The modern age has paved the way for comedians to showcase their talent not just on stages and bars but now, even online. If you’re prepping for your first (or fiftieth) online comedy open mic, this guide is for you. Let’s laugh our way to the top with some indispensable tips!
1. Prepping Your Material: Before you even think of going online, ensure you have your material ready. Remember, open mics are primarily for performing and testing new jokes – not for writing them on the spot. Keep your content fresh, relatable, and organized. If you find yourself stuck or want to refine your writing, give Joke Zoom’s Comedy Boot Camp Course a shot. You’ll thank yourself when you get those hearty laughs!
2. Timing Is Everything: Especially if you’re attending a global event, being aware of time zones can be the difference between hitting the stage or missing your spot. Using New York time as a reference can be helpful. Always sign up in advance, if required, and set reminders. You wouldn’t want to miss your big shot!
3. Rehearse, Rehearse, Rehearse: Rehearsing isn’t just about reciting your jokes but understanding the rhythm, intonation, and pauses – this can make or break a joke. Create a checklist or an agenda, detailing your routine. Are you delivering five minutes of content? Trying out new jokes? Knowing what’s next helps maintain your flow, ensuring you don’t fumble during the real deal.
4. Professionalism is Key: Treat your online open mic with the respect and gravitas of a high-stakes gig. This is your platform, whether you’re performing to five people or five hundred. Respect the stage, the time, and most importantly, your fellow performers. Do not, under any circumstances, interrupt when it’s not your turn. Imagine performing for the Queen or at the Apollo; you’ve got to keep the standards high!
5. Recording Your Set: Having a record of your performance can be a goldmine for improvement. If allowed, use an audio recorder (or even your smartphone) to record only YOUR set. Not only is recording others without consent unethical and inappropriate, but it could also get you in legal trouble. Your set is your prime focus. Later, review your recording, noting points of success, areas of improvement, and audience reactions.
6. Post-Performance Analysis: Once your set is done and dusted, it’s time for introspection. With your recorded set as a reference, pinpoint areas where you improvised. Did that improvisation work? How were the audience reactions? Did you fumble anywhere? Remember, each performance, good or bad, is a learning opportunity. Make the most of it!
Bonus Tip: Technology Check! Before diving headfirst into the virtual comedy world, ensure your tech is up to the mark. A stable internet connection, a clear microphone, and a well-lit environment can make all the difference. The last thing you want is to drop out mid-joke or be unintelligible to your audience. Run a tech check a few hours before your slot.
In conclusion, an online comedy open mic can be an exciting and rewarding platform for budding comedians. With the right preparation, attitude, and post-performance review, you can refine your craft and truly shine. Remember, the goal isn’t just to get laughs, but to continually improve and refine your comedic voice. So, break a leg out there and let those laughs roll in!
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Rob Cioffi is a New York-based stand-up comedian and comedy coach. Performing since 2006, Rob founded Joke Zoom in 2020 – an online community for comedy creators. With over 15 years of experience, Rob provides coaching and resources to help comedians develop their craft. Learn more at https://JokeZoom.com.