So, do you think making a few jokes here, and there can make you a professional comedian? Well, hate to disappoint as there’s a lot more you need to do when it comes to having comedy as your career. One of the things that you need to understand is that being a comedian isn’t an easy job. There’s a lot that needs to be done and including the competition you’re facing and collaborators. Opportunity and hard work both go hand in hand when it comes to making a career out of comedy. If you’re wondering how to jump on the bandwagon and kickstart your career as a comedian, then this blog is for you:
Start with a Paper and Pen
When it comes to comedy, it’s all about the content and how creative you are with it. The second most important thing is life experiences and how you use humor in real-life situations. Keep a notebook with yourself if you’re traveling, with friends, or even when you’re at home. Inspiration can strike at any moment, and you don’t want to waste that! Scribbling down your thoughts and turning them into amazing jokes should be your first step in your comedy career.
The Role of Extracurriculars
Chances are you’re in college, if not then that’s okay as well. The truth behind a comedy career is that you need to go for extracurricular activities. If your school has an improv class or the local bar has a few standup comedy shows then do attend them. It will help you immensely in terms of gaining confidence on stage and how interacting with your audience. It’s all about being in the right crowd; when comedy lovers surround you, then chances are you’ll get inspired.
Writing Skills
We always emphasize the fact that writing skills matter immensely in comedy. Excellent writing skills, coupled with critical thinking, produce fantastic humor which sells. If you think you lack writing skills, then I suggest taking a creative writing course that can help you identify how to utilize your comedy skills fully.
Write and Test It
Write a 3-5 minute set of standup comedy and practice it numerous times to refine it each time. When you’re done refining your content, then you need to test it in an open mic. So, most people don’t know where exactly to find an open mic slot. Well, you’ll need to find open mic positions in your city. Whether an open mic is being held in your college or a local restaurant, you need to grab the chance and test out your set.
Start Performing
This one is tough, and it might take a lot of time for you to secure a spot where you can perform in a show. The proper approach to getting a show would be through marketing yourself by creating short videos on YouTube or Facebook. Generate some noise, and you’ll be heard!
Starting a career in comedy can be a challenging but rewarding journey. By following the six steps outlined in this guide, you can begin to hone your skills, build your confidence, and connect with audiences. Remember that success in comedy requires hard work, dedication, and persistence. Don’t be afraid to take risks, learn from your mistakes, and keep pushing yourself to improve. With time and effort, you can turn your passion for comedy into a fulfilling career. So go out there and make them laugh!