For nearly 200 years, stand-up comedians haven’t just been reflecting society, they’ve been influencing it through pointed social commentary. Join us for a discussion about the evolution of the art form, some of the most influential comedians, the growing challenge of censorship, and much more.

Featuring:

Lanita Jacobs, associate professor of American studies and ethnicity and anthropology at USC Dornsife. Author of To Be Real: Truth and Racial Authenticity in African American Stand-Up Comedy

Wayne Federman, adjunct professor at USC School of Dramatic Arts. Author of The History of Stand-Up: From Mark Twain to Dave Chappelle. Emmy-winning producer of George Carlin's American Dream.

Cruz Arroyo, PhD Candidate in English at USC Dornsife, studying the fictionality of stand-up comedy.

Moderator: Kirstin Eggers, assistant professor of theatre practice in comedy performance at USC School of Dramatic Arts. Actor, writer, and comedic performer.

Learn more about the Dornsife Dialogues and sign up for the next live event here.