5 Minutes With Water Mill's Caroline Hirsch

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — Caroline Hirsch, a true pioneer in the comedy business as the owner of New York City’s Carolines On Broadway, is producing a show at Guild Hall in East Hampton on Friday night, called Carolines @ The Beach, featuring an all-female lineup: Karen Bergreen, Food Network star Alex Guarnaschelli and Yamaneika Saunders.

Patch: How did you decide who to bring to Carolines @ The Beach?

Caroline Hirsch: “I picked the kind of talent that I thought would be relevant to the audience. The comedians on this show perform regularly at my club in the city. I’m sure there’s some overlap in the audiences in the city and in The Hamptons.”

Patch: Who was the most memorable performer you ever had at your New York City venue?

CH: “There have been some really, really funny people over the years. But, if I had to pick one, I’d say it was Robin Williams. He was an original. His energy, that manic quality. He was truly one of a kind.”

Patch: Who makes you laugh today?

CH: “I’m spoiled. I get to see the very best of the best. It’s a long list! But keep your eye on Michael Che, who co-anchors Weekend Update on Saturday Night Live. He is really starting to come into his own as a stand-up.”

Patch: How different is the Guild Hall audience from Carolines city audience?

CH: As I said, I think there’s some overlap there. But I think the New York City audiences might be a little more open to and appreciative of the more outrageous and experimental type of comedy you see in the clubs in the city.”

Patch: Living in New York City and Water Mill what do you find funny about the Hamptons?

CH: “The Hamptons is very much like the city in that it can be such a scene and it’s filled with a lot of very colorful characters.”

Patch: Favorite beach?

CH: "Flying Point.”

Patch: Favorite restaurant?

CH: “1770 House in East Hampton.”

Patch: “What do you do for fun?”

CH: “I play golf.”

Photo by Marion Curtis