You can laugh at just about anything (well, almost...)

Presenter: Yong Wai Sing

Reviewed by Thaddeus Lawrence

In the midst of all the doom and gloom surrounding global economic markets, one would say it is about high time we all had a good laugh.

This came by way of a Humour Night in our July meeting. We were privileged to have Yong Wai Sing entertain us with his brand of humour. In between having us in stitches, Wai Sing also answered some of our questions pertaining to the relevance of humour in speaking. The key points he covered were:

1. Structuring the creative process
   Where does a comedian get his material? How does a speaker keep his content fresh? The secret is to write it all down. Always have a notepad or iPadhandy, as you never know where or when your inspiration will come from. When it does, you want to record it down and then find time later to put it all together.
2. Scripting the script
   Write everything down so you know what you are going to say, especially when you are trying something out for the first time. The writing process also helps slow the mind down enough to assess the suitability of the material.
3. Knowing your audience
   What will tickle your audience? What will enthrall your listeners? Westerners and Asians laugh at different things. They also offer different pitfalls. What works with one may not work with the other. So know what drives your audience and what challenges they face.
4. Knowing your purpose
   What is your intent in getting people to laugh? Why are you addressing that particular audience? Your intention sheds light on what you say and how you say it. Always be purposeful.