Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Showcase • Clean Material • Set List

Set List

Term from Standup Comedy industry explained for recruiters

A Set List is a planned sequence of jokes and stories that a comedian performs during their show. Think of it as a comedian's working outline or performance plan. It's similar to how musicians have a playlist of songs they'll perform at a concert. Comedians carefully arrange their material in a specific order to build audience engagement, create the right flow of energy, and maximize laughs. When you see this term on a resume, it indicates that the performer has experience in organizing and managing their own material professionally.

Examples in Resumes

Developed and performed original Set List at major comedy clubs across the country

Crafted 45-minute Set Lists for corporate entertainment events

Maintained multiple Set List variations for different audience demographics

Typical job title: "Stand-up Comedians"

Also try searching for:

Comedian Stand-up Comic Comedy Performer Comedy Writer Comedy Artist Entertainment Performer

Where to Find Stand-up Comedians

Comedy Communities

Industry Resources

Example Interview Questions

Experienced Comedian Questions

Q: How do you adjust your set list for different types of audiences?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process for reading audience demographics, having multiple versions of their material, and ability to adapt content for corporate vs club shows.

Q: How do you handle difficult audience situations while maintaining your set list flow?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience with heckler management, recovering from missed jokes, and maintaining professional composure while staying on track with planned material.

Mid-Level Comedian Questions

Q: How do you structure your set list to maximize audience engagement?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic principles of comedy timing, building up to stronger material, and maintaining audience interest throughout the set.

Q: How often do you rotate new material into your set list?

Expected Answer: Should discuss their process for testing new material, retiring old jokes, and keeping their performance fresh while maintaining reliable laughs.

Beginning Comedian Questions

Q: How long is your current set list?

Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss their prepared material length, typically starting with 5-10 minute sets, and how they're working to expand their material.

Q: How do you prepare your set list before a show?

Expected Answer: Should explain their basic process for organizing material, practicing timing, and preparing for a performance.