The Selection Committee Radio Show feat. Michael Smith, 8/13/24

The legendary performance, video, and installation artist Michael Smith joins Nate Heiges with a mixtape ranging from Mr. Rogers to sales tips for closers to some of the filthiest songs you’ve ever heard in your life. We discuss his career in comedy and performance and his process of taking inspiration from life, media, and thrift store sales bins.

Smith’s work revolves around a character named “Mike,” a modern-day Candide who spends time drinking coffee, watching TV, and exploring various careers, including comedy impresario and entrepreneur. Smith organized variety shows at storied NYC venues like the Pyramid Club and Danceteria, and eventually made a pilot for Cinemax of Mike’s Talent Show. This episode of the Selection Committee itself is organized a bit like a variety show, with music, comedy clips, and Mike’s inimitable sense of humor.