In On the Joke

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Today, women dominate standup comedy, making headlines and filling arenas, but the path to this prominence was paved by a remarkable group of trailblazers. Before the likes of Amy Schumer and Tiffany Haddish, the notion of a female comedian was often seen as a joke. This narrative chronicles the journeys of unforgettable women who shattered barriers in standup, spanning decades from Moms Mabley's rise in Black vaudeville to the bold performances of Belle Barth and Rusty Warren in the mid-20th century. It highlights Elaine May's role in co-inventing improv, alongside Joan Rivers and Phyllis Diller's fierce climb to stardom. These women defied expectations and faced skepticism from agents, audiences, and even their families. Despite the challenges, they challenged the stereotype that women couldn't be funny, creating opportunities for future generations. Meticulously researched and vividly portrayed, this account celebrates the women who transformed the comedy landscape, redefining womanhood and proving that humor knows no gender. It illustrates how they broke into a male-dominated field, paving the way for those who followed and ensuring their laughter echoed through the ages.