Clowns or Announcers?

[Doc Wu]

Originally Posted by Karthik

I read the original post on my way home from Pittsburgh last night and planned a response in my head, but most of it is now superfluous thanks to Kate's typically articulate post.

When I emcee, I treat the role similarly to the role of a sportscaster during a pre-game show. They're there to introduce the action, create excitement and anticipation for the upcoming event and fill in the audience on the backstory that the audience may not be familiar with. I try emulate people like Bob Costas, Joe Buck and Jim Nantz who are both incredibly knowledgeable but also have the ability to weave some humour into their descriptions, without drawing attention away from the actual event. Last time I checked, none of these people dress up like clowns.

Nope, the over the top clown suits put me off as well. I know many others (both mentors and students) who feel the same way. The students have told me they feel like they're being treated like a child.

Karthik, you're who I was thinking of when I used the term "Encyclopedic!" You know how to keep people engaged in the competition with your knowledge and humor.

Steve W. has just about the right balance with his colored hair and bright shirts, without going overboard. He and JonDarr are a great team as well.

The female MC at the NYC and Philly regionals who wears the flowers in her hair is good too. Her enthusiasm alone would be enough to notice her, but she's developed a "trademark" look so you recognize her instantly.

Someone mentioned Dave Verbrugge. I haven't been at the right regionals and have missed seeing him for a few years, but he's outstanding as well.

It seems like a lot of you are trying to rebut my statement by citing the MCs who I feel are doing it right. I think we're all saying the same thing, but from different angles.

If you're up in the stands and look at the field, full of referees, team members and field reset volunteers running around, and a voice comes out of the PA system, it's nice to have something to spot so you can home in on the MC when he/she speaks, so I get that. I just think there's a limit where too much of it becomes a bit tasteless. That point may vary widely for different people.