Grad Revue is an annual show put on by Harvard's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, showcasing the talents of its students in comedy and other performing arts. The event has become a defining experience for many Harvard students, and this year's show, which featured performances by the Colbert Class and the Hayden Class, was no exception.
Comedy has always been a central part of Grad Revue, as it allows the performers to connect with their audience in a unique and memorable way. Whether through sketches, stand-up routines, or musical numbers, the comedians of Grad Revue seek to entertain, enlighten, and impress their peers, professors, and alumni.
The Colbert Class, named after comedian and satirist Stephen Colbert, was particularly focused on political humor and social commentary. Their performance included several songs and skits that poked fun at current events, including the 2020 presidential election, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic. One of their most popular sketches involved a group of scientists trying (and failing) to explain the science behind the virus to a skeptical layman.
The Hayden Class, named after renowned astronomer Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin, took a more eclectic approach to comedy, incorporating elements of improv, physical theater, and satire into their performance. Their sketches ranged from lighthearted parodies of pop culture icons like Harry Potter and Star Trek to more serious explorations of mental health and identity. One standout sketch involved a therapist trying to help a patient overcome a fear of commitment – only to reveal that the therapist herself had the same problem!
Both classes demonstrated a deep appreciation for the art of comedy, using wordplay, timing, and physical comedy to deliver their jokes and engage their audience. They also proved adept at creating satire, taking on big topics like politics, religion, and social norms with equal parts cleverness and irreverence.
Beyond just being fun and entertaining, the Grad Revue show offers a unique opportunity for graduate students to hone their comedic skills. By collaborating with their peers, working with professional coaches, and performing in front of a live audience, these young comedians are able to develop their craft and build the confidence needed to pursue a career in comedy, if they so choose.
In sum, the Colbert Class and the Hayden Class show at this year's Grad Revue event showcased the incredible talent and creativity of Harvard's graduate students, while also highlighting the enduring power of comedy as a means of bringing people together, making them laugh, and promoting understanding and tolerance. Whether studying the stars or seeking to understand the intricacies of human behavior, these performers proved that they have what it takes to make their mark on the world – one joke at a time.