For Attell, there's life after Insomniac
|
 | |
By G. Michael Dobbs
Managing Editor
Dave Attell may not be shooting his hit show Insomniac any longer, but he's keeping very busy.
Attell's most recent Comedy Central special allowed him to feature three up-and-coming comedians performing live, and pretty much uncensored, in Las Vegas. The feature-length comedy concert film was the first for the cable network and it featured Attell and fellow comics Sean Rouse, Greg Giraldo and Dane Cook.
Attell has also produced a DVD of a live stand-up performance that he is selling on his web site (www.daveattell.com) and Comedy Central will be releasing Dave Attell's Insomniac Tour Presents Sean Rouse, Greg Giraldo And Dane Cook on DVD in time for the holidays.
Attell is performing at the Comedy Connection at the Hu Ke Lau on Nov. 5 for two shows.
"I'm always on the road," Attell told Reminder Publications during a recent telephone interview. "I'm excited to come back. It's always fun working in Massachusetts."
Attell said that he does miss some aspects of Insomniac. The show featured Attell in a different city cruising the streets and meeting people after he performed at a local club. Part reality show, part twisted travelogue, Insomniac revealed what happens in America after dark.
Attell admitted that filming the show meant a increase in his alcohol consumption. Pushing the age of 40 and being in a bar with frat boys, he said, was "weird."
What he really liked about the show was the freedom he had with Comedy Central.
"They give you the leeway to do your own thing," he said.
The new comedy special combines Insomniac's format of the comics interacting unrehearsed with themselves and others with a concert film.
Attell explained he was looking for a project that would allow him to be the host and present fellow comics.
"It was cool to bring out other guys," he added.
While the number of people performing comedy remains strong, Attell said there is a new dynamic happening family friendly shows.
Due to a new wave of political correctness, Attell said some clubs won't give a chance to certain comedians.
He said that many clubs are looking for comics who are "squeaky clean." While the change has not affected him much his reputation for filling clubs with people who enjoy his no-holds-barred comedy is secure new comics have a rougher time establishing themselves.
He explained that many club owners don't want to book some one who hasn't been on television and want an act that won't offend audiences.
"It's bad," Attell said. "Comics in clubs are supposed to be edgier and raw. I've seen it everywhere."
It's not just comedy clubs in the South or Midwest, he explained, but also in New York as well.
"That's just not right. I really don't understand it," he said.
What's up next for Attell? He said he loves working in Las Vegas and would like to host a variety show from Sin City.
Naturally for Attell, it would be an edgy variety show.
|
|
