I've personally come to believe that at least half of the "spontaneous" stuff I see at comedy performances is just very well-rehearsed by those with an acting talent they don't make a big deal about. In my fantasy world I'd love to believe that that was a special magical moment just between them and me, but I can take that illusion home with me as long as the performer doesn't give away the rehearsal aspect of their performance - as long as it looks natural, I'm none the wiser.

Frankly it doesn't really matter if the "spontaneous" joke isn't - I get just as much of a rush of endorphins at the moment, and I go home remembering a mind-numbingly hilarious moment. It's a great performance that gives me what I paid for, and that's a rare thing you can give the audience.

I used to get upset when I felt comedians weren't including enough actual spontaneity in their sets. I now realize that coming up with spontaneously funny bits every night is unrealistic, but I still have a strong distaste for "fake" spontaneity. For the record I would consider the above clip as "spontaneous", since the situation wasn't planned, but it would be a different story if you were to try to re-create it again (and proceeded to act surprised each time). It wouldn't make me say "that guy's a bad comic", but it might mean I don't make as much effort to see you next time you come around.

So the vote is tied 1 all. NOW WHAT DO I DO???