Ideas To Prepare For An Open Mic Night

In collaboration with @lovingkindnesscomedy

Preview

1. Give street comedy a test run.

Much lower stakes.

2. Speak to an established comedian, like @lovingkindnesscomedy

Asking for advice from people who've done what you want to do and been where you want to be is a smart move and will accelerate your growth and learning.

3. Know what you're getting into.

Attend several open mic nights so you can become familiar with them. The more familiar you are, the less uncomfortable you'll be when it's your turn.

4. Ask friends and family to attend and cheer you on.

The support will make a difference in your experience.

5. Get there early

It will make you more comfortable with the venue, and you can spot things to joke about. Talk with the staff.

6. Write down a list of key words to memorize your set

And create visual associations in your mind to remember it easily. Go through it in your mind a few times to make sure you've memorized it.

7. Don't stick to a precise script

Some comedians will disagree on this, but I believe most comics benefit from not reciting their set word for word. If you're a one-liner comic, maybe this doesn't apply.

8. Look at the audience in the eyes

You're talking to them, not at them.

9. Remember they want you to do well

Don't assume they're going to hate you if you bomb. They're not excitedly waiting to judge you.

10. It doesn't matter

If you're anxious, remember that none of this matters. It's just an open mic (although I would apply this to shows as well). You're just doing something cool and having fun.

Mkhill1212