Author Archive: DSchwensen

Bomb Alert! An Onstage Survival Guide

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Hi Dave – What should you do if no one is laughing or if you realize that you are starting to bomb? – A.B.

Hey A.B. – Duck and cover.

On stage excitement!

Okay, that’s probably not the answer you were looking for. So, here’s another one that I’ve seen actually work.

But first, a quick definition.

Some readers may not know exactly what bombing means. It’s when you’re on stage doing your best to entertain — whether you’re a comedian or a humorous speaker — and absolutely nothing is working. The audience isn’t laughing, you start to panic, you begin to sweat, and you’re convinced everyone in the room hates you.

That’s Bombing 101.

And if you ever get used to it, you’re in the wrong business. I don’t know a single comedian who hasn’t gone through it. And if one claims they haven’t, they’re just playing a joke on you.

The dedicated comics never let bombing stop them. But the smart ones use it as a learning experience – usually discovering what not to do next time.

In my book Comedy FAQs and Answers, I talked with comedian George Wallace about this. Early in his career, he performed under the stage name The Reverend George Wallace and used a phone book as his “Bible.” The bit killed in New York City – until his first road gig in upstate New York.

The audience hated it.

He was booked for an hour, and he did an hour, but it was a mega-ton bomb. Driving home, he felt so bad he actually thought about steering off a bridge.

But that night became a turning point. He swore he’d never let that happen again. He rethought everything about his act and his stage persona. The “Reverend” was gone — so was the phone book. He decided that if he was having fun on stage, the audience would too.

And if the audience is having fun, you’re not bombing.

If you’ve ever seen George Wallace perform, you know what I mean. The man is practically immune to bombing.

How to Turn It Around – In Real Time

So, what should you do when it’s happening to you?

Here’s a proven technique I’ve seen big-name comics use to turn a tough crowd around: talk TO and WITH the audience.

Seriously — I’ve seen it more times than I can count. When your material isn’t connecting, stop pushing it. Put the script aside for a moment and start engaging the people in front of you.

A Story from The Improv

When I was scheduling comics for the Hollywood Improv, one of our most reliable — and funniest – acts had a rare off night. His material was top-notch, but for whatever reason, the audience just wasn’t responding.

To my surprise, he did something I’d never seen him do. He took the microphone out of the stand, walked to the front of the stage, and started talking directly to the audience.

He kept it casual: “Where are you from?” “What do you do for a living?”

Simple questions that led to funny exchanges and real conversation.

Once the audience was relaxed and engaged, he stepped back, put the mic in the stand, and went back to his material. This time, they loved him. They got the jokes, laughed hard, and he walked off to huge applause.

Why It Worked

When I asked him about it later, he reminded me that most comedians start out as MCs – hosting shows, introducing acts, and learning how to warm up a crowd. The MC’s job is to get the audience laughing and involved.

And the best way to do that? Talk TO and WITH them.

It’s a skill every comic should learn early – one that can save you in a tough room. I saw comedians use this technique not only in Los Angeles, but also when I managed The Improv clubs in New York and Cleveland. It’s not luck or instinct – it’s a learned survival tool.

The Bottom Line

When you feel the energy dropping or your set slipping away, stop talking at the audience and start talking with them.

It’s the quickest way to rebuild the connection – and remind everyone, including yourself, that this is supposed to be fun.

And if that doesn’t work? Well, there’s always the old “duck and cover” method.

Thanks for reading and as always – keep laughing!

For details (and free 10-minute consultation) visit Private Coaching.

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Open Mics for Corporate Comedians

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Hey Dave – Last week you talked about ‘what is corporate comedy material.’ I would also like to learn about getting into doing comedy and humorous keynotes at corporate events. – E.M.

Not a late-night open mic audience!

Hey E.M. – Let’s pick up where we left off. Last time, I talked about the kind of material comedians need to develop to get hired for corporate events. But the bigger question is: how and where do you develop that kind of act?

Here’s the challenge: the type of material you’ll need—G to PG (max) and often with a business-related angle—doesn’t always work in the usual late-night, beer-soaked open mics. But that doesn’t matter, because those crowds aren’t your audience anyway.

Your real audience consists of business owners and event planners, and you’ll find them at morning, afternoon, and evening business or association meetings. Instead of bars at midnight, look for stage time at Rotary breakfasts, Knights of Columbus luncheons, and College Club dinners—just to name a few. Almost every town has groups like these, and they’re always looking for speakers or entertainers.

Bonus incentive!

These slots usually run anywhere from five to twenty minutes—often slotted between the entrée and dessert.

Here’s the key: treat these meetings like open mics. Don’t expect to get paid (at least not at first). The magic word for getting these spots is FREE. Offer to do a clean five-minute comedy set before their featured speaker, and you’re far less likely to hear the other magic word in comedy: NO.

In my own experience, I was almost never turned down. The only exception was a 90-year-old Rotary member in the Midwest who thought his club wasn’t interested in anything except insurance, fertilizer—or both. When I explained I spoke on humor and creativity, he sounded ready to have me arrested for being anti-American. I politely thanked him, called another Rotary club, said the word FREE, and got booked right away.

As you continue writing and testing material that works in this environment, aim for longer sets—up to the typical 20-minute featured program. From my experience, most organizers welcome a variety of speakers. After all, you can’t have insurance, fertilizer, or a combo of both every single week.

After doing these enough times—and enjoying more than my fair share of free breakfasts, lunches, and dinners—I had built a solid corporate program. From there, it was a matter of networking and promoting, and before long, I was booking paid gigs. That never would’ve happened if I had tried to shape my corporate act at late-night open mics.

So, if you’re serious about the corporate market, this is a proven way to get started. And, by the way, the advice is FREE. If you can make an audience laugh at 7:30 in the morning over scrambled eggs and coffee, you’ve got a real shot at making it in the corporate comedy and keynote world.

Thanks for reading and as always – keep laughing!

For details (and free 10-minute consultation) visit Private Coaching.

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What Is Considered Corporate Comedy Material?

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Hi Dave – You’ve talked about working in the corporate market as a comedian or humorous speaker. What is considered corporate comedy material and what is not? – B.E.

Living on the edge?

Hey B.E. – That’s a great question, and honestly, one I don’t hear in such a general way. Usually it’s more specific, like “Is this particular joke okay for a corporate show?” But since you asked broadly, I’ll give you the broad answer first.

When it comes to corporate work, the golden rule is simple: work clean. I’ve said it many times before, and I’ll keep saying it because it’s true.

There’s been some debate on social media about whether dropping F-bombs will ever become acceptable at corporate functions. My opinion? The people saying that are a little F-bombed themselves. It’s not happening now, and it won’t anytime soon. Sure, there may be rare exceptions with an “edgy” company (think Comedy Central), but if you want steady work in the corporate market, clean material is the standard. That means no F-bombs, and no routines where the F-bomb is the punchline.

Now, let’s get into what corporate audiences do look for. A lot depends on the event and its theme.

Follow the rules.

From my experience as both a booking agent and a corporate speaker:

  • Comedians are often hired for holiday parties, retirement banquets, and award ceremonies. The material can cover almost anything—marriage, kids, sports, current events—as long as it’s clean and fits the mood. But it’s important to know the theme. If it’s a holiday party, the client might want some holiday references mixed in. At a retirement banquet, comics who can roast, ad-lib, and personalize a few jokes usually do well. The key is to keep the laughs lighthearted—no embarrassment, no hurt feelings.
  • Humorous speakers are different. They’re brought in for their message—stress relief, communication, networking, leadership, tech training, you name it. With humor, they become entertaining as well as informative. These speakers might give keynotes, run breakout sessions, or even full-day training workshops. Their material comes directly from their area of expertise, with comedy woven in to keep the audience engaged.

So, to put it simply:

  • Comedians = entertainment. Be funny, be clean, and tie in the event’s theme when needed.
  • Humorous speakers = infotainment. Deliver useful content, but with humor so it sticks.

That’s the general answer to your general question, B.E. If you’re serious about working the corporate market, start by keeping your act clean, know the event’s theme, and always make sure the CEO (or whoever signs the check) leaves happy.

Thanks for reading and as always – keep laughing!

For details about September – October 2025 online comedy workshops check out this LINK

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Looking for stage time

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Hey Dave – I have performed terribly at three open-mics in Kentucky. Could you point me in the direction of a “lower end” establishment in Ohio? I’m looking for a place that does not require you to bring five friends. I don’t know five people. Thanks, J.

Come’on in – please!!

Hey J – Thanks for thinking of me when it comes to “lower end” establishments. Maybe I should start calling this the Blue Collar Comedy Column – but let’s not go there. Instead of chasing a “higher end” reputation, let’s focus on what you really need: stage time.

First, about the whole bring-five-friends thing…

Open mics that aren’t at established comedy clubs tend to come and go quickly. Most are in bars, restaurants, or small venues. If the owner is making money on comedy night, it keeps going. If not, they swap the mic for a giant TV and start packing the place for football season.

That’s why you see so many “bringer” shows. It’s a simple business deal:

  • You bring paying customers.
  • They give you stage time to get experience and improve.

From their perspective, everybody wins.

Stage time!

Now, back when I started in this crazy business, we performed at open-mics in NYC that always had an audience – no bringer requirement. But times have changed. Today, getting stage time often means convincing friends to pay a cover and buy a couple drinks.

Chris Murphy, a comedy coach in NYC, shared some great tips on beating the bringer system in my book Comedy FAQs and Answers. Check your library or grab a copy online if you want the full story.

But let’s get back to your real question – where to find open-mics.

Here’s the deal: open-mic lists get outdated fast. I used to hand them out in my workshops, but by the next session, half the places had shut down or switched to karaoke. The smarter approach is:

  1. Research – Google comedy clubs in your area (Ohio in your case). Most legit clubs post open-mic info on their websites because it’s free promotion.
  2. Call – If there’s no info online, call the club. You’ll probably talk to a staffer, not the owner, so don’t worry about annoying the wrong person. Fun fact: many people answering phones at comedy clubs are aspiring comics themselves.

Even if the club doesn’t have an open mic, ask if they know of any. Comics tend to know where stage time is happening.

Once you find one open-mic, go there. Perform, hang out, and start talking to other comics. That’s networking – and it’s the real key to finding stage time. Comics share info, recommend each other, and build local comedy scenes together.

A few tips:

  • Be supportive. Watch other comics. Don’t just do your set and leave.
  • Share open-mic info when you find it.
  • Avoid being “that guy” who only takes and never gives back.

And yes, you’ll meet a few jerks along the way. Every business has them. Ignore the negativity and focus on improving and building connections.

The bottom line:
Once you are part of a local comedy scene, you’ll hear about open-mics before they’re even posted online. The more supportive you are, the more stage time opportunities will come your way.

Simple? From what I’ve seen, it usually is.

Thanks for reading and as always – keep laughing!

For details about September 2025 stand-up comedy workshop at The Cleveland Funny Bone check out this LINK!

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Corporate Comedy: Think big but start small

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Hi Dave – I just joined your email list. I do humor and did my first two stand-up open mics… rough crowd. Someone threw a cup of ice at one of the other comedians. My goal: to get some gigs entertaining at travel conferences. I have a bunch of funny travel stories. Any idea who I approach? A booking agent? I’m new to this, so any thoughts are appreciated. – R.R.

Traveling for work!

Hey R.R. – Only one cup of ice and you call that a rough crowd? Welcome to open mics. No wonder you’re aiming for conferences and corporate gigs. At those, the worst you’ll get is an icy stare if you’re not funny.

Here’s the thing: two open mics is a start, but you’ll need a lot more stage time to develop timing, delivery, and the ability to dodge both ice cubes and awkward silence. That only comes from performing – over and over.

Since you want to specialize in funny travel stories, focus now on two things:

  1. Writing – Create material that you find interesting. If it doesn’t grab you, it won’t grab the audience.
  2. Short sets – Start with five minutes. Think of it like writing a book: one chapter at a time. Use “color” – vivid descriptions – to take the audience on the trip with you. And make it funny.

Once you’ve got that five minutes, try it live:

  • Don’t avoid traditional open-mics, but search out stage opportunities with “real” audiences (and not just other comedians waiting their turns to go on stage).
  • Offer to speak for free at local business groups, networking breakfasts, luncheons, or special interest clubs. These are the “open mics” of the corporate world.

Work for free?

Why free?

Because you’re practicing, and they’re doing you the favor by giving you an audience. Keep it squeaky clean – G-rated – because in the corporate market, that’s the only way in.

When that first five minutes works, write another. Soon you’ll have ten… then fifteen… then a full conference-ready set.

Now – about booking agents.

Don’t call them yet. They need proven, audience-tested acts. You’ll know you’re ready when free gigs turn into paid ones – when people in the audience hand you their card and say, “Are you available for our event?” That’s when you start quoting fees and agents start calling you.

Bottom line:

  • Think big, start small.
  • Write, perform, adjust, repeat.
  • Build a proven act before chasing agents.

When the offers start rolling in, you’ll be ready to ask the magic question:

“Where, when, and how much are you gonna pay me?”

*

Thanks for reading and as always – keep laughing!

For details about September 2025 stand-up comedy workshop at The Cleveland Funny Bone check out this LINK!

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For comments, questions about workshops and coaching please email – Dave@TheComedyBook.com

Always good to ask before you audition

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Hey Dave – I have a big audition coming up. I’m not going to have any profanity in my (comedy) set, but I’m thinking of having a cleaner version and another one that is a bit edgier. I’m thinking of asking the panel of judges what type of set they want before I perform. Do you think this is a good idea? Thanks – DS

Hey DS,

What’s the question?

Absolutely! I think it’s a smart move to ask the judges—or any talent booker—about any content or language restrictions before you perform. In fact, I emphasize this in my workshops for a couple of important reasons:

  1. It shows professionalism – Being able to adjust your material based on the audience is key. Talent bookers appreciate that because it’s a sign you understand the business side of things.
  2. It gives you an edge over the competition – As much as I love talking about the supportive nature of the comedy community, let’s face it: not everyone can be hired. To stand out at showcases, you need to tailor your performance to the audience. And yes, comedy is a business, so that’s an important part of it.

For instance, let’s say there are only five spots available for a television show, but plenty of comics auditioning. Sure, being funny is crucial, but assuming everyone is equally funny and knows the right people, the deciding factor often comes down to whether you can adapt your set for the audience.

You wouldn’t perform the same set on The Disney Channel that you would on a Comedy Central Roast, right?

Here’s another example:

Did she really say that?

If you’re auditioning for a cruise ship gig, you wouldn’t walk on stage and start dropping F-bombs or overshare about your personal life. A lot of the onboard comedy shows are family-friendly—early evening performances with kids in the audience—and then later, after the kids are asleep, the adult shows take over. But if you can’t show you can adapt to both audiences, you likely won’t get the gig.

So, how would you know these nuances if you’ve never been on a cruise ship or worked in that environment? That’s where asking beforehand comes in handy.

Of course, if you’ve already found your comedy voice and certain venues aren’t a fit, that’s totally fine! I’m not saying you should always work clean. But if you know your material wouldn’t be acceptable for a specific gig (say, a family show), you’re not only wasting your time, but also taking an opportunity away from another comic who’d be a better fit for that audience.

Another example: when I booked comics for A&E’s An Evening at the Improv, we had specific guidelines for the performances. We’d go over them with the comics before the taping:

  1. Avoid making fun of God or religion – Our highest ratings were in The Bible Belt, and we didn’t want to risk alienating that audience. Plus, higher ratings bring in sponsors, so it’s good business.
  2. No bashing specific products – We couldn’t afford lawsuits, so no dissing a car brand or fast-food chain. Business, once again!
  3. Song parodies were limited – We had a strict 18-second rule to avoid paying song royalties for TV broadcasts.

So, what happened if a comic didn’t follow these rules?

If you watch reruns, you might notice some comics are only on-screen for 4 or 5 minutes instead of the usual 7. Why? They didn’t follow the guidelines, and that gets edited out. It’s an easy fix in the editing room, or even before the performance in the case of live auditions.

When it comes to working clubs, it’s almost always possible to check with the talent booker beforehand to ask if there are any material restrictions. They should be upfront with you because they know their audience best.

The goal for any talent booker is to find performers who can connect with their venue’s audience. This applies to comedy contests too, since the bigger business goal is to turn first-time audience members into repeat customers. And to figure out what works for their audience? You’ve got to ask.

Thanks for reading and as always – keep laughing!

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Seeking advice for a “stuck” comedy career

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Hi Dave – I’m not so sure stand-up is for me. I think I may be better suited for improv acting such as The Groundlings, Second City, etc… I’ve always been told I’m funny and animated but am not so sure how to focus or direct it. I am interested in the profession / business and think I would enjoy it. However, I feel stuck! How do I know if stand-up is for me? What advice do you have as to getting in touch with my creativity and directing it in the right way / format? Any advice would be very helpful, welcomed and appreciated. Thanks so much. Best – C.H.

Feeling stuck?

Hey C.H. – You’re definitely not alone — a lot of people feel “stuck” when trying to figure out where their creativity fits best, especially in a field like comedy.

The truth is, the only way to really know if stand-up, improv, or anything else is right for you is to try it. Since you mentioned being drawn to improv groups like The Groundlings or Second City, that might be a good starting point. Most reputable improv theaters offer classes, and those classes are designed to help you channel your natural energy, timing, and personality into something structured and performance ready.

Some performers do both stand-up and improv, but most tend to gravitate toward the one that fits their style and personality. Improv is collaborative — working as part of a team. Stand-up is solo, where you’re in full control of the writing and performance. Neither is “better” — it’s about what suits you.

Learn the basics!

Taking a class is an excellent way to experiment without the pressure of an audience or audition. It gives you a safe space to explore, get feedback, and see what feels right. A good coach or instructor will not only teach you the basics but also give you an understanding of the business and help you shape your raw creativity into something focused.

Here’s why that matters:

When I managed the monthly auditions at the NYC Improv, it was a lottery system — anyone could draw a number and get three minutes on stage. No experience required. Some people had prepared and tested their material. Others had never been in front of an audience, had no guidance, and no idea what to expect. And it always showed.

Two examples I’ll never forget:

One woman brought a roll of receipt paper on stage — like the kind you’d find in a cash register — and had written jokes on it. She’d read one into the mic, get no laughs, rip it off, throw it on the stage, and say, “Well, that didn’t work.” Repeat. It was painful to watch — but kind of hilarious in hindsight.

Another guy auditioned with a female mannequin dressed in lingerie. He set it on a stool, never acknowledged it, told a few bad jokes to uncomfortable silence, picked up the mannequin, and walked off into the night. Never saw him again.

Would they have done that if they’d taken a class or had some coaching? Maybe. But more likely, they would’ve had better instincts and more professional judgment.

So, my advice? If you’re interested in comedy — any form of it — and feel unsure where to start, take a class. It can open doors, sharpen your instincts, and help you figure out whether this is the right creative path for you. And even if it’s not, it’s still a fun and valuable experience that gets you unstuck and moving forward.

Thanks for reading and as always – keep laughing!

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For comments, questions about workshops and coaching please email – Dave@TheComedyBook.com

Finding stage time in Los Angeles

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Hey Dave – I won a contest for a trip to Los Angeles to appear in a commercial. Unfortunately, since I’m not in SAG-AFTRA (Actors Guild), I’m being buried in the background as an extra. I’m pretty stoked about the trip though. I’m hoping to hit one of the popular comedy clubs in Hollywood and see if they’ll let me do a guest set. I’m wondering if you have any recommendations. I’ll be there next week for six days. – S.

LA – where dreams can come true!

Hey S. – First, congratulations! Winning a contest for a trip to L.A. is very cool, even if they’re burying you in the background since you’re not in the actor’s union. Consider it motivation to get that SAG-AFTRA card — though, to be honest, I had mine for years and still got buried in the background plenty of times.

Here’s the scoop — and, of course, your experience might be different:

Unless you’re already a well-known or semi-known headliner or feature with credits and contacts who can vouch for you, it’s extremely tough to get stage time at the popular Hollywood clubs when you’re just in town for a week. The local comics have invested years hanging out, showcasing, networking, taking workshops, bringing paying audiences (“bringer shows”), and doing whatever it takes to get seen.

The bookers at clubs like The Improv, The Comedy Store, and The Laugh Factory need to spend their time on comedians they can actually book again soon. Giving a visiting comic a guest spot doesn’t help them much — unless you have a strong recommendation from a trusted regular (and I mean a real regular, not someone who’s just emceeing Monday open-mic nights).

I’ve been the talent booker at The Improv in L.A., so trust me — I know how this works.

So, to be blunt: it’s very unlikely you’ll score stage time at the big-name clubs during your short trip. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be a productive comedy visit.

Here’s what I recommend:

 

👉 Hit the open mics. L.A. has tons of them — Google “Los Angeles comedy open mics 2025” and you’ll find plenty. In fact, I just did and here’s a LINK. Always check that they’re still running — venues open and close fast. Call ahead or reach out to whoever books it. Some shows may ask you to bring guests; some may squeeze you in because you’re from out of town. You won’t know unless you ask.

👉 Check out the big clubs anyway. Even if you can’t get on stage, you should absolutely go watch a show or two. See how the pros work. Weeknight shows are best for watching up-and-coming comics; weekends are more touristy and packed with big names you can see on TV. You’ll learn a lot just by observing.

👉 Use this trip for inspiration. Wherever you find comedians, you’ll find comics hunting for stage time. It’s part of the grind. So, treat this trip as a chance to network, see what’s working in a major scene, and maybe make a few connections you can build on down the line.

Enjoy the commercial shoot, make the most of your free time, and soak up everything you can. Who knows? Maybe your next visit will be with a SAG-AFTRA card — and a real spot on the lineup.

Break a leg and have a blast in L.A.!

Thanks for reading and as always – keep laughing!

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For comments, questions about workshops and coaching please email – Dave@TheComedyBook.com

Personalizing and Customizing Performances for Corporate Events

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Hi Dave – Can you give us a few examples of how to work event themes into your material for a corporate gig? What is the process like? – MD

Hey MD – When it comes to performing at corporate events, I’ve always believed that personalizing your act or presentation to fit the audience and occasion is essential. It’s not just something I do – major entertainers do it too.

How did they know that?

For example, several years ago, my cousin attended a corporate event in Florida where Jay Leno was the surprise performer. Having Leno on the bill was impressive on its own, but what really elevated the experience was when he mentioned the company by name and even referenced a few of the executives in the audience. Suddenly, it wasn’t just a great show – it felt like a one-of-a-kind event designed just for them. It’s one thing to hear a big-name comic joke about your city or current headlines, but when they reference your business or someone sitting a few tables away, it becomes unforgettable.

Event planners, executives, and employees love that kind of attention. It reflects well on the company, adds energy to the event, and makes the entire experience more engaging. A key way to make this happen? Performers who know their audience—and show it.

This is what we mean when we talk about personalizing or customizing material. Even if a comedian or speaker is delivering the same core act they performed a thousand miles away the night before, they’ll weave in references to the location, event theme, and audience members to make it feel special.

Think of it like this…

I’m a classic rock fan, so let’s use The Rolling Stones as an example. On tour, they stick to a fairly consistent setlist. That’s necessary – stage lighting, video screens, pyrotechnics, and choreography all depend on knowing exactly what song is coming next and where Mick and Keith will be standing when the fireworks go off.

It’s the same with big-name speakers or comedians. They have a program that works. Corporate clients are paying for that proven performance. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be tweaked to suit the crowd.

If the Stones are playing in Los Angeles, you can count on Mick kicking off with, “Hello Los Angeles—we’re rockin’ tonight!” Next week in New York, he’s not shouting out L.A.—he’s calling out New York City. A simple change, but one that creates connection.

Here’s another example from my own experience:

When I book comedians from New York or L.A. to perform near Cleveland, many of them aren’t familiar with the local scene. But the savvy ones will ask how they can relate to the crowd. One question I often hear:

“What’s a suburb near Cleveland that locals make fun of?”

No offense intended, but I usually tell them “Parma.” Then during their act, the comic tosses in a joke referencing Parma—and suddenly the audience feels like, this comic gets us.

Now here’s the truth: that comedian may not know anything else about Parma. But next week, in another town, they’ll ask the same question and swap in a different local punchline. That’s personalizing the performance – and it works. Audiences respond to it. Talent bookers and event planners love it.

What I Do for Corporate Bookings

When I book a comic or speaker for a corporate event, I include a short questionnaire with the contract. It’s the best way to learn about the audience and the company. Based on the answers, I’ll ask the performer to incorporate relevant material into their act.

Here are a few examples of what I might ask:

  • Is there a theme for the event?
  • What should we know about the city or event location?
  • Who are some key people in the company?
  • Are there any individuals you’d like us to spotlight – either for recognition or audience participation?
  • What are the company’s products or services?
  • Is there a rival company we can (respectfully) poke fun at – or one we should avoid mentioning?
  • Where do employees like to hang out after work?

The depth of personalization depends on how much the client wants to share – but even a few specific details can go a long way in creating a stronger audience connection.

What About Customization?

Earlier, I mentioned both personalizing and customizing. Here’s the difference:

  • Personalizing involves adjusting an existing act or presentation to reflect the audience or event.
  • Customizing means creating brand-new material specifically tailored to the client’s message, goals, or theme – and yes, it usually comes with a higher fee, because it involves extra time and effort.

A customized presentation starts with a deep dive. I’ll often interview the client, event planner, and key team members to learn about the company culture, industry challenges, and internal goals. The performer then builds their presentation around that material, while still staying true to the style that got them hired in the first place.

For example, if a speaker is known for expertise in communication, the client won’t ask them to build a presentation on accounting. Similarly, if they hire Carrot Top, they’re not going to request a prop-free, TED Talk-style set. You get what you’re paying for – but a smart performer can shape their material to suit your exact needs.

Just like The Rolling Stones wouldn’t skip Jumpin’ Jack Flash in concert, comedians and speakers know their core act is what the audience expects. But with the right information, they can personalize – or fully customize – it to turn a good performance into a great one.

And that’s what makes a corporate event truly memorable.

Thanks for reading and as always – keep laughing!

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For comments, questions about workshops and coaching please email – Dave@TheComedyBook.com

Comedy contests offer stage time

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Hi Dave – I did an open mic and saw the club was hosting another round of their “Best Amateur Comedian” contest. I want to enter, but not sure I’m ready. What’s the deal with comedy contests overall? – L.P.

More stage time!

Hey L.P. – Here’s a big chunk of personal opinion. I like comedy contests in clubs for one simple reason – stage time. Otherwise, I’m not a big fan. Winners are usually decided by audience applause and the person who packs in the most friends (voters) will win. I’ve seen this happen over and over and can’t remember ever seeing the funniest comedian (another chunk of personal opinion) actually win one of these contests. Whoever can coax in the most paying customers will be awarded, “Funniest Comedian.”

Doesn’t seem fair – does it?

Of course, the club owners and management have no problem with this because they make money from paying customers. And you know what? I also have NO PROBLEM with that because it’s show BUSINESS and if the club doesn’t make money, then comedians have one less place to perform. That’s the business part that comedians and performers in general need to understand. So, from that point of view – I’m a BIG fan of comedy contests.

But since you’re a comedian, let’s stick with the comedian’s point of view…

There are other ways to decide contest winners. Similar to the format used on the various television talent shows there might be a panel of judges making the award-winning decision. I’m sure most comedians would deem that more of a fair competition when performing in front of a loaded audience, but then you need to impress the judges. Depending on what they personally enjoy (clean comedy, adult comedy, etc.…) this might compromise your comedy voice and material.

This is also true if you have to play by their rules.

But I still got on stage!

For instance, I’ve seen comedians disqualified from contests because they’ve accidentally dropped the F-Bomb (against the rules) or went 10 seconds over their allotted time – even though the only reason they couldn’t get through their set in the given amount of time was because of audience applause and laugh breaks. But you need to follow their specific contest rules and if you don’t – then you just blew it in front of the judges.

Again – doesn’t seem fair, does it? The losers will tell you that, while the winners will add the award to their resumes.

Here’s the real scoop about comedy contests.

A BIG name, BIG time comedy contest is a BIG deal and will open up BIG opportunities for the BIG winners.

Think BIG – like the winners of the almost-forgotten television show Last Comic Standing or contests associated with a major city or festival like Montreal, Boston, New York or San Francisco. Win one of those and you not only will be seen by many important entertainment industry movers and shakers, but you could even wind up with your own sitcom.

No BS – I’ve seen it happen.

Of course there are always two sides to everything. Some of the best comedians I’ve worked with and respect the most never won a local comedy contest. And you know what? I don’t think any of them really care. They were simply dedicated to being good comedians and losing a contest never stopped them from working toward their goal. They also would never have considered changing who they are on stage or what language they use, and instead develop material that the judges would approve of next time.

That’s not why they got into the biz in the first place.

I’ll also make an assumption and say that during the early days of their careers they might have entered a local contest or two. But I’m sure they only did it for the same reason I’ll tell you to do it – stage time. I remember a few comics at the NYC Improv going to other clubs for contests and not even staying to see who won. That wasn’t important – getting on stage was.

Any time you have an opportunity to get on stage and work on your act, grab it and use it to your advantage. As you should know, improving as a comedian (humorous speaker or performer in general) can only happen through performing experience. And you know what comedy contests offer?

STAGE TIME.

Yeah, they may also offer cash prizes and more stage time, so of course you want to win to reap those benefits. But if you don’t, there’s no reason to sweat it or feel bad.

By the way, that’s why I’m not a big fan of comedy contests. Not everyone starts out in the business with a thick skin. That has to be developed if you ever plan to be serious about a comedy career. Newer comedians might put too much weight behind a comedy contest and feel if they don’t win, they’re not talented. No – it just means you didn’t bring enough friends, didn’t cater to the judge’s sense of humor, or haven’t had enough stage experience. There are no short cuts – sorry.

But you still win because you get stage time. So, contests are good for that reason.

If you win the contest – that’s great! I hope it leads to more stage time. But if you don’t…

Like I’ve mentioned, a lot of top comedians never won a contest and never lost any sleep over it. They took advantage of the experience on stage and used it to become better comedians.

So go ahead – enter. Just know why you’re doing it.

For the experience. Not the trophy.

Thanks for reading and as always – keep laughing!

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For comments, questions about workshops and coaching please email – Dave@TheComedyBook.com