California State University, Dominguez Hills

10/15/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/15/2024 16:15

Passion, Drive at Heart of Women in Comedy

Left to right: Associate Professor of Film, TV, and Media Toddy Eames, Janine Nabors, Lake Bell, Nicole Jefferson Asher, Erin Foley, and Professor and Chair of Women's Studies Jenn Brandt.

"Having stories to tell is your sustenance-that's what pushes through the breaking points."

So said screenwriter, actor, and director Lake Bell, who moderated "Women in Comedy" on Oct. 7 for an audience of students, faculty, and staff. Presented by the Women's Studies Department and Hollywood by the Horns, the event brought prominent comedy creators and performers to CSUDH to discuss their triumphs and setbacks in the entertainment industry.

In addition to Bell, the panel included screenwriter and producer Nicole Jefferson Asher, comedy writer and stand-up comic Erin Foley, playwright and TV writer Janine Nabers, and actor and comedian Michaela Watkins.

Among the themes discussed were the women's entry points into the industry, how their gender and race inform their work and affects others' perceptions of them, and the ever-evolving media landscape. All the panelists acknowledged the difficulties they encounter as creators-particularly as women creators-but also cited the deep love of their craft as a driving force.

Responding to a student who asked whether obtaining a degree mattered, Jefferson Asher said, "As a woman, your skills will be questioned. Having a degree is a really important thing because somebody cosigned you're good at what you do."

"Also, being able to take time in school to find your voice is amazing," she added.

"Really luxuriating in that time to figure out who you are as an artist is invaluable."

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This event was made possible in part through a generous grant from the Golden Globe Foundation.