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So, open mic, huh? When's the sign-up? Actually, this is a booked show. The mic is closed. Okay. Can I perform this week? Sorry, we're not that kind of show any more. We book up several weeks in advance, and if there's a last-minute cancellation, I let the remaining comics go longer. It's nothing personal, it's just how I book the show. Unless you've already performed at Karma a bunch of times or I'm already familiar with and fond of your work, my next open date is your first shot. Can I get booked for this specific date? What did I just say? Okay, then what about some future date? How do I get booked? I'll be honest, it's not as easy as it used to be. I'm always interested in trying out new people, but we have more interested comics than space for them these days. I don't need to book blind any more, so I don't. But I'm really, really funny. Yes, many people have told me that about themselves, and many of them were correct. Many others were not, and I've been burned rather badly a few times. I'm sure you're not horrible and would not derail the entire show. But I'm going to need more than your solemn word before I take the risk. But I've performed at this place and that place. Cool. Unfortunately, that doesn't tell me much about whether your comedy is right for our night. Well, what did you have in mind? How can I prove myself to the grand high poobah of the coffeehouse comedy show? Easiest way to get booked -- get recommended. Check out the past shows and see who's performed at our night. Although I will warn you, certain comics' opinions carry more weight than others'. You should check me out with So-and-So who isn't on that list. Sorry to sound narrow-minded, but if I don't know them, I can't trust their opinion. And if I can't email or call them to verify your recommendation (yes, people have lied to me), it also doesn't help. I guess I don't know anyone you know. Does that mean I can't get booked, you big jerk? Not at all. Point me to your website that has VIDEO or WRITING. Something that can help me judge whether your comedy is right for our show. A resume and list of places you've performed don't help me much, and I need more than just a colorful bio page. Video, articles, or a blog are all good clues. I'm not as web-savvy as the person who created this barely adequate page. Yes, I am very proud of my limited web design skills. Well, you can drop off a tape at Karma, attention Dan Tobin. Okay, I don't have a tape or a website or a personal relationship with anyone you know. It's over, isn't it? You are making this hard. All I can say is swing by the show, introduce yourself, be funny or charming or smart or nice. I can't make any promises, but it's something. Your standards are tough, buddy. Too tough. I owe it to the audience, to the other comics, and to Karma to put together the best show possible. I've been fortunate to build a roster of solid comics, and that means I have the luxury to be selective. I apologize. But maybe In a few months, you'll cross paths with me or someone I know. I actually emailed you already and didn't hear back. Yeah... sometimes it's my passive-aggressive way of politely declining without having to say, "No thanks." Sometimes I'm just a lazy sack of crap and meant to write you. In that case, I'll get around to it eventually. Probably on a Monday. If I don't get booked, does it mean I suck? Not at all. Taste is subjective, and I'm looking for a specific thing for this night. There are lots of other venues out there -- check out Chucklemonkey for a pretty good list. Best of luck. Yeah, go luck yourself. Cheers. |