Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Comedy Festival • Bomb • Door Split

Street Joke

Term from Standup Comedy industry explained for recruiters

A Street Joke is a type of comedy material that has been passed around between comedians and is considered public domain - like a modern version of traditional folk tales. These are jokes that have been told so many times that no one claims ownership of them. When appearing on a comedian's resume, it usually indicates experience with traditional comedy structures and ability to deliver familiar material with a fresh twist. While original material is highly valued in modern comedy, knowledge of street jokes shows understanding of classic joke formats and timing.

Examples in Resumes

Developed unique personal takes on classic Street Jokes for open mic performances

Curated and performed collection of Street Jokes at comedy clubs across the Midwest

Taught workshop on transforming Street Jokes into original material

Typical job title: "Comedy Writers"

Also try searching for:

Stand-up Comedian Comedy Writer Comedy Performer Open Mic Comedian Club Comedian Comedy Instructor Comedy Content Creator

Where to Find Comedy Writers

Online Communities

Job Boards

Industry Events

• Comedy Festivals Directory
• Local Comedy Open Mics

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Experienced Comedian Questions

Q: How do you transform a street joke into original material?

Expected Answer: Should explain process of identifying core elements of traditional jokes, methods of adding personal perspective, and techniques for making familiar material fresh and unique.

Q: How do you handle performing street jokes in today's originality-focused comedy scene?

Expected Answer: Should discuss balancing traditional material with original content, crediting sources when appropriate, and strategies for using street jokes in teaching or open mics versus professional shows.

Mid-Level Comedian Questions

Q: What makes a street joke effective or ineffective in modern comedy?

Expected Answer: Should be able to analyze joke structure, timing, and relevance to contemporary audiences, while discussing how to adapt traditional material for current times.

Q: How do you use street jokes in developing new material?

Expected Answer: Should explain how classic joke structures inform original writing, using traditional formats as templates, and methods for putting personal spins on familiar setups.

Beginning Comedian Questions

Q: What is the difference between a street joke and original material?

Expected Answer: Should understand that street jokes are public domain material known by many comedians, while original material is personally created content unique to the performer.

Q: How do you properly credit or acknowledge street jokes in your set?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate awareness of comedy ethics, methods for introducing traditional material, and understanding when it's appropriate to use street jokes.