Bob Quote by Jeffrey Tambor
“I remember going to Bob Preston's dressing room because I was losing a laugh - as you do in a long run. He said, 'Give me the script. That's where you're going off the road.' That's comedy. It's never the line itself; it's in the foundation.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Comedy Craft, 2010
Comedy relies on foundational structure, not just punchlines; the script guides the humor.
In simple terms: Comedy is built on foundation, not just jokes.
Focus on the underlying structure.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- stand‑up routines
- scriptwriting
- improvisation
- show rehearsals
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What is the role of improvisation?
- How does foundation affect audience reaction?
Overemphasis on script can stifle spontaneity.