Have you always wondered how you get into stand-up comedy? This is something that many people assume you have to be famous in order to do. But the truth is, everyone has to start somewhere. A lot of the people you know as famous comedians started by doing stand-ups. This was often in their local area and without much training. So, if you do want to pursue this as a career, know that you do have the opportunity to get involved in the comedy world.
So, the answer is yes; anyone can do stand-up comedy. But, how can you get into comedy if you are just a beginner? Let’s take a closer look.
Go to Shows
One of the first things you should do is go to a lot of different stand-up comedy shows. You want to get used to the venues, explore different comedy styles and really see what it takes to make an audience laugh. Indeed, by being a member of the audience, you are going to learn a lot. Check out https://comedycarnival.co.uk/camden/ to see the comedy shows that are on right now. Fully embrace the show and see how you feel when you leave. You can decide if you really want to get into stand-up comedy and what type of show you would want to create for an audience.
Take Classes
There are many people that claim comedians have a natural gift and know how to entertain people. While this might be true in some cases, know that you can learn to do stand-up comedy. Through practice and having prepared material, as well as some determination, you can be successful in this career and the world of comedy.
For example, you can take classes to get used to creating stories, as well as to practice delivering them. You can sign up and socialise with like-minded people and see if you have what it takes. The purpose of the classes is to improve and get better. So, do not expect to succeed the first time around.
Create Ideas
Do not forget that you can practice stand-up comedy in your own time. All you have to do is get a pen and paper and start creating your jokes. You can think about things that have happened in your life and how you can make them funny and relatable for someone listening. You can simply spend a few hours a day creating ideas and practising. You can gradually have some material you can work with.
Something you should know is that stand-up comedy is difficult. You will have to stand in front of an audience with a microphone, telling jokes and stories. This is quite a daunting process and you will need a lot of confidence. It is not an easy thing to do and there is a lot of pressure to make the audience laugh. So, practice is going to be key to changing this.
Try An Open Mic
Eventually, you would love to have a show like comedians do at comedy clubs. But, this is not going to be something that is realistic straight away. Instead, it will take time and you will have to build a reputation first. It all starts by getting out there and trying an open mic. This is something that is organised at a lot of different venues. Almost anybody can sign up and this is your chance to try out the material you have prepared.
Do not forget that an open mic night is your chance to see if you enjoy doing comedy. After all, you have to enjoy what you are doing and this can make you good at it. Again, you are going to be nervous to begin with and the whole thing can feel strange at first. But, keep attending open mics and see how you get on. If you enjoy it, this could lead to big things.
Be Prepared for Criticism
Comedy is not for the faint-hearted. This is something you have to remember if you are really going to give it a go. It is not easy to do stand-up and there is a risk that your jokes could fall flat. In fact, every professional will tell you they have had some horrible experiences before they became popular.
Therefore, know that criticism can be part of the journey. You have to be determined if you really enjoy doing it and accept that not everybody is going to like you.