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Question
How can I get started in stand-up comedy? What should I expect? How can I get past stage fright?

Answer
Hi Rick,

I get this question a lot and I've got a standard response, which is available in the archives:
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Jokes-Comedians-1535/started.htm

So take a look at that and if it spurs you to any related questions or there are still things you'd like to know that aren't in it, ask a follow-up and I'll see what I can do.

Matt

Jokes & Comedians

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Matt McDonald

Expertise

I DO NOT FULFILL REQUESTS TO TELL JOKES! PLEASE DON'T ASK. I can answer questions regarding getting started in stand-up comedy: what to expect, what to do before, during and after your first show, pushing past stage fright and associated pants-wetting fears and so on. I am also reasonably comfortable talking about the basic business aspects of stand-up where beginners are concerned.

Experience

I DO NOT FULFILL REQUESTS TO TELL JOKES! PLEASE DON'T ASK.
Experience in the area
I "worked" for nine years as a stand-up comic in Ohio. Most of my experience comes from open mics, local competitions and the like but I do have some familiarity with "the road" as it pertains to beginners. I have counseled/coached/mentored several people who wanted to get into stand up and wanted the full lowdown on what to expect once they started to pursue it in earnest. In 1994, I made more money from winning local open mic night contests than I did at my actual job. I also performed in improv comedy for a couple of years, though I never considered myself very good at it - I can answer general questions re: improv as well. Due to a volatile temper and abysmal luck, I never managed to make it to the next rung of the ladder. Middle age has mellowed me and now you can learn from my mistakes.

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