Comedian uses awkward silences to impress crowd at Grumpy Dave's Pub

Silence is often considered the muted killer in comedy. When audiences aren't laughing, a comedian's act is usually dying.

Yet professional comedian Kris Shaw thrives off awkward pauses and idle reactions from crowds. He understands and has perfected the art of comedic timing.

"He's got spaces where he uses silence in his act and it actually works in his favor," said Steve Sabo, founder of Inside Jokes Productions and friend to Shaw. "He's got a special quality. He's got an energy, a presence that draws you in."

Shaw headlined the multi-comic show Tuesday night at Grumpy Dave's Pub. Shaw, who performs about 40 shows a month, said his joy for comedy has grown exponentially since his comedy career started seven years ago.

"It's more fun than what it was before," the 36-year-old said. "I like to keep connections with younger crowds and younger audiences and comedians."

Shaw uses life experiences and memorable misfortunes to compliment his raunchy and off-color jokes.

Shaw, who has four daughters and one son, said his house is just like "The Cosby Show" sans the multi-million dollar endorsements. Shaw asked the audience to pray for him as he is in "negotiations" with Telemundo to set up cameras in his house.

All kidding aside, Shaw values the benefits family provides, especially when he is consistently touring away from his home.

"[Family] keeps me balanced. When I go home, I try to make sure my family is my first commitment and then afterwards I go back to jokes," he said.



Veteran Grumpy Davers were impressed and entertained after Shaw's hour long-set.

"I really liked him. He had a different perspective of comedy. He was a really good comedian for Grumpy Dave's," said senior Drew Barnes who has been to comedy night about 25 times before.

Tim Hoyt, marketing manager of Inside Joke Productions, said Shaw's performance "stacked up really well" compared to other comics the company schedules to perform at Grumpy Dave's Pub.

Shaw always has a good time in Bowling Green. Whether it's following the last few people out of the comedy club and into the bars or winding up at Bob Evans before leaving Northwest Ohio, Shaw said he'll keep performing where he's wanted.

"As long as people are coming to support [me], it means they are having fun and enjoyment. When the place is empty, that's when there is a problem."

Blogger's Note: This story was originally published in Friday's online version of The BG News.