Okay, folks, I'll admit it. I don't like stand-up. I really don't...well, except Sarah Silverman...because, you know, my last name is Goldman, and I thought, "Hey, Sarah, let's you and I do a comedy duo and we can be Goldman/Silverman..Silver and Gold, Gold and Silver....uh.......no."

But really, I tend to veer away from stand-up, but things have changed for me. Why? Because I attended the Caste of Killers Comedy Showcase 7 at Karma Bar and Grill. This event showcased outstanding young comedians, who are each provided 7 minutes to hit the stage and tear it up. Comedian Lara Beitz tore the place up with her deadpan delivery of bad haircuts and bad boyfriends, and veteran comedienne extraordinaire--the tiny dynamo that is Chastity Washington knocked 'em down with her racous, in-your-face style. I had the opportunity to talk to these two women about what it means to be a woman in stand-up, what makes them laugh, and how teaching provides tons of material.

This is Part 1 of a two-part story on how comedy MAKES MILWAUKEE.