We all need a laugh sometimes, and a good musical will give you one, whether the base show is a comedy and everyone is cracking jokes, or is more serious and the role is given to just one character. Comic relief can help break the tension but also when done well add a change of pace without being a distraction. At their worst they can derail the story, distract, or make the audience lose interest. But we are going to save the worst for another day, today I want to talk about when a musical does comic relief right as well as given an example or two. The kind that leave you laughing long after their scene ends, that leave a lasting impression or could even be your favorite part of the show. But first let's dive a little deeper into what makes good comic relief.
Good comic relief is the kind that a character could have even just one scene and steal the show. They are not overacting or trying too hard, they are just in their element, they could even be unaware what they are doing could be considered funny. They could just be living their day to day life and deliver a line that hits with the audience but to them is not out of character and makes sense to them. They will either do something that seems crazy to us, or say something super witty, but to them it will be just how they view the world, it adds to the show instead of take away from it. It gives you a moment to laugh and breath when things are tense, or if the show is comedic it keeps the energy up and the mood light. Comedy can shift the mood when needed or keep the mood where it needs to be when done right.
My first example is Paulette from Legally Blonde. The show is full of comedic characters, and everyone has a great line or a funny moment. So how does she stand out besides getting added stage time and being a crucial piece to the plot. She adds to the leads journey and the lead adds to hers making it a great friendship. A great comedic relief is one with purpose, Paulette has her own problems, her own storyline, and her own dreams that play out alongside Elle's. She helps progress the plot, has her own story line that does not subtract and adds to some of the themes of the show. Yes she is a just a character whos storyline was already shown in the movie this is based on, but the musical expands her character so much more. She gets a lot more screen time, and some songs that are also super funny besides moving the plot along.
Another necessary part of comedic relief is that they are more then just jokes. Some can be only comedic and work, but the more stage time they get, the more they need to show why there are there. Sometimes the plot can be overshadowed in favor of jokes, so a good character moves the story along while making you laugh. It can cause the audience to remember the story and the moment, while not just spilling exposition.
My other example for today is King George III from Hamilton. Though he is not on stage at all times, he leaves in impact when he does. He is used to not only have a light and fun way of showing the English side of the revolution but to prepare for the next big story beats. He conveys information all while putting his opinion and spin on the plot so far. When he arrives he makes the scene his own, and his songs are always in character. He may be dispensing information crucial to the plot, even as an outsider, or how it affects him. Never breaking character he shares his thoughts even after his involvement in the plot has shifted away from the conflict of act one. He reappears even after his time with the plot is done to remind the audience he is still there, and wants them to know it, which leaves a great impact. His songs are not only incredibly well made, but also reflect his style, never changing so even though the musical style is the same his thoughts change. Using a layer of familiarity before delivering a great punchline.
That is another great sign of a great comedic character, when they have balance of the familiar and the surprise. They can lull the audience into thinking they know where the punchline is going only to go in the opposite direction for a great comedic pay off. Whether in song or in the dialogue, comedic relief is essential, whether to move the plot along while making us laugh, or giving us a much needed break from the action, when done well they can stay with you long after the curtain call.
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