Segue
A segue in comedy is a smooth transition between different jokes or topics during a performance. It's like a verbal bridge that helps comedians move naturally from one subject to another without awkward pauses. Comedians use segues to keep their shows flowing and maintain audience engagement. This skill is particularly important in standup comedy, improv, and comedy writing. When people mention segues in their comedy resumes, they're showing they know how to create a cohesive, professional performance rather than just telling random jokes.
Examples in Resumes
Developed strong segue techniques for 60-minute comedy sets
Trained junior comedians in creating natural segues between bits
Known for crafting seamless segue transitions in improvisational comedy
Typical job title: "Comedy Writers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Comedy Writers
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Experienced Comedian Questions
Q: How do you handle transitioning between controversial and light-hearted material?
Expected Answer: Should explain their strategy for maintaining audience comfort while moving between different tones of material, with examples from their experience.
Q: Describe how you would teach segue writing to new comedians.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate teaching experience and ability to break down the process of creating natural transitions between comedy bits.
Mid-Level Questions
Q: How do you recover when a segue doesn't land with the audience?
Expected Answer: Should explain techniques for smoothly continuing the show when transitions don't work as planned, showing adaptability.
Q: What makes a good segue different from a bad one?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the difference between forced and natural transitions, with examples.
Beginner Questions
Q: What is a segue and why is it important in comedy?
Expected Answer: Should understand basic concept of transitions between jokes and why they matter for show flow.
Q: Give an example of a simple segue you've used in your act.
Expected Answer: Should be able to provide at least one example of connecting two jokes in their material.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic joke writing
- Simple transitions between related topics
- Understanding of comedy timing
- Basic audience interaction
Mid (2-5 years)
- Smooth transitions between diverse topics
- Ability to recover from failed segues
- Advanced crowd work
- Developing unique transition styles
Senior (5+ years)
- Master-level transition writing
- Teaching and mentoring abilities
- Complex show structure development
- Advanced comedy writing techniques
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to connect different parts of their set smoothly
- Relies on obvious or cliché transitions
- No understanding of show pacing
- Cannot adapt transitions when material isn't working
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