Hey Dave – I just went to a (big) audition in LA but didn’t get in because there were too many people. Like you advised, I gave one of the judges a post card with my headshot and links to my website and videos. I’m not living in LA and it was a long way to travel for this. Do you think it could be useful for me to email website and video links directly to comedy agents in LA and hope they’ll work with me when I return? Thanks – D.

Who’s next?

Hey D – Sorry to hear you didn’t make it into the audition. I know the one you’re talking about, and since it involved TV, it was bound to draw a huge crowd. These types of auditions are often referred to as “cattle calls” in the industry – lines of performers hoping to be seen before the cut-off.

It’s frustrating. You travel a long way, wait in line, and sometimes don’t even get a shot. I had a comic once call me while standing in line for America’s Got Talent. They were only seeing the first 100 people. He was probably number 110 and didn’t get seen.

Even more frustrating? He watched some comics get ushered to the front of the line. Why? Because the casting team already knew them. They’d either seen them perform live or had relationships through agents. That familiarity makes all the difference – they’re more willing to set aside a specific time or let them skip the line entirely.

That’s how the business works, especially in cities like LA and NYC. Casting people and agents don’t just look for talent – they look for reliable, experienced talent they already trust to deliver.

So, about emailing agents with your materials:

My expectations were too high!

It’s not a bad idea, but temper your expectations. Blind emails and unsolicited promo links usually go ignored unless the agent has a reason to care. They want to see comedians live, multiple times, in different settings. They’re investing time and effort into someone’s career, and they need proof it’s worth it.

A link to your website or YouTube channel can serve as an introduction or a reminder if they’ve already seen you live. That’s why I advised you to bring a card or postcard with your info – something that might help with name-face recognition down the line.

But for agents to truly consider working with you, they need to see you on stage, ideally in their city, so they know you’re accessible for gigs and auditions.

If your long-term goal is to land an LA agent, the best thing you can do is get really good. Hone your act, build your credits, and when you’re ready, go to LA and start networking in person. Visit the clubs, hit the open mics, try to set up showcases. If you have any connections who can help you get stage time at bigger clubs, use them.

The promotional material you send is like a movie trailer – it builds interest. But eventually, people will want to see the full movie. That means performing live.

I’d also recommend reading the interviews with Drew Carey and Jeff Foxworthy in How to Be a Working Comic. Neither one got attention from their promo materials alone. It wasn’t until they were seen on stage in LA that the doors opened.

So yes – send your links. But don’t rely on them. Instead, think of them as part of your long-term strategy: build recognition, stay in touch, and be ready to show up when the opportunity calls.

Thanks for reading – and keep laughing!

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

Spring 2025 Stand-Up Comedy Workshop at The Cleveland Funny Bone

Saturdays – April 26, May 3 and May 10 from noon to 4 pm

Includes a performance at The Funny Bone on Wednesday, May 14

For details, reviews, photos and registration visit ComedyWorkshop