Every popular stand-up comedian in the business was once an amateur who tried his luck at an open mic. So if you think you possess comedic talent, then the nearest open mic contest is where you should be at.
Half the battle is won when you decide to shed your inhibitions and build up the courage to go on stage. If you’re there already, then these pointers will help you sail through your first performance.
Attend stand-up gigs
You become a better comedian by watching more comedy. Go watch shows by seasoned comics to observe the finer things such as their body language and how they conduct themselves on stage. It is also not a bad idea to attend a few open mics so as to identify mistakes made by other contestants. The idea is to avoid those mistakes.
Prepare your material
Trust us, you aren’t going to be able to wing it the first time around. Come up with a set of jokes, and run them past family and friends for good measure.
Trust yourself
Every comedian has his own distinct style that gets developed over time. It is important to back yourself and do what comes naturally to you. Don’t try to imitate someone else or attempt jokes that you don’t relate to.
Try to have fun
Remember, everyone else at the open mic is just as nervous and inexperienced as you are. The first time you perform on stage is memorable, so try to relax and have a good time.
Don’t get dejected by failure
There is no comedian who hasn’t bombed on stage in the early part of his career. You just have to pick yourself up, write better jokes and get yourself on the stage again till you nail that gig.
Check out upcoming open mics and other comedy events in Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Hyderabad, Bangalore and Chennai.
Image: The Habitat, Mumbai.
