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I want to do an open mic
Whether you're a beginner testing material or an experienced comic looking for stage time, this guide covers everything you need to get those reps in.
What Is Open Mic Comedy?
Open mic comedy nights are events where anyone can sign up to perform a set on stage.
They're called "open" because entry is open to all skill levels from beginners, amateurs, and seasoned performers all share the stage. Each room will have its own rules and phrasing though, so check them out before you go
How it works: Performers sign up (Again check with the room how it works, but generally speaking you sign up on the night), then you may get picked or allotted a certain amount of time to perform.
You might get lucky and have an audience but you'll often be performing to a mostly comics.
Open Mic vs. Booked Shows: What's the Difference?
Open mics are normally sign up on the night. If you're a beginner these are the rooms you'll look into first.
Booked shows are generally booked in advance.
Before you go to a show, even if it's called "Open mic Mondays" look into how the mic is booked, who it is for, how often it runs. The term open mic and booked are different from Country to country as well from room to room, so it's vital you do your diligence.
Tips for Open Mics
1. Arrive early.
Get there before the show starts, this is especially important if the sign-up is based on the order you came in. This gives you time to settle in, network with other comics.
2. Watch the light.
Know when your time is up and respect it. A host will usually give you a light or signal as a warning that you only have x amount of time left, and then a following light to tell you your past your time. Get off when you see it.
3. Write your own material
Don't steal other comedians' jokes. It's the cardinal sin of comedy. You'll get called out. Write your own material based on your observations and stories.
3. Come prepared
Don't turn up and waste time, people will notice this. Just come prepared, no one is expecting you to crush it but if you turn up and just go "Ah man I've got nothing" it'll reflect poorly.
3. Network
Other comedians will get you gigs, you need to also learn about the scene. Use the open mics to network
4. Record your set.
Use your phone to record and watch it back. You'll notice things you can't feel in the moment. It's one of the fastest ways to improve.
You're ready
You don't need to prep for months, buy courses, or join groups just to do an open mic.
One night on stage will teach you more than years of overthinking. Nerves are normal, but you're the only thing holding yourself back. Find a local open mic this week and just show up.
Where to find an open mic?
Google "Open mic comedy X" X is your cities name. If you do not see any results google a major city that is near you, you'll find online groups for the area you are in. You can also do this on Instagram as well.
This site holds some cities too if you head to the gig directory.
When you go to a gig, ask the other comedians about where to find gigs, often someone in the scene will be keeping a sheet or a list of mics.
Resources
Thousands of comedians are learning and sharing advice. Here's some articles that might help
Ralphie May: Stand-up Master Class