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Unlocking Your Potential as a Comedian
Today we delve into the most effective way to progress as a comedian. These methods are applicable to all aspects of life so don’t feel this is just applicable to comedy. This blog is based on the Lets Talk Comedy video linked below by the wonderful Gary Michaels. Go check him out and show him some love here
The Progression Session Journal
This method requires a separate Journal. To begin your journey towards improvement, I recommend purchasing a separate journal, which we’ll call the “Progression Session Journal.” This journal is not for writing jokes or routines; its purpose is to help your overall character development as a comedian.
Here’s what you need to write in this journal:
1. Analysing Your Comedy Style
- Identify the comedy style that works best for you.
- Explore why that particular style resonates with your audience.
- Understand what aspects of your personality contribute to its effectiveness.
- Determine which comedy styles do not work for you and why.
- It’s important to reflect on these questions, even if your conclusions differ from more experienced comedians. Trust in your own insights and act accordingly.
2. Evaluating Your Communication Skills
- Assess how you interact with the audience during your performances.
- Consider your initial approach and the rapport you build.
- Determine if you require more time to win over the audience.
- Recognise the impact of your style on the delivery and timing of your punchlines.
- Understanding these aspects will help you refine your act and connect with your audience more effectively.
3. Reflecting On Performance Progression
- Document the jokes and routines that work for you.
- Analyze why certain jokes are successful and others fall flat.
- Take note of how your comfort level evolves throughout your set.
- Understand the optimal time it takes for you to relax on stage.
- Adapt your material to align with your natural rhythm and build confidence.
4. Identifying Ideal Performance Environments
- Explore the types of venues where you thrive as a performer.
- Consider scenarios with minimal technical elements, relying solely on your voice.
- Recognise whether your background influences your performance in specific settings.
- Understand how different factors, such as lighting and microphone use, impact your delivery.
5. Setting Goals For Personal Growth
- Envision where you want to be as a comedian in six months’ time.
- Define the kind of act you aim to become.
- Specify the topics you want to cover and the audiences you want to engage.
- Continuously update your goals with each progression session, allowing you to track your growth over time.
6. Reflecting On Professional Development
- Analyze your progress in areas beyond joke creation and performance.
- Consider improvements in your communication skills, conduct, and professionalism.
- Understand how your approach to applying for gigs has evolved.
- Gain insights into how far you’ve come as a comedian and the lessons you’ve learned.
The Benefits of Consistent Reflection
By dedicating time to your progression session journal, you’ll unlock several advantages:
1. Self-Awareness And Confidence
- Gain a deep understanding of your onstage persona and what makes you unique.
- Comedians who know themselves well can present themselves with confidence, quickly winning over audiences.
- Understand how to leverage your delivery, body language, and tone of voice to connect better with your audience.
2. Learning From Both Successes And Failures
- Identify patterns in your successful performances and replicate them.
- Analyze the reasons behind jokes that didn’t resonate and learn from those experiences.
- Build a catalog of what works and what doesn’t, enabling you to refine your material consistently.
3. Vision And Direction
- Develop a clear vision of your future as a comedian.
- Regularly updating your goals will keep you focused and motivated.
- By understanding where you want to be, you can align your material and act to reach that destination.
4. Recognition Of Growth And Progress
- Celebrate your victories and milestones along the way.
- Reflect on how far you’ve come and acknowledge your personal and professional growth.
- Even during challenging periods or after a series of bad gigs, you’ll be armed with insights to help you improve.
Embrace the Power of Recording and Analysis
Recording your performances and watching them back is an invaluable tool for growth. Here’s how to maximise its benefits:
1. Study Yourself
- Set aside time to watch your performances attentively.
- Take notes on areas for improvement, such as delivery, timing, and stage presence.
- Writing down your observations during these sessions will enhance your understanding of your overall character.
2. Continuously Strive For Improvement
- No matter how experienced you become, there is always room for growth.
- Acknowledge areas where you can enhance your material and delivery.
- By actively working on these improvements, you’ll consistently elevate your act.
3. Connect Analysis To Your Progression Session
- Incorporate your video analysis into your progression session journal.
- Write about the specific aspects you want to improve based on your observations.
- Integrating your video analysis into your journaling practice helps you develop a more comprehensive understanding of your growth.
Embrace The Journey To Success
Remember that success is built upon a foundation of failures and continuous improvement. Embrace the journey, knowing that each variation of your million attempts brings you closer to achieving your goals.
By consistently dedicating time to your progression session and recording your performances, you’ll acquire valuable insights into your character and onstage presence. This process empowers you to connect deeply with your audience, refine your act, and progress towards becoming the comedian you aspire to be.
So, start your writing session in your progression session journal right now, and prepare to witness your growth as a comedian. Your dedication to self-reflection will propel you ahead of other acts in the open mic scene. Take the time to understand who you are as a performer, and success will follow.
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