Bringer Show
A Bringer Show is a common type of performance opportunity in the stand-up comedy world where comedians are required to bring a certain number of paying audience members to get stage time. These shows are often entry-level opportunities for new comedians to gain experience. While some venues call them "Guest List Shows" or "Friends and Family Shows," they all work on the same principle: comedians need to guarantee a minimum number of audience members (usually 5-10 people) to secure their performance slot. This practice helps venues ensure a full house while giving new comedians a chance to perform.
Examples in Resumes
Performed at 50+ Bringer Shows across New York City comedy clubs
Built initial fanbase through consistent Bringer Show performances
Organized and hosted weekly Bringer Shows at local comedy venue
Typical job title: "Stand-up Comedians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Stand-up Comedians
Comedy Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Experienced Comedian Questions
Q: How do you handle difficult audience members during a bringer show?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience with crowd management, de-escalation techniques, and maintaining show momentum while handling disruptions professionally.
Q: What's your strategy for building and maintaining a reliable audience base for bringer shows?
Expected Answer: Should explain methods of audience development, social media engagement, and relationship building with regular attendees while maintaining professional standards.
Intermediate Comedian Questions
Q: How do you adapt your material for different bringer show audiences?
Expected Answer: Should show understanding of reading room demographics, adjusting content appropriately, and having backup material ready.
Q: What techniques do you use to encourage audience members to return to future shows?
Expected Answer: Should discuss post-show networking, collecting contact information, and maintaining professional communication with audience members.
Beginning Comedian Questions
Q: How do you prepare for a bringer show performance?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic preparation steps like confirming guest list, timing material, and basic stage etiquette.
Q: What methods do you use to find and confirm audience members for your shows?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic promotion through social media, personal networks, and follow-up communication.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic crowd interaction
- 5-10 minutes of original material
- Social media promotion basics
- Show preparation fundamentals
Mid (1-3 years)
- Consistent audience development
- 15-30 minutes of polished material
- Professional networking
- Event promotion strategies
Senior (3+ years)
- Advanced crowd work
- 45+ minutes of material
- Show hosting and production
- Mentoring newer performers
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to consistently bring minimum required audience members
- Unprofessional communication with venue staff or audience
- Inability to adapt material for different audiences
- Poor time management or showing up late to shows
Related Terms
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