Feb 9, 2015
Paul Provenza is a true Renaissance man of comedy.
Having gain worldwide critical success for his film the Aristocrats, the history of the world's dirtiest joke, he went on to create and star as the host of the comedy cult classic series the Green Room. Then if that wasn't enough to solidify a career he thereafter co-produced the show Set List, where comedians go onstage with nothing prepared and are given their set list on the spot to see what they can invent.
Paul is a philosophical good hearted dreamer who has lived in Venice Beach, CA for 30 years. This past year when I have come to LA I have been staying in Venice Beach. We recorded this on a Saturday afternoon in February in Paul's living room, as much as I always enjoy talking with him this recording has the added bonus that I could see the waves of the Pacific ocean crashing over Paul's shoulder.
He is currently directing Kelly Carlin in her one woman show about her life and being George Carlin's daughter. I had seen the show 2 nights earlier and asked Paul if we could record this conversation. We talk about how doing comedy and seeing comedy is a defiant act now since world news attacks on humor, we talk about how people are seeking authenticity now because they are fed up with the bullshit they have been spoon fed for so long. We talk about the slaughter at Charlie Hebdo and the geopolitical corporate powers won't let us hear alternative Muslim voices because they need to convey a clear enemy in their propaganda.
I love Paul because whenever I talk to him it's never not lofty and seeking world turmoil solutions. He is a comedy legend, a brilliant human being and I am proud to present to you now the one and only Paul Provenza!
Intro song: Cutting Room (Hot Pants) – Oceanliners
End song: Wanted: Lover (No Experience Necessary) – James Govan
Recorded in Venice Beach, CA. February 2015