Alternative Room
An Alternative Room is a non-traditional performance space where comedians perform stand-up comedy outside of regular comedy clubs. These can include bars, coffee shops, bookstores, or other unique venues. Alternative Rooms are important in the comedy industry because they give new comedians a chance to practice their craft, allow established comedians to test new material in a lower-pressure environment, and help build local comedy communities. They're often called "Alt Rooms" or "Independent Comedy Venues" and are considered crucial stepping stones in a comedian's career development.
Examples in Resumes
Produced weekly shows at three Alternative Room venues across the city
Developed and grew Alt Room attendance from 20 to 200 regular attendees
Performed regularly at Alternative Room shows while developing new material
Typical job title: "Alternative Room Producers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Alternative Room Producers
Online Communities
Job Boards
Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle show budgeting and revenue sharing with venues and performers?
Expected Answer: Experienced producers should explain their system for ticket sales, door splits, managing overhead costs, and ensuring fair payment to performers while maintaining profitability.
Q: What strategies have you used to grow and maintain a consistent audience?
Expected Answer: Should discuss marketing techniques, building an email list, social media promotion, networking with other shows, and creating a unique show identity that attracts repeat audiences.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you curate a balanced comedy lineup?
Expected Answer: Should explain their process for selecting performers of different styles and experience levels, managing show pacing, and ensuring audience engagement throughout the show.
Q: What's your process for dealing with difficult performers or audience members?
Expected Answer: Should describe conflict resolution strategies, professional boundaries, and policies for handling disruptive behavior while maintaining show quality.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic elements needed to run a successful alternative room show?
Expected Answer: Should mention basics like sound system, stage setup, seating arrangement, lighting, and show timing.
Q: How do you promote your shows on social media?
Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss basic marketing strategies, creating event pages, and using different social platforms to reach potential audience members.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic show organization
- Simple social media promotion
- Managing small venues
- Basic performer scheduling
Mid (1-3 years)
- Show promotion and marketing
- Audience building
- Venue relationship management
- Budget management
Senior (3+ years)
- Multiple venue management
- Large show production
- Network building
- Brand development
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with basic show production elements
- Poor communication with performers and venues
- Lack of understanding of comedy show timing and pacing
- No knowledge of local comedy scene or community
Related Terms
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