Stratton Smith
Submitted photo
Editor’s note: The Daily Reporter will feature our “Neighbors” each month, whether it be someone with an interesting hobby or profession, or a nonprofit group making a difference in our community. Here, Stratton Smith, a 2013 New Palestine High School graduate, shares about his passion as a comedian prior to a performance at the H.J. Ricks Center for the Arts this week. Smith, 27, currently lives in Indianapolis with his 3-year-old Collie, Tilly, and is a customer service trainer. If you know a person or a group that you’d like to see featured in Neighbors, email [email protected].
Daily Reporter: How did you get started doing comedy?
Stratton Smith: I’ve been trying to make people laugh my entire life, but I started performing in 2014 as a member/co-founder of Manchester University’s improv troupe, Academic Probation.
DR: How would you describe your comedy style?
SS: I’m a storyteller that loves to play with dark humor, adult themes, and puns that would make even your dad roll his eyes.
DR: What have you done with your skill/where have you performed?
SS: I’m currently in an Indianapolis-based improv troupe, Naptown Laughs, who performs around the city. I’ve been doing stand-up for a little over two years, and can seen be around Central Indiana.
DR: What can people expect at the Feb. 19 Ricks performance?
SS: My audiences can always expect to have their comfort zones tested.
DR: What has been the most rewarding part of your career?
SS: The people and fun personalities that I meet along the way.
DR: What challenges do you face as a comedian?
SS: The biggest challenge I face is finding a route to turn this dream of performing into a full-time career.
DR: Tell us a memorable experience in your career as a comedian.
SS: My very first open mic I was heckled by, what appeared to be, a few members of a biker gang, who I was fully convinced were going to murder me outside, in the parking lot, after my very first set.
If you go:
What: Comedy show by Stratton Smith
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19
Where: H.J. Ricks Centre for the Arts, 122 W. Main St., Greenfield
Tickets: $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Advance tickets at EventBrite.com or through the link on Stratton Smith’s Facebook page or Instagram (weirdstrat)
