Women and Comedy in Solo Performance

Explore the evolution of women's comedy in Suzanne Lavin's insightful book, Women and Comedy in Solo Performance. Published in 2014, this compelling work spans 162 pages and delves into the significant transformations in American women's comedic performances from 1955 to 1995. Lavin meticulously examines the iconic stand-up routines of Phyllis Diller and Roseanne, alongside the character-driven comedy of Lily Tomlin. As the narrative unfolds, readers will witness a fascinating shift from the traditional vaudevillian style exemplified by Diller in the 50s to the more satirical approaches showcased by Tomlin in the 60s and Roseanne in the 80s and 90s. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the rich history of women comedians and the impact they have made on the comedy landscape. Discover the voices that paved the way for future generations of female performers and appreciate their contributions to the art of comedy.