Have you ever experienced this in an event; where the MC makes a comment or a remark at a guest and concludes by saying “it’s a joke na” ? I know a lot of people reading this must have seen this scenario play out especially in a typical Nigerian event. Most comedians have ended up embarrassing their audience in the process of cracking a joke and this act has eliminated the supposed etiquette, protocol or what we call the dos and the don’ts of a professional MC.
Comedians, with their quick wit and humor, often find themselves in the spotlight, but when it comes to the role of Master of Ceremony (MC), their skill set may not always align seamlessly with the demands of the position. While laughter is a universal language, you need a delicate balance of various qualities that extend beyond the realms of comedy to be a successful MC.
Firstly, a professional MC possess impeccable organizational skills. From coordinating event timelines to smoothly transitioning between different segments, the ability to manage the flow of an event is paramount. Comedians, though adept at generating laughter, may struggle with the structured and time-sensitive nature of an event.
I strongly recommend organizers of event who insist on having a comedian, to allot time in the program where the comedian can come and get people to have a good laugh while the MC manages the event flow proficiently. Except it is a comedy show where the primary goal is laughter, but beyond that, please note that ceremonies involve a broader spectrum of emotions and sensitivities which most untrained comedians may unintentionally tread on delicate topics or offend sensibilities, risking the harmony of the event.
The role of a professional MC demands strong improvisational skills. Unforeseen circumstances are inevitable, and the ability to navigate unexpected situations with grace is crucial. Comedians, while skilled in thinking on their feet, might find it challenging to shift gears from their jokes to spontaneous hosting.
“The comedian does have his role, a significant role at that in the uplifting of people’s moods and spirits, when APPROPRIATE material is used, not insults, derogatory comments and bias-sensitive jokes.” – Joyce Daniels
I have said it severally, that the job of a Professional MC is beyond talk. A professional Master of Ceremonies (MC) plays a multifaceted role on stage that goes beyond just talking. A Master of Ceremony is essentially a facilitator, guiding the audience through the event seamlessly. This requires a certain level of neutrality and adaptability, qualities that may not align with a comedian’s inclination towards subjective humor and personal anecdotes.
The tone of a ceremony often necessitates a level of formality that may be outside the comfort zone of many comedians. While humor has its place in livening up an event, a professional MC strikes a balance between entertainment and the respectful execution of ceremonial elements.
One of the many unprofessional practices i have seen most untrained comedians exude is prioritizing entertainment over clarity. I am using “untrained” because i know there are some comedians/comediennes who have distinguished themselves by mastering the art of hosting events professionally through training. Ceremonies often involve a diverse range of stakeholders, each with unique expectations. A Professional MC manage these expectations and ensure that all participants feel acknowledged and valued. Comedians, focusing on eliciting laughter, may inadvertently overlook the broader dynamics at play.
While comedians undoubtedly bring laughter and joy to audiences, the role of a Professional Master of Ceremonies demands a more nuanced set of skills. The ability to navigate complex event dynamics, engage diverse audiences, and maintain a delicate balance between entertainment and formality are essential components of successful hosting that extend beyond the traditional scope of comedy. As we appreciate the humor comedians bring, it’s crucial to recognize that mastering ceremonies requires a unique skill set that goes beyond making people laugh.
