Balancing a family and a developing comedy career can be tricky. No worries. A perfectly balanced life is pretty boring. In this episode, we talk about ways pursue your dreams and keep things relatively even keel. LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE Specifically you’ll discover tips on: Aligning your priorities, batching your work, making sacrifices, getting the kids…
by Rik Roberts | School OF Laughs Performing comedy for the sheer fun of it is great. Bringing laughter to any group is a noble cause. But after awhile, if you have an act that is dependable, consistent and marketable – it’s time to make a dime. The first step is an honest reality check…
Contracts for independent performers, comedians and bands are no joking matter. In this episode we address the key components of a performer-based contract for shows you book outside of the comedy club. Check out this episode! Specifically, we talk about how to draft a contract that has YOUR best interest in mind. We cover: Refundable…
First impressions are key in any business. In show business, how you are introduced, what you look like, and how you promote yourself is crucial. Check out this episode! Listener questions addressed in this episode include: What is your take on appearances, outfit, clothing, etc., How does it affect the audience perception of you in relation to…
This is the third part of the series on how to write a joke. We know the first part of a joke is a set-up. And the second element is a punch line. The third element of a joke is a tag line. This is any laugh line after the original punch line. Tags are…
Rik answers questions about SiriusXm RADIO, turning conversations into stage material and avoiding being a comedy clone. After a recent writing class in Nashville we gather around the microphone as if it were a campfire. LISTEN THIS EPISODE In this episode Gavin (producer and aspiring comedian) discusses his first open mic appearance and what he…
In this episode Rik sits down with Chicago comedian Pat McGann. Pat went from selling non-woven polypropylene two-color bags to selling himself as a comedian to clubs and corporate events. Extended stretches as the house emcee for Zanies in Chicago taught him work the crowd and trust his gut. LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE NOW…
As an aspiring comedian you have plenty of goals floating around your mind. Fame and fortune are typically the top two but I can tell you from my perspective the greatest job perks are just beyond the horizon. One of the absolute best perks of performing comedy is seeing our great country. When I first…