Dealing with a heckler can be one of the most frustrating things you ever experience. Rarely are we ever confronted with a person who is openly attacking us verbally. It can surprise many people, and it even has the power to stop shows and live acts. In addition, it is perfectly possible to be heckled in daily life. Just ask most women or any person who lives an alternative lifestyle, and they will surely have at least one story of being heckled by strangers.
So, when you are being heckled, what can you do? Most people get angry and defense. While this is normal, there is a better way. Lets review some of the things you can do to deal with hecklers.
1. Ignore Them
Simply put, the easiest way to deal with a heckler is to ignore them. If this is during a live show, then simply pay attention to the other side of the room. Do not try to make eye contact or engage the person/persons at all. Remember, a conversation is only a conversation when it involves two people. Do not become the second person. More often then not, people around the heckler will take offense to what the person is doing and stop them.
2. Engage and Outwit Them
For many comedians, being quick on your feet with wit is crucial to surviving in the industry. That is why many comedians will outwit hecklers, taking the time to put them in their place. Turn the conversation on them, making them both the butt of a joke and also the star. Give them the attention they do not want and use the crowd to help. While this may work within a crowded public place, be aware that many hecklers have low self-esteem, and may react violently if put in their place.
3. Approaches and Compassion
This technique usually involves asking the person to politely stop, explaining why their behavior is unacceptable. If they continue heckling, then take the time to tell them that you genuinely feel sorry for them and what they are doing. Remind them about the public shame they are bringing on themselves through their action, being sure to remain emotionless and objective. When confronted with their own childish behavior directly, many hecklers will stop, feeling embarrassed instead.
4. Cry
If nothing else, give the heckler exactly what they want. Make a giant deal out of the heckling, creating an incredibly uncomfortable experience that is the result of the heckler. This can alienate the heckler, and you can later reveal to everyone the hilarity behind your technique.