Comedian John Garrett had enough with his day job and saw an opportunity to pursue comedy full time. So, he took a few legal pads from the supply closet and started performing in NYC. Since his arrival, he’s sharpened his wit, broadened his options and become one exceptionally funny guy. Check out this episode! We talk about:…
This comedy campfire style episode was recorded after a live stand-up comedy class in Nashville, comedy students ask great questions including: Where do you find up and coming comedians on the web? How do I come up with a stage name? What do you do when you have a “down day” to get into…
Now that you rule the open mic scene, you may be wondering, “How do I get paid to do comedy?” Every club is a little different, but we discuss the most common process for getting bumped up from the open mic treadmill to a paid emcee week at the comedy club. Check out this episode!…
Ever wonder how to get paid work at a comedy club? Before you burn your first impression, here are a few questions you should ask yourself. It’s far better to be over prepared than barely there. Check out this episode! Listen and then answer these questions honestly: 1) Is there a market for my comedy? 2) How many…
Balancing a family and a developing comedy career can be tricky. No worries. A perfectly balanced life is pretty boring. In this episode, we talk about ways pursue your dreams and keep things relatively even keel. LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE Specifically you’ll discover tips on: Aligning your priorities, batching your work, making sacrifices, getting the kids…
Contracts for independent performers, comedians and bands are no joking matter. In this episode we address the key components of a performer-based contract for shows you book outside of the comedy club. Check out this episode! Specifically, we talk about how to draft a contract that has YOUR best interest in mind. We cover: Refundable…
First impressions are key in any business. In show business, how you are introduced, what you look like, and how you promote yourself is crucial. Check out this episode! Listener questions addressed in this episode include: What is your take on appearances, outfit, clothing, etc., How does it affect the audience perception of you in relation to…
Rik gives a few tips on what to ask the people who book you for comedy shows. And he shares a couple of brief stories about working with Bobcat Goldthwait, Danny Bonnaducce and the Rainer Twins. Listener questions are answered, including: “What things would I have done differently early on? “What questions should comics ask, but don’t?”…
Becoming Part Of Your Local Scene by Rik Roberts / www.SchoolOfLaughs.com Beginning a career in comedy can be pretty intimidating (to say the least). You head out to the local pub or club and find yourself a stranger in a strange land. It’s almost like trying to find your way around in the dark. Like a…
Rik answers questions about SiriusXm RADIO, turning conversations into stage material and avoiding being a comedy clone. After a recent writing class in Nashville we gather around the microphone as if it were a campfire. LISTEN THIS EPISODE In this episode Gavin (producer and aspiring comedian) discusses his first open mic appearance and what he…