By Alicia Kelso

Robert Klein has been on the comedic scene for about 40 years. In that time, he’s also dabbled in Broadway, movie and television acting, writing and music, the latter of which inspired his 8 p.m. performances on Jan. 12 and 13 with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra Huntington State Street Pops.

Grammy-, Tony- and Emmy-nominated Klein will bring to Columbus his special brand of sharp-witted stand-up material and humorous songs – including love ballads to medical procedures, odes to the Bronx and selections from his starring role in the Broadway hit, They’re Playing Our Song. While preparing to mix up laughter and music for the symphony crowd, Klein talked to CityScene about what to expect. But as a genius of improvisation, expectations may be pointless.

CityScene: You got your start with the famous Second City troupe, which is still a relevant path for comedians. How did that hire change your career path?

Robert Klein (RK): They were looking for actors. They don’t have to do that anymore because there is such a great talent pool now. I had just seen them and read about them in magazines and they were a sensation. I wanted to be a part of show business. I had a little song and dance in me, but I was bright and political and wanted something where I could combine all of that, and do it on my own terms. It was such a perfect match and allowed me to practice my craft.

CS: How does comedy differ today than it did when you got your start?

RK: Now there are companies all over the place and the level of skill of improvisers is so high. There is a lot of comedy talent out there. But let’s face it, newspapers are dying, people don’t read as many books anymore, children are so in-your-face with computers. People now need things instantaneously. America has dumbed down a little. There is a lot more vulgarity now. Back then you used profanity for a purpose, not just for shock value.

CS: You’ve done Broadway, TV, movies, you’ve written a book and perform comedy. Do you have a preference of work?

RK: Stand-up is my bread and butter; it’s what I love most. I also like transcending different elements. I don’t know how many stand-up comedians would be hired by a symphony orchestra, but I’ve always done music, too. Really, I like all of my work. When I get picked up by a limo and do a half hour show and get a handsome paycheck, what can be better? Making people laugh is a treat, and leaving the room making them happier than when I got there is a great job to have.