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When it comes to stand-up comedy, nailing microphone etiquette is crucial. It’s not just about being respectful of the mic and the space; it’s about making sure your jokes land with maximum impact.
Get to Know Your Mic
- Take a good look at your mic. That top part is where the magic happens, capturing all your hilarious one-liners. If you’ve never used a mic before your first gig then get there early and PRACTICE (this sounds dumb but trust us!)
- Some mics have an on/off switch, so make sure it’s turned on!
- Oh, and don’t mess with the cord UNLESS there are technical difficulties
How To Hold The Mic
- Find that Goldilocks zone with your mic distance. You want to hear yourself clearly through the speakers, but don’t go too far and become a distant whisper.
- Change the distance depending on volume, don’t shout directly into the mic!
- Remember, the top of the mic is your best friend, so don’t cover it up. Hold it around the solid base, like the pro comedian that you are, and not like a gangster rapper.
- Make sure the mic stand doesn’t hide your face. Your expressions and gestures are priceless, so let the audience enjoy the full comedic experience.
Handling the Mic and Stand
- Treat that mic like a precious gem (or at least a really expensive toy). Hold it securely, and resist the urge to fidget or play with the cable.
- Trust us, messing with the cable can loosen the connection and turn your comedy gold into a technical nightmare.
- When adjusting the stand, be mindful of your feet. Keep them on the base, unless you want to accidentally do a mic stand acrobatics show.
- At the start of your set MOVE THE STAND OUT THE WAY (if you’re not using it) lots of new comedians will hide behind it and the audience can tell!
Working the Stage
- Move with a purpose, my fellow comedians. Whether you’re pacing or doing a funny dance, make each step count. Audiences can sense when pacing is just nerves or when it serves a purpose!
- Plant those feet firmly when delivering killer punchlines. It shows you mean business, and the audience will eat it up. (Unless doing an actout)
- Your movements should complement your jokes, adding an extra layer of hilarity. Just don’t go all out like a wild mime—keep it intentional.
Saying Goodbye After A Set
- After slaying the stage, put that mic back where it belongs, like a responsible comic. Show the next performer some love.
- Say your goodbyes and wave to the crowd with a smile. Let them know you appreciate their laughter and support.
- And don’t forget to leave the stage as neat as you found it. It’s a sign of respect for the venue and your fellow comedians.
Steer Clear of Comedy Faux Pas
- Remember, the mic and stand are not yours. Treat them with care and professionalism. No prop comedy disasters, please.
- Keep it clean, folks. No inappropriate mic or stand behaviour. Let your jokes do the talking, not your scandalous antics.
- Nervous swaying? Nah, we’re comedians, not scared kittens. Stand tall, embrace the stage, and perform your jokes as if you believe in them (even if you don’t).
- Adjust the mic height to suit your comedic stature. Don’t be the tall guy bending over or the short comedian towering over the mic. Find what feels comfortable for you.
You now have the tools to master microphone etiquette like pros. Remember, the mic is your comedy weapon, and the stage is your playground.
With each performance, you’ll refine your style, captivate audiences, and bring down the house with laughter. The mic is waiting for you to make some magic happen!
Learn more about Performing Comedy here
