Exclusive: My tip for comedians is to approach hecklers with compassion, says Conrad Molden

Conrad Molden has become a beacon for English-speaking comedy in Denmark. While browsing through my Instagram feed, I stumbled upon a captivating and entertaining video that instantly sparked my interest in connecting with Conrad. He is a remarkable combination of simplicity, grace, and unwavering passion for making people laugh. 

The raw power and freedom of comedians with a microphone mesmerised Conrad from a young age, creating a magical and liberating experience. In an exclusive conversation with us, Conrad Molden shared insights into his unwavering passion for comedy, offered tips for aspiring comedians, spoke about his inspiration, and even shared his memorable experiences in India.

Here are the edited excerpts from the exclusive and delightful interaction:

How did you discover your passion for comedy?

Both my parents have always loved comedy. We watched a lot when I was young. My Mum decided to take me to live stand-up shows when I was young, and we loved it. I loved the raw power of it; just a comedian and a microphone, with complete freedom, creating a rapport. It was magical and liberating.

Can you share a bit about your journey to becoming a comedian?

As soon as I was 16, I began stand-up comedy open mics in London, where I'm from. Unfortunately, it didn't go well. I was very young and nervous. I couldn't write jokes, and my time on stage was always terrifying. After half a year, I gave up and was heartbroken. I still watched many stand-ups but never thought I would perform. At the age of 22, I moved to Denmark to study. It's where I still live more than 10 years later. I wrote some observations about Denmark and the language and felt I needed to get it out. I applied to a stand-up comedy open mic in Aarhus, my city. I had five minutes, and it went very well. I became addicted and quickly started performing three or four times a week. It grew so much that I started "English Stand Up Comedy Aarhus", and English open mic night aimed at Danes and internationals. I still perform there every week.

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A post shared by Conrad Molden (@conradmoldencomedy)

What influences or inspirations have shaped your comedic style or approach to making people laugh?

Firstly: other comedians. I love many comedians; listening to them for years has helped me change my mindset to find the funny in the world—secondly, my time at secondary school. In England, you start a new level of education at 11, and I was very unpopular at this time. I was scared and often bullied. Soon I found that making fun of myself prevented people from being cruel to me. I think that I took away their power because I was the first to point at myself and laugh. It gave me new confidence, and now as a comedian, I can make fun of myself on stage and not feel embarrassed.

Can you share any memorable experiences or challenges you've encountered while performing as a comedian?

I perform in English in a Danish-speaking country. Almost all Danes speak a good level of English which is key to my success. But I struggle to understand Danish comedians, which is really difficult because I want to understand the local comedy of Denmark better.

How do you develop new material and keep your comedy act fresh and engaging for the audience?

I always keep notes of small observations I make all the time. My tip for anyone wanting to work in comedy is always to write everything down, no matter how small. It might not be funny now, just of interest. Then I write material, organise everything together, and they grow. Friends will tell stories, or I'll read about something, and slowly these things will come together into a 'bit' that I can use on stage. And that's the most important part: practising. I regularly go to open mics, perform 'bits' (sometimes with no idea what I will actually say on stage), and then think about the audience's reactions. In stand-up, the audience is your instrument. So you want to convey your message easily and get the laughs. This process goes back and forwards as you write, re-write, perform, and review your material. Before long, you have bits that you are sure will always entertain.

How do you interact with and engage your audience during your live performances?

Partly, stand-up comedy is an illusion. The comedian appears to be thinking and musing about things live on stage and just being "spontaneously funny". I always come prepared to rock an audience with carefully written jokes. But the genuinely spontaneous moments need to be there too, when you chat with people in the audience and get a feeling for their response. These moments are usually the funniest, turning a "performance" into a show.

What advice would you give aspiring comedians looking to pursue a career in comedy?

I wouldn't look at comedy as a career. Look at it because you love it. Write, perform and always try to be better. If you work hard, then hopefully, some money will follow. Write material, find open mics and perform, listen to feedback, watch other comedians, write together and always be open to change.

How do you handle hecklers or unexpected reactions from the audience during your shows?

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A post shared by Conrad Molden (@conradmoldencomedy)

Danes are usually very humble and reserved, so heckling is rather rare. I also perform for internationals, which can feel very different – sometimes, people are more chatty or interactive. But when I do get bullied (usually by drunk people!) I just try to include them. Usually, they just want to add jokes and aren't a threat. My tip for comedians is to approach hecklers with compassion. You can usually add them to the show and just get laughs. It's very rare that someone is out for sabotage.

How do you balance your comedy career with other aspects of your life?

That can be tricky. We have two small children, and my wife cares so much for them. She's the kindest and most supportive partner I could ever wish for. She has many evenings and weekends with them while I'm away for hours, sometimes days. Without her, none of this would be possible.

What do you hope the audience takes away from your comedy performances?

I hope they feel relaxed, happy and have had a good few laughs. My comedy isn't political, just light-hearted observations, and I want them to feel like they see day-to-day life with a new sense of humour.

Any plans to visit India?

I have been a couple of times! I actually first did some volunteering at some schools up in Himachal Pradesh. I fell in love with the country and ended up returning with friends and family. I have been to many parts, from Punjab to Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka and Kerala. One day I would love to go back when my children are older. I dream of again backpacking across India with my son, maybe this time exploring the East Coast.