Tig Notaro: Boyish Girl Interrupted

Tig Notaro: Boyish Girl Interrupted is a stand-up comedy special from 2015 starring the inimitable comedian Tig Notaro. The one-hour HBO special features Notaro in an intimate setting at the Wilbur Theatre in Boston. The title 'Boyish Girl Interrupted' is a perfect representation of Notaro's untitled personality, foreshadowing the hilarious truth-telling that the audience can expect over the course of the hour.

Notaro gained widespread fame in 2012 when she casually announced that she has just been diagnosed with cancer during a live set, ultimately turning a tragic event into a legendary go-to joke throughout her career. This put her on the comedy map, making her known for her witty humor and love for uncomfortable truth-telling. In this special, Notaro came back bigger and bolder, establishing her as not just a survivor, but a comic powerhouse who can tackle literally any subject matter with her singular style of understated insight and razor-sharp wit.

In 'Boyish Girl Interrupted', Notaro demonstrates her unique comedic voice and expert storytelling abilities that delve into a range of topics such as growing up in Mississippi, dealing with unexpected health scares and crises, hospitality etiquette, and more. One of the standout moments of the show features Notaro taking off her shirt to proudly reveal her mastectomy scars, thereby shattering the conventional comedic routine. This moment is hailed as an act of defiance and confidence, an illustration of the comedian’s unapologetic transparency.

The special is laced with Notaro's signature understated comedy of the everyday. The humor in her performance arises from the subtle, nuanced observations into the human condition. She uses her background of personal struggle to create comedy that is raw, honest, and deeply relatable. Notaro has an exceptional comedic timing, and her stage presence is captivating. She makes you laugh, but also makes you think, offering insight and perspective through her comedy.

Moreover, 'Boyish Girl Interrupted' feels like a performance that doesn't just aim for laughs but also human connection. Every joke she cracks and story she tells is laid bare with the authenticity of a person who has confronted life's messiness head-on. Notaro's ability to laugh at life's hardships and absurdities shines here, making the special a profound mix of hilarity and melancholy.

Throughout the performance, Notaro exhibits her characteristic dry wit and deadpan humor. Her style is no-holds-barred, and her subject matter can sometimes be as heavy as it is humorous. Still, she approaches each topic with a nonchalant, almost Zen-like calm that sets her apart from her contemporaries. The humor in 'Boyish Girl Interrupted' doesn't come from punchlines as much as it arises from observations, inflections, and the oddness of life itself.

The direction of 'Boyish Girl Interrupted,' captures the stripped-down nature of Tig’s act. It’s a simple stage show—meaning there’s no band, backup dancers, or scenic backdrop—just Tig, her mic, and the story she is telling. Yet, the production never feels sparse. Instead, the simplicity is a testament to Notaro’s charisma and the unique bond she shares with her audience.

While 'Boyish Girl Interrupted' can be searingly personal, it’s also universally accessible. Notaro's comedy refuses to shy away from tough, poignant moments of life, yet she does it in such a way that it doesn't alienate her audience. Instead, it draws them closer.

In 'Boyish Girl Interrupted', Tig Notaro seamlessly weaves humorous anecdotes with personal revelations, making for a stand-up special that is as much a comedic triumph as it is a testament to human resilience. Her comedy is a lesson in the power of turning pain into humor and the cathartic clear-sightedness that comes from facing your fears, no matter how large they may loom. 'Boyish Girl Interrupted' brings forth laughter and respect in equal measures, leaving her audience not just entertained but also moved and inspired. It's a must-watch for fans of stand-up comedy and anyone who appreciates humor that cuts deep and pushes boundaries.