Special
A "Special" is an extended standup comedy performance that's typically filmed for television or streaming platforms. It's different from regular comedy club sets because it's usually an hour long and represents a comedian's best, most refined material. Think of it like a musician's album or an artist's gallery show - it's a carefully crafted collection of their work. When you see this term on a resume, it usually means the comedian has reached a significant level in their career where they've developed enough strong material to fill a longer show and have gained enough recognition to get it produced and distributed.
Examples in Resumes
Filmed one-hour Special for Netflix, reaching over 2 million views
Wrote and performed 30-minute Comedy Special for Comedy Central
Developed material for upcoming Standup Special with major streaming platform
Typical job title: "Standup Comedians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Standup Comedians
Industry Networks
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Headliner Level Questions
Q: How do you prepare for filming a special?
Expected Answer: Should discuss material development process, touring to perfect the set, technical considerations like camera angles and lighting, and how they work with directors and producers.
Q: How do you manage the business side of producing a special?
Expected Answer: Should explain negotiating with platforms/networks, understanding contracts, working with managers/agents, and marketing strategies.
Feature Level Questions
Q: How do you develop an hour of material?
Expected Answer: Should explain their process for writing, testing new material at clubs, refining jokes, and structuring a longer set.
Q: How do you maintain consistency across multiple shows?
Expected Answer: Should discuss techniques for memorizing material, adapting to different audiences, and keeping energy levels high.
Open Mic Level Questions
Q: What's your process for writing new material?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic joke writing, how they find inspiration, and testing material at open mics.
Q: How do you handle tough crowds?
Expected Answer: Should discuss basic crowd work, recovering from jokes that don't land, and maintaining composure on stage.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic joke writing
- Open mic performance experience
- 5-10 minute sets
- Basic stage presence
Mid (2-5 years)
- 30-minute sets
- Feature spot experience
- Consistent material
- Crowd work abilities
Senior (5+ years)
- Hour-long sets
- Headliner experience
- Special development
- Production knowledge
Red Flags to Watch For
- No recent stage time or performance experience
- Unable to handle audience interaction
- No original material
- Poor time management of sets
Related Terms
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