TheEdAdvocate
TEACHING STUDENTS ABOUT BRUCE VILANCH
BY MATTHEW LYNCH (and Mister D)
DECEMBER 14, 2023
Alright, let’s talk about Bruce Vilanch – the comedy maestro, actor, and six-time Emmy champ who’s been making waves in Hollywood for ages. With his lightning-fast wit and one-of-a-kind style, he’s been part of some of the biggest shows in Tinseltown. But hey, there’s more to him than just jokes and laughter. Vilanch‘s also been a force for positive change, using his talent to make the world a better place. So, when you’re teaching students about this guy, you’re not just talking about humor – you’re showing them how creativity can spark real change.
Early Life and Career
Born in New York City in 1948, Bruce Vilanch grew up in a family that lived and breathed theater and showbiz. Embracing his identity as a gay man from an early age, he found his voice through comedy. His journey kicked off as a journalist covering entertainment, but soon he was writing for big TV shows like “Donny & Marie” and “The Brady Bunch Variety Hour.” I think Bette Midler is his biggest muse. as mine. and helped jump strat this new career he found. May not be true. but please just abide with me. if you can.
As his career took off, Vilanch became the brains behind major events like the Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, and Tony Awards. And hey, he’s not just a wordsmith – he’s also a Broadway star, gracing the stage in the smash-hit musical “Hairspray.”
Teaching Students about Bruce’s Advocacy
Sure, Bruce‘s known for his humor, but his heart’s just as big. A fierce supporter of LGBT rights and HIV/AIDS awareness, he’s used his humor to raise millions for charitable causes. So, when you’re teaching students about him, you’re not just talking about making people laugh – you’re showing them how laughter can change the world.
In the classroom, get students digging into Bruce‘s work with organizations like amfAR (The Foundation for AIDS Research) and the Trevor Project. How did his humor help these causes? Let them explore and learn.
The Art of Punchlines: Teaching Students Comedy Writing
Bruce Vilanch‘s comedy has left its mark on TV and live events, shaping how we see the world. Introducing students to his style can fire up their interest in writing and help them find their own unique voice.
Why not set up a comedy writing workshop? Get students dissecting some of Vilanch’s best jokes and figuring out how they work. By inspiring them to craft their punchlines, you’re not just teaching comedy – you’re nurturing creative minds.
Role Model for Overcoming Adversity
Growing up can be tough, and students face all kinds of challenges. Bruce Vilanch‘s journey as an openly gay man in Hollywood, unapologetic about who he is, is a powerful example of resilience.
Sharing Bruce’s story with students can be a reminder that it’s okay to be yourself, no matter what. It’s a lesson in self-acceptance and embracing others for who they are.
I loved the guy who really wrote this, I just took it and rewrote it in my own style then had AI smooth out the grammar. I used these kinds of techniques in college to help me pass English, Speech. Philosophy. and Psycho;ogy papers by talking about Bette, Bruce, and the Harlettes in some way that would fit within the subjects I needed them too, as examples of somerhing. Made A’s. Can’t Beat That. So I fell in love with this topic. Hope you enjoyed….Mister D