Actor, comedian takes center stage
Senior uses humor to stand out among his peers
April 13, 2016
When senior Ethan Fogel describes his “off-brand humor,” he references the wide variety of comedic acts available.
“My humor can sometimes fluctuate between making fart noises and making obscure pop culture references,” Fogel said.
Fogel said his humor comes in part from his father.
“I believe I picked up some of my observational humor from my dad who always has his own comical opinion about someone or something,” Fogel said.
Theatre director Jodi Hatzenbeller said Fogel has impressive talents.
“Even as a freshman he showed strong intuitive talents, landing a lead role in his first performance on our stage,” she said. “With time, his analysis and nuance has deepened, as has the darkness of his comedy.”
Hatzenbeller said Fogel is passionate for his roles on stage.
“Ethan’s exuberant enthusiasm has always been a highlight for me. He delves to roles wholeheartedly and is willing to take risks,” she said. “He does not let vanity or inhibition stand in the way of committing to a character.”
Fogel said his brand of comedy can also lead to strange situations.
“I also quite enjoy creating very terrible puns. I enjoy making awkward situations more awkward with some kind of comment or observation, or creating awkward situations myself,” Fogel said.
Fogel said entertaining others isn’t the only point of his comedy.
“I very much enjoy making other people laugh, but I enjoy making myself laugh almost as much,” Fogel said.
Hatzenbeller said humor separates Fogel from his peers on stage.
“Ethan’s quirky humor definitely makes him stand out. It is both oddball and intellectual,” Hatzenbeller said.
In addition to his humor, Fogel said he enjoys performing with the theatre department.
“I’ve been doing theater since a couple years before high school. I really love the community and the chance to act like someone I’m not,” Fogel said. “It’s like a more grown up version of playing pretend.”
Fogel said his brand of comedy is what makes him a unique individual.
“I believe that my off-brand humor is what makes me different from everyone else, and some people just don’t understand it,” Fogel said.
