Today we’d like to introduce you to Israel Dortch.
Israel, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My stage name is IzzyReal, I’m a stand-up comedian in Atlanta, GA. I’ve been performing stand-up comedy since I was 12 and moved to Atlanta when I was 16 and for the last five years, I’ve made a living performing in the Atlanta comedy scene hosting and headlining at venues such as Apache Cafe, uptown comedy corner and Atlanta Comedy theatre. Now I’m taking advantage of Atlanta’s buzzing film industry by creating my own production company Called Milky Way Productions!! I written, Directed and stared in my first web series call “Curve” a romantic comedy about a guy who gets curved by different women.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
When I was a teenage comedian, I couldn’t even perform in a lot of venues due to my age I just turned 21 this year. I’m also a clean comedian that majority perform in bars and nightclubs. Having to write and perform clean material with no profanity jokes for mature audiences can definitely be a challenge. I have to come with clever punchlines and intriguing stories to keep the audience attention. Producing films by myself at such a young age is also a challenge. Having to not only write content but find a way to get enough money to shoot my projects. I also have little experience in film productions, so I make a lot of mistakes and learn as I go. But I love and am proud of the work I’ve done so far. The hardest part about this process is being patient. Much of my career as a entertainer has been going through rejections and failing auditions and typically getting looked over. But I’ve learned to accept my process because when my success comes, this will make for an incredible story.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Milky Way Productions LLC – what should we know?
I am a all in one family entertainer. Having content that is impactful and entertaining for all ages. My storytelling ability is what makes me a great comedian and now transitioning to the film industry will put me in a position to take the entertainment world by storm, all while having positive messages and teaching positive lessons. My goal is to allow the audience to view life through my lenses. I’m most proud of being able to perform across America and produce films at a young age.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I’ve had plenty of mentors along the way such as fellow comedian Alton walker and actor Devin T Robinson X. I worked with several great comedy organizations like Phat Comedy who is an organization who developed teenage comedians. Also, I have a very supportive family who really believe in my dream. My father helped me write my first comedy set and took me to my first open mic. When I first came to Atlanta, I didn’t have a car so veteran comics and promoters would pick me up and take me to shows and events. Also, I would like to give a shout out to Marta!!
Contact Info:
- Phone: 678-812-9946
- Email: theizzyreal@yahoo.com
- Instagram: Theizzyreal
- Facebook: Izzyrealdortch
- Other: YouTube\Izzyrealcomedy
Image Credit:
Terone Allen
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