March is Women’s History Month and what better way to celebrate than to laugh in the face of the stereotype, “women aren’t funny.” Here are just a few comedy specials created by women that deserve a watch.
If you really like deadpan humor:
Tig Notaro is for you. No one does straight faced comedy like she does. From stories about her temping days to learning the best way to respond if you are mistaken for a man, Notaro will entertain. A bonus: good luck figuring out if her band is actually going to come out and perform or if it’s all part of the bit. Stream “Happy to Be Here” on Netflix.
If you’re not sure what you’re doing today or tomorrow or just in general:
Taylor Tomlinson is here for you. A woman who doesn’t describe herself as the life of the party but rather as the “faint pulse of the potluck,” Tomlinson excels at relatable comedy. Follow her story about breaking off an engagement and faking it until you make it to start feeling a little less alone in your uncertainty. Stream “Quarter Life Crisis” on Netflix.
If you’re going through a breakup:
Jenny Slate has your back. Her special alternates between her jumping around in a silk jumpsuit and heartfelt interviews with her family members. Slate holds both joy and sadness together in such a silly and smart way, you’ll find yourself coming back to this one over and over again. Stream “Stage Fright” on Netflix.
If you want to learn while you laugh:
Hannah Gadsby did not get on stage to mess around. Yes, you will laugh, but you will not walk away without something new to think about. Her unique perspective makes following her jokes feel like doing a logic puzzle that ends in a laugh. Gadsby knows that tension is what makes a joke work well, and she does not hesitate to use it. Watch “Nanette” on Netflix if you want to see something new brought to the stage.
By: Sarah Cooper
