By: Erin Haskell
Stand up comedians Randy and Jason Sklar, twin brothers from the outskirts of St. Louis, moved to New York City in 1994 in pursuit of their dream job in comedy. They were discovered by MTV talent executives who came up with a sitcom called “Apartment 2F,” based on Randy and Jason’s experiences living in New York City.
The short-lived sitcom allowed the Sklar Brothers to go viral online through their podcasts called “Sklarbro Country,” as well as on television, where they have guest-starred in multiple television shows such as “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Entourage,” and “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.” They have also made appearances in the films “Bubble Boy” and “Wild Hogs.”
The Sklar Brothers’ routine at RAH began with a few owl jokes at Rowan University’s expense.
“You guys have the weakest mascot,” Jason Sklar said, “What, is he going to give you extra work to do?”
“And why do owls always have glasses,” Randy Sklar added, “They can see in the dark!”
Students enjoyed the fact that the Sklar Brothers incorporated the campus into their routine.
“I thought they were very college-friendly,” said freshman chemical engineering major Tarynn Huitt.
The performance continued with their seemingly effortless back and forth banter, affirming their unique delivery style as a duo. This is presented to the audience by one brother talking over the other to finish a sentence or thought, through back and forth conversation, or by one agreeing with or adding onto the other’s thoughts.
“We need to put an end to fairy tales and you guys are the generation to do it,” Randy Sklar said emphatically.
“Because we know a lot of married people,” Jason Sklar finished, “and nobody lives happily ever after.”
Students had mixed opinions on this delivery style.
“I thought they were pretty funny,” said freshman biology major Justen Dowling. “The way they work together and coordinate with each other. I would see them again.”
“The performance was great,” said freshman chemical engineering major Matthew Rhodes. “It was kind of confusing since they talked over each other. I didn’t get who was talking some of the time.”
Towards the end of the performance, Jason Sklar’s microphone battery died. However, thanks to the RAH employees on standby in case of this particular incident, the battery was quickly changed and the performance recovered.
The show ended successfully with laughter, applause and an overwhelming positive reaction from the audience.
“I liked the performance a lot,” said Greg Silber, a junior, writing arts major and RAH employee. “I’ve seen them on television and their delivery is very funny. This is one of the better performances we’ve had at RAH.”
Currently, Randy and Jason Sklar write and appear in a segment on ESPN’s SportsCenter known as “The Bracket,” as well as guest host for Jim Rome on his radio show, “The Jim Rome Show.” They continue to perform stand-up all over the country and can be seen on TBS’s “Conan” Sept.14 as well as the Helium Comedy Club in Philadelphia Nov. 3 through 5.
