Check in at the downstairs podium before 7PM. If you do not check-in before 7PM, you risk being replaced by someone on the stand-by list. If you're late, no show, or cancel, there's no guarantee that your spot can be rescheduled, and you risk starting the sign up process over again.

You'll find out your performance spot at approximately 7:15PM when the list is posted.

N set is 2 minutes
C set is 3 minutes.
B set is 4 minutes.

A set is 5 minutes.

N stands for Newbie. Everyone starts with a two-minute Newbie set to show us what they can do. Once a Newbie does their set, they will go on to do a C set. C and B sets are varying levels of local talent, and a C set is bumped to B set at the discretion of the New Talent Coordinators. Everyone moves at a different pace.

A sets are reserved for pros and “almost famous” comics on the club’s comic roster. These are selected by Wende Curtis herself. The Comedy Works roster is updated about once a year, at random. Promotions are always a surprise, stay on your toes!

Not exactly. Everyone moves at a different pace. Each comic moves up the set list at the judgement of the New Talent Coordinators. It takes time and lots of patience!

Depends on the comic. Everyone has a different path from moving up from C set to B set, and to be honest, it can be frustrating.

We are looking to see if you have the basics and have advanced from them - How are you handling your presence on stage? Are you connecting with the audience? What are your laughs per minute? How quick do you get to your first laugh? Is your material quality or hack?

Listen to the notes and stats given to you at each New Talent Night and do your best to apply them as you move forward. Watch other performers on your night and other nights. Work your material on mics around town. Bring your best material to the club every time you perform. And at worst - just ask us! We are happy to assist with one-on-one feedback.

The soundbooth will provide a light via white flashlight. You receive a 30 second light, and your mic will be cut at your time. There is no grace period. Make sure to acknowledge the light.

To get the most out of your set, here are some suggestions and guidelines to keep in mind that are specific to New Talent Night and performing at Comedy Works

• Don't ask, "How's everyone doing tonight?" or any of its variations.
  • This includes "Keep it going for your host."
  • These shows tend to have 20+ people on. If everyone asked "how's everyone doing tonight," the audience will get exhausted.
    
    
• When taking the microphone from the stand, move the microphone behind you
  • The mic stand creates a barrier between you and the audience and hinders your performance
    
    
• Economy of time is important.
  • You have 2 minutes to 4 minutes on that stage. Make your time count considering quality and quantity of jokes.
  • Know your opener. Know your closer.
    
    
• Acknowledge the light.
  
  
• Have fun.

If you are on the show, you may order from the bar and receive discounted drinks. If you are not on the show, you will have to order from a server and adhere to the two-item minimum policy. Comics not on the show do not receive discounted drinks.

Depends. If the show is not well sold or sold out, you may hang out in the back of the room. If the show is sold out, you may be out of luck and not be able to hang out during the show. In scenarios like this, if you are sitting in the showroom and a server comes up to you asking for your order, you are now considered a member of the audience. You either need to leave the show altogether or you need to adhere to the two-item minimum, order from your server, and tip your server at the end of the night.

If you are on the show, you can hang out in the green room. Please always keep aisles and walkways clear for servers and door staff.

We always encourage comics to attend other shows at Comedy Works. Please remember, when you attend the show, you are considered an audience member. You are to follow the two-item minimum rule and expected to tip your server.

Wrap Dates:
Sunday through Wednesdays (aka “Wrap Dates”) are generally local talent. We always encourage calling ahead to find out availability, but if you’re in the neighborhood, you can always stop by and ask the box office. Please do not say, “Hey, can I get in free tonight?” or “Are there comp tickets tonight?” There may be other patrons and customers around who have purchased or are looking to purchase tickets. Instead, say, “I’m a New Talent comic and hoping to see the show tonight. Is that possible? No worries if it’s not possible.”

Prime Time:
Thursday through Saturday are prime time shows. If it is one of your all-time favorite bucket list comedians, always better to buy a ticket. Otherwise, call the club, request to speak with a manager, and if there is any ability for you to attend the show, they will let you know.

Keep in mind, Thursday nights and late shows on Friday and Saturday are the times most likely to have availability. Friday and Saturday early shows tend to be the first to sell out.

If you don't see a rule listed here, please be sure to double check the FAQ page for more information.

After reviewing the Rules and FAQ pages, please reach out to [email protected] for any more information.