Juggling Comedy and Corporate Life
Alice Brine is no ordinary creative. As a full-time employee at DEPT and a comedian, she has mastered the art of balancing two demanding careers—one which pays her bills and another which, if she plays her cards right, may just buy her a yacht one day. She recalls the chaotic early days when she would finish her 9-to-5 and hop into an Uber, head to the airport, and embark on a tour of the comedy circuit, complete with overnight hostel stays and jet lag strong enough to make her feel like a zombie from a B-list horror movie.
The Comedy Club Capital of the World
Now residing in London, Alice claims to have traded in the grueling travel schedule for the burgeoning comedy club scene. “Why fly when you can take the tube?” she asks, probably while rolling her eyes at the very thought of boarding a plane again. Her day is effectively split into shifts—9 to 6 at DEPT and 6 to 9 in the world of comedy. Who knew writing, filming, and editing could have such strict hours? Really puts those old-fashioned factory shifts to shame.
Weekend Warrior or Comedy Jedi?
On weekends, Alice operates primarily as a stand-up comedian, mingling with talents and mingling more than just goblets with her ilk. Just yesterday, she found herself preparing to host a red carpet event for Wuthering Heights, all while juggling her work obligations. Picture Alice backstage at the Apollo, firing off a Slack message about a dancing kebab while simultaneously getting her hair styled. Such multitasking could put octopuses to shame—but what’s a little absurdity in the world of creativity?
The Glamour of Rejection
Ah, the sweet scent of rejection wafting through the air! Alice knows it all too well, facing at least 500 rejections while else people just try to find their favorite Netflix series. For her, having an Apple Watch only amplifies the experience as she receives emails mid-conversation—because who doesn’t want a dose of disappointment while presenting to a client? Just a casual “you’re not cut out for this show” amidst a fabulous meeting. Talk about a confidence boost.
Comedy in Advertising: The Good, The Bad, and The Terrifying
During Alice’s tenure in advertising, she quickly realized that brands today are about as funny as a tooth extraction. With all the fear associated with internet backlash, the humorous edge has dulled. “Just turn off the comments!” she implores brands, probably while reading through her own comments section of mad internet users. Seriously, why not anger a couple of trolls for a laugh? At least it’s engagement, right?
The Wild World of Writing Rooms
The transition from comedy writing to ad lingo can be as jarring as swapping your soothing chamomile tea for a double espresso shot. In the realm of comedy, Alice’s feedback is soft compared to the brutal cuts she faces in advertising. “Get rid of that,” her colleagues tell her, while Alice, probably half-laughing, finds herself barely able to drop the hammer as she would when critiquing a weak punchline. If only humor translated as easily into corporate jargon!
Highlighting the Career Path
Yet amidst all the ups and downs—like a rollercoaster ride designed by someone who skips breakfast regularly—Alice lists her contribution to a Katy Perry ad as a career highlight. Who wouldn’t love to boast about creative directing a campaign involving one of the pop queens? It’s the kind of gig that could lend itself to breakfast table banter for years, assuming breakfast didn’t involve coffee and kale.
