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So you think you’re funny…
Here are my tips for getting started in standup comedy.
First off, expect failure. Being funny onstage isn’t the same as being funny in real life. Every comedian fails, especially when they’re first starting or trying out new material. Open mics are basically a rehearsal you have to do in front of people.
Watch a wide variety of performers. Almost anything can be incorporated into standup: characters, storytelling, music, props, crowdwork, etc. It’s helpful to know what’s already out there to help inspire you.
Experiment. I like to think of open mics less as a performance and more as a science experiment. You can test all sorts of things. Am I a one-liner comedian? Should I use a musical instrument? How about impressions? Does this joke work in front of this type of audience? Does the wording work better this way? What if I make the joke shorter? What if I say it with a different emotion?
I would avoid punching down towards groups you’re not a part of, especially when you’re first starting out. I’d also avoid saying things just for shock value when you’re first starting, to avoid making a bad first impression.
Be friendly with other comedians and also wary. Many comedians are delightful to hang out with, but there are also many who turn out to be abusers or just not great people.
