LOL with The N is a series of four stand-up comedy specials that aired on Noggin's teen programming block, The N.[2] The miniseries aired from May 30, 2003[3] to June 20, 2003. Stand-up comedian Mike Birbiglia was the host of all four segments. Each special features two aspiring teen comedians who get the chance to perform alongside professional stand-up comics. Behind-the-scenes footage, showing all of the comedians preparing their routines, is played after the acts.[4]
The specials compared professional and first-time comics to illustrate how talents can grow over time.[1] Kenny Miller, the vice president of Noggin, explained that "at the beginning of your career and after 10 years, you're at a different stage, and we wanted to represent all of that."[1] The production team aimed to make the specials relatable to all teenage viewers, not just those pursuing a career in comedy. The director, Adam Idleson, commented that "there is sort of a psychic link between being a teenager and being a stand-up comic. It feels like you're out there on the stage alone against the world, and you're dealing with it with humor."[1]
History
Production on the series began in January 2003,[5] with filming taking place at the Gotham Comedy Club in New York City.[6] The new performers were recruited from a training program in Manhattan called Kids 'N Comedy.[1] Visitors were allowed to attend the taping sessions, which started on January5.[7] The series premiered in May 2003 as part of a programming event called "Summer in The N." Each special was shown on a Friday at 7:00 PM.[8]
Episodes
No.
Title
Original air date
1
"Special 1"
May 30, 2003 (2003-05-30)
The first special featured performances from Frankie Marsico, a 16-year-old from Rutherford, and Ed Ubell, a 15-year-old New Yorker.[1]