Tag

Definition

In comedy, a tag is a punchline or additional joke that follows the main joke, serving to enhance or extend the humor of the original setup. Tags often build on the theme or premise of the main joke, allowing for an added layer of comedy that keeps the audience engaged and laughing. They can vary in length and complexity but are typically concise and delivered swiftly to maintain comedic momentum.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tags can be used to capitalize on the audience's laughter from the main joke, creating a rhythm that enhances comedic delivery.
2. A well-placed tag can lead to greater audience engagement, as it gives them something familiar to react to.
3. Tags may vary in their relationship to the main joke; they can be directly related or take a completely different direction while still being funny.
4. Comedians often refine their tags through practice and live performance, determining which ones elicit the strongest reactions.
5. The effectiveness of a tag often depends on timing and delivery, making it essential for comedians to master these aspects in their routines.

Review Questions

• How do tags contribute to the overall effectiveness of a comedic routine?
  • Tags enhance the effectiveness of a comedic routine by providing additional punchlines that build on the initial joke, creating a layered experience for the audience. This technique keeps laughter rolling and extends the comedic moment beyond just one joke. By linking tags closely with the main punchline, comedians can maintain momentum and deepen audience engagement, ensuring that laughs continue even after the main setup has concluded.
• Analyze how tags might differ in their relationship to the main joke and how this impacts audience response.
  • Tags can either closely relate to the main joke, reinforcing its theme or twist, or diverge into an entirely new idea that still elicits laughter. When closely related, tags amplify audience enjoyment by deepening their understanding of the initial premise. In contrast, unrelated tags can surprise and delight by taking unexpected turns. This variability allows comedians to play with audience expectations, resulting in dynamic responses that keep spectators on their toes.
• Evaluate the importance of timing and delivery when using tags in comedy routines.
  • Timing and delivery are critical when using tags because they can significantly influence how effectively the punchline lands. If a tag is delivered too quickly after a main joke, it may not allow enough time for laughter to dissipate, resulting in diminished impact. Conversely, if delivered too slowly, it risks losing audience engagement. Comedians must find a balance between maintaining comedic rhythm and giving audiences space to react, ensuring that tags enhance rather than detract from overall performance.

Related terms

Punchline: The final part of a joke that delivers the humor and is intended to provoke laughter.

Callback: A reference to a previous joke or line in a routine, creating a humorous connection that resonates with the audience.

Setup: The initial part of a joke that introduces the premise and leads up to the punchline.