When writing a comedy routine for a stand-up act, the comedian must take countless factors into consideration. This on how they are going to make a room erupt with laughter.
The audience’s mood, the comedian’s delivery style, and timing, and most importantly, the content of jokes are all key elements that must be carefully crafted in order to get a positive reaction. To achieve this, comedians should think about topics that will make people laugh –whether it’s sharing funny stories from their everyday lives or poking fun at current
Although these tips and ideas may not be true for all comedians. It’s a worthy exercise to practice in order to identify what makes your own routine unique.
What is your biggest strength?
All comedians have various strengths and weaknesses depending on their personalities. If you can identify those traits effectively, and play to your strengths while avoiding weaknesses, your set will be stronger.
Take into account if you are a loud or quiet speaker, as well as if you rely on movement or not. Either can be a viable trait depending on the audience, it comes down to the audience you appeal to.
Who are you appealing to?
This question is best answered by the material rather than the source creating the material. If you have steady material that fits a particular age group, class of society, or pop culture connection. This is where to begin your routine preparation.
These appeals will then dictate how you structure your set. Your material should feel as if you can’t fit it all into the allotted amount of time, since it’s so difficult to choose which jokes you want to perform and when. Take those subjects and amplify them, these then naturally create a character.
Are you in character?
Comedy is an act, and to act, you must be in character. Getting into character effectively will make or break your audience’s perspective of whether or not they enjoyed your set.
Remaining consistent is an essential aspect of the comedy routine. Giving giving them a character that’s both likeable and relatable will carry your set into conversation long after the show is over.
Where are you performing?
Getting acquainted with the area a bit prior is something to prepare for when you find opportunities at smaller venues especially. This creates chemistry with the audience, a familiarity that reminds them they are no longer being sold on the idea of you being a comedian or not, but instead how entertaining you are. Even the smallest of details can go a long way.
On the drive (or flight), take note of the surroundings. What kind of residential areas do you pass by? Is there an active nightlife? Who else is performing in the area? Are comedy acts common where you are performing?
Appeal to the audience
While remaining in character and playing to your strengths, there is some leeway for catering a bit to the audience. If you primarily appeal as a family-friendly act with attention to the home life of families. An 11:00 pm show on a school night at a nightclub may not be the best place to use that kind of material.
Stick to your roots and what is most effective for you. Just don’t rely solely on it for the success of your routine.
Formatting your comedy outlet correctly
There are more comedy outlets in 2022 than the average audience member can count. Podcasts, nightclubs, tv specials, social media platforms, and all walks of life can find their way into the digital space today to enjoy a comedy. Crafting your routine to be prepared for each format is another crucial aspect of creating an effective routine.
If your set is heavily dependent on audience interaction, a podcast may not be the best format for you. If you can deliver perfectly in a booth, but struggle in front of massive crowds, perhaps social media is a better format for your routine.
Finding what’s most comfortable for you will be the difference maker. Finding what works best for you will allow you to be able to hone your craft and every comedy routine you create. You are now on route becoming as great of a comedian as you expect yourself to be!
If you are ever looking for a comedic reference check out Jeff Zaret’s stuff on YouTube. Jeff has been in the comedy world for years and has tons of experience building effective comedy routines.