Ron Reid

Goes underground, just for laughs

The Comedy Underground (www.comedyunderground.com) has been open in the same spot, down a flight of stairs at 222 S. Main St., since 1981. And as an ex-standup comic who's been "commandante regionale" (i.e., manager) of the club since 1993, Ron Reid knows his yuks. We consulted Mr. Yuk — ah, Reid — on the finer points of making people laugh in Seattle.

Q. Do pedestrians see "Underground" and walk in looking for "Freak Bros." comics and a bong in the shape of Jeff Foxworthy's head?

A. I'd like to see a bong in the shape of Jeff Foxworthy's head. They do tend to ask, 'Are these guys funny?' Which I think is a great question. No, I'm sorry, this is the tragedy club. You've come to the wrong place completely.

Q. How would you characterize Seattle humor?

A. I guess there's people still telling Ole and Olga jokes from our fabulous Scandinavian heritage. I think Seattle humor is kind of silly and mainstream, oddly enough, rather than radical and underground.

Q. Best way to deal with a heckler?

A. To kick his ass and call 911 simultaneously.

Q. You host the Seattle International Standup Comedy Competition each November. "American Idol," but with jokes?

A. We discouraged held notes and trills, though.

Q. Tips for first-timers — other than "stay home."

A. Don't drink too much, and pee before you go onstage.

Q. How much harm did TV's "Last Comic Standing" show do to the business?

A. I don't think it did any damage to the business. I think it actually was good for the business.

Q. Those people stunk!

A. I know they stunk. But people go, 'Hey, the guys at the Comedy Underground are better than those guys. Let's go see them.'

Q. How cool would it be if you could switch a flashlight on people in the outside world to make them shut up?

A. That would be great. You've got one minute to wrap up!

Q. Who'd you start with?

A. I think (Donald) Rumsfeld.