Jack Hester: Winning Gong Shows, Performing Under Pressure and Getting To An Hour

Kidding

In the 20th episode of Kidding, Reece Kidd is in conversation with the captivating Irish comedian Jack Hester, who brings the essence of the traditional Gaelic Seanchai, the revered storyteller, to the modern stage.

Jack Hester is a gong show maestro, emerging victorious at comedy hotspots like the Comedy Store, Up the Creek, the Frog and Bucket, and Top Secret. With a dynamic and high-energy performance style, Jack's humor often draws comparisons to the legendary Dave Allen.

As a child, Jack harbored dreams of becoming the Taoiseach (Prime Minister of Ireland), aspiring to inspire and uplift his community. However, he recognized the abundance of jesters in politics and chose a different path—comedy. This decision allowed him to traverse the globe, sharing tales and laughter to lift spirits, akin to the role of a Seanchai.

In this episode, Jack candidly shares his journey, from swiftly entering the comedy scene to contemplating the profundities of Steve Jobs' calligraphy speech. He reflects on his decision to pick comedy over politics and delves into the intricate connection between stand-up and public speaking.

Jack and Reece explore the world of bringer gigs, the guilt that sometimes accompanies comedy, and the art of bouncing back from a bad set. Jack recalls a gig that was both nightmarish and transformational, shedding light on the unexpected benefits of seemingly disastrous performances.

Energetic performances are Jack's forte, and he reveals the techniques and acting principles he employs to engage the audience deeply. Gong shows and club comedy dynamics, the nuances of matching audience energy, and the unique challenges of outdoor venues come under the spotlight as well.

The episode meanders through intriguing discussions, touching on topics as diverse as watching the camera during procedures, the power of daydreaming during mundane tasks, and the transformative boot camp that is the Edinburgh Fringe. Jack even offers his colorful perspective on Brexit in a classic Irish rant.

With insights into social media strategy and musings on the balance between career stability and freedom, this episode encapsulates the essence of Jack's comedic philosophy. As Jack's vibrant storytelling unfolds, listeners are in for an hour of laughter, wisdom, and a genuine peek into the life and mind of a modern-day Seanchai.

Join Reece and Jack for an entertaining and enlightening conversation that underscores the power of comedy to connect, inspire, and heal.

Follow Kidding on social media for clips, live event info and behind the scenes
Kidding Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiddingpodcast/
Kidding Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kiddingpodcast
Kidding Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU49TsZVIbI7vak-EKOBSbA
Follow Reece:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reecek1dd/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@reecekidd

Chapters

1. Jack Hester: Winning Gong Shows, Performing Under Pressure and Getting To An Hour (00:00:00)

2. Starting comedy (00:01:17)

3. Steve Jobs and Calligraphy (00:04:07)

4. Choosing comedy over politics (00:08:32)

5. Standup comedy and public speaking (00:11:07)

6. Bringer gigs (00:16:24)

7. Bombing and overcoming failure (00:18:29)

8. Performance and energy in comedy (00:27:42)

9. Acting and comedy (00:29:32)

10. Club comedy and gong shows (00:33:41)

11. Matching the audiences energy (00:35:38)

12. Outdoor gig in beer garden (00:39:20)

13. Edinburgh as comedy bootcamp (00:51:07)

14. Ranting about Brexit (00:55:01)

15. Social media strategy (00:58:24)

16. A great hour of comedy (01:04:02)