"Careers in Comedy"
Question:
I’ve always been told I’m funny, and people have told me I’d make a great comedian. Is this realistic?
Answer:
It’s important to be aware that very few people who dream of becoming a comedian actually do so - at least on a full-time
basis. However, if you are highly motivated and willing to accept the idea that your dream may become a part-time venture
rather than a full-time vocation, there are practical ways to approach this career.
The first step toward this field is developing your skills. Many people believe that it is not possible to “create” a sense
of humor. Most comedians will probably suggest that humor is innate - that some people are “born funny”. However, whether
you consider yourself “naturally funny” or not, it is possible to hone your skills. Skills development begins with improving
your overall communication skills. I encourage you to take communication classes, including courses in theatre performance
and oral interpretation. Some career advisers - myself included - recommend that you get involved with campus and community
entertainment events. You may want to volunteer to help with planning or promoting on-campus speakers or events. As part of
your participation with these projects, volunteer to “MC” on-campus events or introduce speakers. Every opportunity to speak
in front of an audience can give you added confidence, makes you more comfortable with the experience, and help as you develop
your sense of “stage presence”.
One excellent way to gain learn the business is by taking a comedy seminar or workshop. In our area, seminars are currently
offered by an experienced comic and talent agent, Dave Schwensen. Dave’s workshops are hands-on and practical, and culminate
in a performance at an area comedy club. Dave has also written a book, “How to be a working comic: an insider’s guide to a
career in stand-up comedy”, published by Back Stage Books. As a local resource, Dave’s book and his seminars are very worth
taking advantage of.
While you develop material you think is funny, look for opportunities to try it out on an audience. Many larger cities including
both Cleveland and Toledo, have comedy clubs which feature “open microphone” nights which allow aspiring comics a few minutes
on stage. As you further develop an act, consider contacting area clubs or bars. Establishments which feature other types
of entertainment such as local bands may also be willing to consider a comedy act.
If you decide that you are genuinely interested in pursuing comedy as a career, you will probably find it necessary to relocate.
Chicago, New York and Los Angeles are major centers for the entertainment industry in general and comedy in particular. You
may also find yourself facing a great deal of “touring” - traveling to bookings in local clubs or other venues. In our area,
periodic appearances by comedians such as Carrot Top are examples of comedians pursuing their careers by touring.
There are several informative web sites which you may want to visit. These include:
http://www.thecomedybook.com
This is Dave Schwensen’s site. It contains information about the field in general, and extensive information about his book,
and about the workshops he offers.
http://magic.about.com/hobbies/magic/library/tips/bltip26a.htm
http://humor.about.com/comedy/humor/insub16.htm?once=true&
This is a collection of links to useful sites.
Questions about careers? Ask the Career Guy @ careers@bgsu.edu
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