEDY & CABERNET
Join me Saturday, September 12, for a great night of stand-up comedy at City Winery Boston. Come early, enjoy dinner and drinks, and stay for the laughs!
Get tickets:
https://tickets.citywinery.com/event/city-winery-and-boston-comedy-festival-present-c-mkg0l9
Thanks for following along. I’ll see you on the road—or, if all goes according to plan, onstage.
Jim McCue
JimMcCue.com
