Embarking on the journey from an accountant or student or anything else to comedian can seem like a leap, but with the right strategy, you can find yourself under the spotlight making people laugh.
Comedy is appealing because it seems to require no apparent skill, such as vocal talent, musical instrument or physical ability.
That's like thinking stock trading requires no talent to make money, since it's just clicking a button.
In reality, stand up comedy and day trading are probably the hardest things you can try, with 80-90% failure rates.
However most people quit right before they're about to figure it out, and the good news for you is we'll discuss how to be in the 10% that carry on to have lucrative and rewarding careers in entertainment.
That all starts with the basics.
How To Get Stage Time as a Comedian if You're New to Comedy
Here’s how to carve out stage time in the competitive world of stand-up comedy, with actionable steps and examples to guide you. When you don't know anybody in the scene like bookers or other comics, you just gotta get the courage and go visit an open mic night.
1. Open Mic Nights: Your First Step
Open mic nights are the proving ground for new comedians.
To get started, research local venues that host these events.
For example, The Laughing Skull Lounge in Atlanta has a weekly open mic night where new comedians can sign up online. Check their website for sign-up forms and rules. Typically, you’ll need to prepare a short set, around 5 minutes.
Actionable Tip: Attend a few open mic nights as an audience member to understand the format and style of the venue before performing. It helps to note what works well with the audience and how other comedians engage them.
MAKE SURE YOU MEMORIZE YOUR FIRST 5 MINUTE SET YOU WANT TO TRY AT AN OPEN MIC!
Later on you can refer to notes as you get more stage minutes under your belt, but you don't want to think you sucked because your jokes were bad when in reality you just didn't make eye contact with the audience.
Give yourself the best chance to succeed!
2. Networking with Local Comedy Clubs
Building relationships with local comedy club bookers can lead to stage time. Start by visiting clubs during less busy times and introduce yourself to the staff or, if possible, the booker.
Follow up with an email:
Subject: Comedian Interested in Performing at [Club Name]
Dear [Booker’s Name],
I recently visited [Club Name] and was impressed by how well the club ran and the quality of the comics. I’m an aspiring comedian, and here is a link to a 5 minute clip of mine. I would love the opportunity to contribute to your lineup one of these days. I can also help take photos for your social media.
Could we schedule a time to discuss any upcoming opportunities for new talent showcases or open mic nights? I am eager to bring my unique perspective to your stage and help grow your traffic.
Thank you for considering my request.
Best,
[Your Name]
3. Leverage Social Media
Use platforms like Instagram or TikTok to post clips of your performances, jokes, or comedic observations.
Engage with followers and other comedians by commenting on their posts and sharing relevant content. This visibility can lead to connections with bookers or invites to perform at other venues.
The more comedians you follow and comic profiles you engage with (like, comment) - the more the algorithm sees you as a comic and will try to push your content out when you upload it.
Example: Create a series of short, humorous videos related to your day job as an accountant, blending professional insights with comedy, and tag comedy clubs or festivals in your area.
4. Comedy Festivals and Contests
Research and apply to participate in comedy festivals and contests. For example, the San Francisco Comedy Competition is an annual event where newcomers can showcase their talent. Applications typically require a video submission of your performance, a biography, and an application fee.
Actionable Tip: Record several of your best performances and have them ready to submit for these opportunities. Tailor your application to highlight your unique background and perspective as an accountant turned comedian.
5. Collaborations and Hosting
Reach out to local businesses or community centers and propose a comedy night. Offer to host or perform, showcasing your initiative and talent. This not only gives you stage time but also demonstrates your ability to attract and entertain an audience.
Example: Contact a local coffee shop and offer to organize a weekly comedy evening. Coordinate with other local comedians to create a lineup, providing a platform for everyone involved.
6. Comedy Workshops and Classes
Taking classes can refine your skills and expand your network. Institutions like The Second City offer workshops in stand-up, writing, and improv. These classes often end with a showcase, giving you direct stage experience.
Actionable Tip: Choose workshops that culminate in a performance or showcase. This gives you a clear goal and a guaranteed opportunity to perform.
7. Persistence and Adaptability
The comedy industry values persistence. Keep refining your material based on audience reactions and feedback from peers. Regularly update your routine to stay relevant and engaging.
Actionable Tip: Record your performances and review them to identify what works and what doesn’t. Adjust your material accordingly and test it at your next open mic or performance.
8. Offer to Host Events
Offering to host events, such as charity fundraisers, trivia nights, or even corporate events, can provide valuable stage time and experience. It also puts you in front of diverse audiences, helping you refine your comedic style.
9. Develop a YouTube Channel
Starting a YouTube channel can serve multiple purposes.
It provides a platform to showcase your comedy, acts as a portfolio for booking agents and clubs, and helps you reach a global audience. Comics who spend the time to focus on how a YouTube channel can sustain and grow with a strategy and plan can do very well.
Case in point:
Regularly posting your stand-up routines, sketches, or comedic vlogs can also improve your performance skills.
10. Help the Host of Existing Shows
People back out of shows all the time. You want to be around when the host has an open slot and needs to fill it.
Don't just sit around at the open mic.
You can try the following to help contribute to a open mic show:
Offer to help move tables and chairs
Watch other comedians,
Take photos,
Assist with getting the crowd inside from outside,
And many other ways to make the event successful.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get stage time as a new comedian is key to surviving and thriving in this industry.
By strategically pursuing open mic nights, building connections, leveraging social media, participating in festivals, and continually refining your craft, you'll gain the stage time you need to develop your comedic voice.
Keep pushing boundaries, and remember: every great comedian was once a beginner looking for that first break.