Door Split
A Door Split is a payment arrangement in stand-up comedy where performers get paid based on the number of paying customers who come through the door to see the show. Usually calculated as a percentage or fixed amount per ticket sold. This is different from a flat fee payment, as the comedian's earnings depend on how many people attend. It's similar to commission-based pay in other industries. Newer comedians often work for door splits at smaller venues, while established comedians might prefer guaranteed flat fees at larger venues.
Examples in Resumes
Performed at 200+ shows working Door Split arrangements across the Midwest comedy circuit
Negotiated favorable Door Split deals at major comedy clubs in NYC and LA
Built strong following resulting in consistently profitable Door Split performances
Typical job title: "Stand-up Comedians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Stand-up Comedians
Comedy Industry Networks
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Experienced Comedian Questions
Q: How do you negotiate a fair door split arrangement?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of industry standards, ability to calculate potential earnings based on venue capacity and ticket prices, and experience in negotiating terms like minimum guarantees and marketing responsibilities.
Q: How do you ensure profitable door splits in new markets?
Expected Answer: Should explain strategies for marketing shows, building an audience through social media, and working with local promoters to ensure good attendance.
Mid-Level Comedian Questions
Q: What's your approach to promoting shows when working on door split?
Expected Answer: Should discuss using social media, email lists, flyers, and local media to promote shows, understanding that their income depends on attendance.
Q: How do you handle door split shows that under-perform?
Expected Answer: Should explain professional approaches to dealing with low turnout, maintaining relationships with venues, and strategies for improving future shows.
Beginning Comedian Questions
Q: What's your understanding of how door splits work?
Expected Answer: Should show basic understanding of percentage-based payment, ticket sales tracking, and standard industry rates for new performers.
Q: How do you track your door split earnings?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic knowledge of record-keeping for performances, understanding ticket sales reports, and calculating their share of the door.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of door split calculations
- Ability to promote shows on social media
- Building 15-30 minute sets
- Working with venue staff
Mid (2-5 years)
- Negotiating favorable door split terms
- Building and maintaining audience draw
- Marketing show effectively
- Managing show logistics
Senior (5+ years)
- Maximizing door split profitability
- Strong track record of sold-out shows
- Building sustainable touring routes
- Teaching newer comics about business aspects
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic door split calculations
- Unwilling to promote their own shows
- No tracking system for performances and earnings
- Poor relationships with venues and other comics
Related Terms
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