It was one of those marvelous new spring evenings in New York City, cool, crisp and clear. The added boon was that it was a Friday, and a payday at that.

I had decided to meet my friends Jack and Paul in the East Village for some dinner. After dinner we walked around for a while, enjoying the night air, finally ducking into a hole-in-the-wall bar. It was a funky, dark place, just off the avenue, and as soon as we entered, our sense of smell was assaulted by the aroma of beer. The bar was quite full and noisy.

“You here to see someone?” the bartender inquired. He explained that Friday night was showcase night, when various comedians and folk singers and other musicians performed. I told him not really, but that my friends and I would stay for the show.

Up there on that stage were the most... Read More