Tag: stage time

Learning at Open Mic’s

Last night I went out to an open mic at a bar that’s not too far from where I live. I always say that magicians can learn a lot by going to these, not just performing but by watching comics work.

The acts that did the best were the ones that hopped onstage and got into their material. The acts that got up, mumbled, fussed with the mic stand, then 45 seconds later got into jokes were the ones that didn’t do as well.

One comic got on stage and immediately started making fun of a guy at the bar. It turned the audience really quick on the comic. Without liking the comic, you can’t do “insult humor” or roast anyone before you establish yourself so the audience is with you. It was interesting to watch someone make that choice, especially when you only have 3-5 mins onstage. I guess open mics are about taking risks, and that comic definitely took a risk!

If you’re a magician, especially a “comedy magician” you should pop into these every now and then.

-Louie

Cool Stage Time…

After getting back from performing at a Sideshow Festival in New Orleans I realized another reason that these industry festivals are important: Stage time! Coming up in stand up comedy venues, I learned that “stage time is more important than gold.” The value of stage time is something that’s carried through my whole life. At … Continue reading “Cool Stage Time…”

After getting back from performing at a Sideshow Festival in New Orleans I realized another reason that these industry festivals are important: Stage time! Coming up in stand up comedy venues, I learned that “stage time is more important than gold.” The value of stage time is something that’s carried through my whole life.


At a festival it’s a different kind of stage time. For a younger performer, getting to work on a stage that their hero’s perform on is one of the best feelings. Even better is when they get to perform on shows with them, it’s a boost to the energy of newer acts. That makes acts work harder, which hopefully makes them better.

For an older performer like me, it’s inspiring to see newer performers excited to be on a show. That excitement motivates me to be better and hopefully keep up with the kids.