Advice for Beginners
- Don't go over your time limit
- Don't hit on other performers or venue staff
- Don't suck
- Start with your best joke. End with your 2nd-best joke
- Once you are strong: do whatever you want
- Don't worry about sucking
Usually, people ask me the same questions about comedy:
Why?
Why do you do this? Why are you talking to me?But the real question they should ask is:
How?
How do you do it? How do you do? Howdy doody?The answer is simple. Go to open mics, tell your jokes, and keep practicing.
It's just like learning to ride a bicycle. You have to do it alone, and it's great if your parents will help.
Open mics are the gateway drug to standup comedy. They are how you test your material, hone your chops, and get comfortable in front of real life audiences who are drunk.
So then the next question becomes: Where?
How Where Do I Find a Comedy Open Mic?
Open mics happen in bars and showrooms all over. Open mics come and go frequently, and best way to find where the mics are currently is to find some local comedians and ASK! Most comedians are happy to talk to you about how to get started, especially in person, after a show that you just watched.
Here is a calendar of ongoing open mics in the Seattle area (including Tacoma and Everett). It is not complete but it is up to date as of January, 2024
Key Things to Expect
There will be a signup sheet, or else an online signup process.
Do your research!
If you can't find any information, just show up and hope there's a signup list.
Get there early!
There will be a time limit.
Every show has a time limit, so every performer has a time limit.
Stick to your set list and watch for the light.
Usually, the light means you have 1 minute left, but pay attention to the host's instructions.
Do not exceed your time limit.
Bookers don't want to work with people who can't finish on time.
You'll make new friends.
Open mic nights are a great opportunity to meet other comedians and audience members.
Do not shit where you eat.
Translation: don't fuck other comics, don't fuck over other comics, and don't fuck with the regulars/staff.
How Can I Prepare for My First Open Mic?
Make sure you have a set list that you can finish within your time limit.
Add time for laughs. Be generous with your time estimates.
Stick to your comfort zone.
It's always best to start off by performing jokes that you're comfortable with.
Practice, practice, practice.
The more you practice, the better you'll be able to gauge how well your jokes are landing.
Be prepared for feedback.
Audiences have an annoying habit of disagreeing with comedians about what they think is "funny."
Have fun!