Stage Time
Stage Time refers to the actual minutes a comedian spends performing in front of a live audience. It's like on-the-job experience for comedians, where they practice their material, improve their skills, and develop their style. Just like how software developers need coding experience, comedians need Stage Time to become better at their craft. When you see this term in a resume, it indicates real performance experience rather than just writing jokes or studying comedy.
Examples in Resumes
Accumulated over 500 hours of Stage Time at various comedy clubs across the country
Managed weekly open mic events, providing Stage Time opportunities for new comedians
Earned regular Stage Time slots at The Comedy Store through consistent strong performances
Typical job title: "Stand-up Comedians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Stand-up Comedians
Comedy Communities
Job Resources
Industry Events
Example Interview Questions
Experienced Comedian Questions
Q: How do you handle difficult audiences and maintain control of the room?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience with various audience types, crowd work techniques, and strategies for recovering from tough situations. Should have specific examples of turning around difficult shows.
Q: How do you develop and test new material while maintaining your existing successful content?
Expected Answer: Should explain their process for writing, testing new jokes, and balancing new material with proven content. Should mention specific venues or shows they use for testing material.
Mid-Level Comedian Questions
Q: How do you structure your typical 15-minute set?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain how they organize their material, transition between jokes, and build momentum throughout their performance.
Q: How do you adapt your material for different types of venues and audiences?
Expected Answer: Should discuss how they modify their content and delivery based on venue type (club, corporate, college) and audience demographics.
Beginning Comedian Questions
Q: How many minutes of original material do you have ready to perform?
Expected Answer: Should have at least 5-10 minutes of tested material they can confidently perform. Should be able to describe their best bits.
Q: What do you do to prepare before going on stage?
Expected Answer: Should describe their pre-show routine, how they review their material, and methods for managing stage fright.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Can perform 5-10 minute sets
- Regular open mic participation
- Basic audience interaction
- Understanding of basic comedy structures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Can headline local shows
- 15-30 minute sets ready
- Consistent crowd work abilities
- Can adapt material for different audiences
Senior (5+ years)
- Hour-long headlining sets
- Festival and TV experience
- Strong crowd work mastery
- Can mentor newer comedians
Red Flags to Watch For
- No recent stage time in the past year
- Only performs at the same venue
- Unable to provide video samples of performances
- No experience with different audience types
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