How to Book Jobs as a Stand-Up Comedian
Success as a comedian isn't just about standing up in a room and telling jokes while gigs are thrown at you; you have to work at finding jobs to help you along. Much like being in a band, you must get out there and network with anyone in the industry that you can. You must start at the bottom at open mics and work your way up to club tours. Once you gain a following, you'll need to hire a manager to book gigs for you. This person will get you into the best clubs possible and work with promoters to help you appear in as many places as possible.
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Instructions
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Study the art of comedy. Though it may feel like it comes naturally, you want to assure your comedy falls into a genre. Standup genres include one liners, themed, props or character, story, rant and impression comedy. Once you choose your genre you can gain a fan following. Take a class and talk with other comedians who are in the same genre so you can learn tips such as the best comedy clubs for your genre.
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Visit open mic nights in your city at comedy clubs. Club owners can see your talent first-hand this way and may book you on the spot. Talent agents also frequent these bars to find the next "big thing."
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Make a press kit to send to managers, agents and clubs. A press kit includes samples of your routine, a head shot, biography and contact information. Send this kit to anyone you know in the industry to get your name circulating to those who can impact your career. Invite agents and managers to see you perform. Also send the kit to club owners in major cities seeking talent for their clubs.
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Ask friends in your network to book you as an opener for their performances. The larger following they have, the more beneficial opening for them is to you. It exposes your act to a new crowd while having the support of those close to you.
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