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This is the kind of book that troubles grey-suited committees of academic peers. Its too enjoyable. But that, given its subject, is just what it ought to be, and it treats that subject seriously . . . There isnt a dull page anywhere in the book. - Professor Peter Thomson, Studies in Theatre and PerformanceComedy is changing stand-up comedians routinely sell out stadia, their audience-figures swollen by panel-show appearances and much-followed Twitter feeds. Meanwhile, the smaller clubs are filling up, with audiences as well as aspirants. How can we make sense of it all? This new edition of Getting the Joke gives an insiders look at the spectrum of modern comedy, re-examining the world of stand-up in the internet age.Drawing on his acclaimed first edition, Oliver Double focuses in greater detail on the US scene and its comedians such as David Cross, Sarah Silverman, Louis CK, Demetri Martin and Margaret Cho the DIY comedy circuit and its celebrated apostles and visionaries, from Josie Long to Stewart Lee the growing importance of the solo stand-up show the role played by Twitter including an interview with the organiser of the worlds first comedy gig on Twitter, and the driving force that is the TV guest slot, be it on Mock the Week or Live at the Apollo.