By John Garces/entertainment editor
TCC student Aaron Broyles has always had a love for stand-up comedy. Now the NW Campus theater student is turning that love into his first professional gig.
As part of You Are Live, Broyles will perform March 14 at Rose Marine Theater in Fort Worth.
“I’ve always had this thing for imagination and playing since birth,” Broyles said. “And I’ve always had a big love for stand-up.”
That love for stand-up, which he says can be attributed all the way back to a Gallagher special he watched at the age of 3, has now given him the chance to perform for live audiences, first as part of various comedy troupes and now as part of the You Are Live show.
“I’ve worked with a couple of comedy troupes three different times. The one I’m with now has a performance March 28,” he said. “It’s a privilege to work with these people.”
The You Are Live show came about through a friend.
“A friend of mine named Paul Edwards came up to me and asked me what I was doing on March 14,” Broyles said. “It’s a Christian event with improv performances, stand-up comics, a Christian rapper and dancers. I’m going to be doing stand-up and maybe a little improv.”
As for his inspiration, Broyles is quick to point to a stand-up comedy classic.
“My biggest inspiration was George Carlin’s The Seven Words You Can’t Say On Television special,” he said.
But don’t expect him to compare himself to any of the comics you see on the television today.
“I don’t think I’m good enough to compare myself with anybody,” he said.
Broyles’ success is no surprise to his fellow thespians in the theater department, and all are happy for his success.
“Aaron’s a great guy, a quotable guy,” Sophia Basilliadis said before jokingly adding, “I’m jealous.”
“Aaron is one of those guys people might underestimate, but by getting to know him, you know he’s going to be successful,” NW student Anthony Burkmeir said.
NW student Danney Clawson agrees.
“Aaron’s a great guy,” he said. “We went to the same high school together, so I’ve always known he was funny for a long time.”
Showtime is 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for kids. Tickets are half-price with a Star-Telegram press pass.