--- title: "Stand-Up Comedy Career Paths: The Career Atlas | D.O.C." description: "Stand-up comedy career paths: 35 stops on five paid routes, who books each one, what nine buyers ask for in their own words, and your next move." url: https://disciplesofcomedy.com/stand-up-comedy-career-atlas.html updated: 2026-11-10 --- Comic's Corner · the Stand-Up Career Atlas # Stand-up comedy career paths: a map, not a ladder Open the map → Find my next move The short answer You can earn a living in stand-up without becoming famous. Most careers share a common start; from there, five paid routes run side by side: the clubs, your own shows, private and corporate events, colleges, and cruises and travel. Open a stop to see who decides, what they want to see and your next three moves. - **35** stops on the map - **5** paid routes - **9** buyers’ rules, in their own words By D.O.C. Editorial ## The atlas, in four parts The map ## From the first mic to a working career Seven lanes: the common start, five paid routes and a discovery lane that runs beside them. Each lane's stops run in their usual order, but none is a gate: you can host while you produce your own room, work private events while you feature, or tour without television. Open a stop and it appears under the map. Find a stop No stop on the map matches that. ### The common start Where the routes begin Most routes share this work. No stopwatch, and no set career year. 1. 01 · The act **First stage-ready five** Start with material you can test this week. *Full roadmap* 2. 02 · The room **Open-mic repetitions** Keep going up until the material improves, not just the confidence. *Full roadmap* 3. 03 · The proof **A usable live tape** Make it easy for a booker to judge the act itself. *Full roadmap* 4. 04 · The invitation **A booked spot that isn’t a mic** The first invitation is an audition for the next one. *Full roadmap* 5. 05 · The signal **A booker brings you back** From here, several routes can open at once. *Full roadmap* ### Club circuit A paid route Audition, host, feature, headline, and get asked back. 1. 01 · Get seen **Guest spots & auditions** Get watched by the people who book the slot. *Full roadmap* 2. 02 · Run the show **Host and emcee work** The buyer is trusting you with the whole room, not just a set. *Full roadmap* 3. 03 · Hold the middle **Feature bookings** Longer is better only once the set holds a real audience. *Full roadmap* 4. 04 · Close the room **Headline a full show** The headline slot carries more risk and more responsibility. *Full roadmap* 5. 05 · Rebook **A regular in the region’s clubs** Repeat bookings in more than one town make this a business. *Full roadmap* ### Your own shows A paid route Run the room, prove the demand, then try more towns. 1. 01 · Own the room **Produce one real show** Make your own stage time, with the costs counted. *Full roadmap* 2. 02 · Find your people **Build a crowd that comes back** A list of people who chose to hear from you survives any venue or app. *Full roadmap* 3. 03 · Make it pay **A ticketed room that pays** Profit, a good night for the audience, and a show you can run again: all three count. *Full roadmap* 4. 04 · Leave home **Try the towns nearby** Learn each market with small trips that pay for themselves. *Full roadmap* 5. 05 · Set the route **Run your own ticketed tour** Build a route because the demand is there, not because the map has gaps. *Full roadmap* ### Private & corporate A paid route Fit the room, package the act and earn repeat event work. 1. 01 · Fit the room **A tested clean set** Give the buyer confidence that the act fits their guests. *Full roadmap* 2. 02 · Show the work **A package a buyer can say yes to** A complete, accurate package makes the decision quicker. *Full roadmap* 3. 03 · Get the yes **Pitch the right buyers** The question is whether this event suits your act. *Full roadmap* 4. 04 · Protect the gig **Close a written agreement** Settle the deal before you travel or perform. *Full roadmap* 5. 05 · Rebook **Build repeat accounts** A few buyers who come back can matter more than thousands of followers. *Full roadmap* ### Colleges & campuses A paid route Get college-ready, then reach the buyers who book campuses. 1. 01 · Read the campus **An act for campuses** A campus is a buyer with a job to do, not just another comedy room. *Full roadmap* 2. 02 · Ready to apply **Your campus submission kit** Send what the application asks for, in the form it asks. *Full roadmap* 3. 03 · The marketplace **Reach the campus buyers** Spend on reaching a market only with a plan the evidence backs. *Full roadmap* 4. 04 · The first date **Your first campus date** How you handle the first campus date shapes the next one. *Full roadmap* 5. 05 · Return booking **A campus act that’s asked back** Repeat dates are the signal; a showcase is only the way in. *Full roadmap* ### Cruises & travel A paid route Longer, versatile sets, auditions, contracts and repeat work. 1. 01 · Length and fit **Several sets that adapt** Ship and travel buyers want long, versatile sets: build them first. *Full roadmap* 2. 02 · The package **Send an audition that convinces** Many cruise roles want an experienced act: read each one’s terms. *Full roadmap* 3. 03 · The deal **Weigh the contract** A booking is worth the whole contract, not the headline fee. *Full roadmap* 4. 04 · The run **Complete a travel engagement** Versatility and easy logistics count as much as set length. *Full roadmap* 5. 05 · Stability **Travel bookings that repeat** Renewals and contracts that pay define success, not miles or ships. *Full roadmap* ### Discovery & recordings Alongside the routes Visibility can help any route. It runs alongside them, not above them. 1. 01 · Discovery **Post strong stand-up clips** Use recordings to show the act, not to stand in for it. *Full roadmap* 2. 02 · Exposure **A festival or showcase that picks you** Choose stages where your audience or your buyers will be. *Full roadmap* 3. 03 · Optional **A stand-up set on television** The set has to stand on its own, and spots are few. *Full roadmap* 4. 04 · Own your recording **Release an album or special** A release is a lasting record and a way in for new audiences. *Full roadmap* 5. 05 · The amplifier **An audience that buys tickets** An audience of your own can open several paid routes at once. *Full roadmap* ## The stops The common start · stop 1 of 5 Writer, just starting ### First stage-ready five Start with material you can test this week. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-first-five-minute-set.html) 17 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** You, and the open mic’s host. **What they want to see** Five original minutes you can time, rehearse and change after an audience has heard them. **Worth knowing.** Five minutes on paper and a proven five in a room are two different things. **Your next three moves** Write and time a five-minute draft. Find two nearby open mics and read how sign-up works. Choose the one bit you most need to test. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [How to build a 5-minute set, in the Starter Course](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/how-to-start-stand-up-comedy.html#lesson-3) · [The Writers’ Room](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/how-to-write-stand-up-comedy.html) **Connects to** Open-mic repetitions The common start · stop 2 of 5 Open-mic comic ### Open-mic repetitions Keep going up until the material improves, not just the confidence. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-open-mic-reps.html) 19 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** The mic’s organiser, who runs the sign-up or the lottery. **What they want to see** You finish on time, keep notes and rewrite from what the room gave you. **Worth knowing.** A mic set shows the material is growing; holding a paying audience is the next test. **Your next three moves** Try two different mic formats. Record only where the room allows it. Rewrite a weak minute before your next set. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Stage Time: open mics near you, and your log](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/stage-time.html) · [Comic Critique: read your tape](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/critique.html) **Connects to** A usable live tape The common start · stop 3 of 5 Comic with a reliable short set ### A usable live tape Make it easy for a booker to judge the act itself. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-stand-up-tape.html) 15 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** You choose what to send; the booker chooses what to watch. **What they want to see** One continuous take, the room’s laughs audible, and a strong opening that fits the length that buyer asks for. **Worth knowing.** Tape lengths differ by buyer: Gotham asks for 2–5 minutes, Lafayette for 5–10. **Your next three moves** Film a complete set with clear sound. Check the tape against two buyers’ own submission pages. Keep a link that opens without asking for permission. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [What goes on a comedy demo reel](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-comedy-demo-reel.html) · [Stage Time’s Tech tab: a mic for the tape](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/stage-time.html#tech) **In the buyers’ own words** [Gotham Comedy Club ↗](https://gothamcomedyclub.com/New-Talent/) · [Lafayette Comedy ↗](https://www.lafayettecomedy.com/submissions/comediansubmission) · [Bushwick Comedy ↗](https://www.bushwickcomedy.com/contact/out-of-town-submission) **Connects to** A booked spot that isn’t a mic · Post strong stand-up clips The common start · stop 4 of 5 Showcase or guest comic ### A booked spot that isn’t a mic The first invitation is an audition for the next one. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-comedy-showcase-spots.html) 16 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** A producer, a club’s talent buyer or an independent showrunner. **What they want to see** You deliver the minutes asked for to a real audience, arrive ready and follow the running order. **Worth knowing.** A spot on a lineup may be unpaid, and a paid spot can still cost you more than it pays. **Your next three moves** Submit to one room the way its own page asks. Confirm the time, room, pay and arrival in writing. After the show, ask for clear feedback you can act on. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [After open mics: showcases, bringers and contests](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-after-open-mics.html) · [Club Directory: how each room books comics](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-clubs.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [Lafayette Comedy ↗](https://www.lafayettecomedy.com/submissions/comediansubmission) · [Bushwick Comedy ↗](https://www.bushwickcomedy.com/contact/out-of-town-submission) **Connects to** A booker brings you back · Guest spots & auditions · Produce one real show The common start · stop 5 of 5 Working short-set comic ### A booker brings you back From here, several routes can open at once. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-getting-rebooked.html) 14 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** The same producer, or a new buyer, decides to book you again. **What they want to see** A short set you can repeat, good timing, clear messages and a reference who will vouch for you. **Worth knowing.** A repeat booking is a sign of trust; you can start on the other routes before you have one. **Your next three moves** List the last three producers who saw you work. Get a current tape and a short booking bio together. Pick one paid route to test without dropping the others. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Why comedy clubs rebook certain comics](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-why-clubs-rebook-comics.html) · [How to write a comedian bio](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-comedian-bio.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [Lafayette Comedy ↗](https://www.lafayettecomedy.com/submissions/comediansubmission) **Connects to** Guest spots & auditions · Produce one real show · A tested clean set · An act for campuses · Several sets that adapt Club circuit · stop 1 of 5 Guest or showcase comic ### Guest spots & auditions Get watched by the people who book the slot. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-comedy-club-auditions.html) 18 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** A talent buyer, a club booker or a showcase’s organiser. **What they want to see** A short live set, and a tape made to that room’s own rules. **Worth knowing.** A guest spot is a chance to be seen; regular work comes from what you do with it. **Your next three moves** Find three clubs that publish how they book. Send each a submission made for it, with dates you can really do. Follow each room’s own process, and only that. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [How comedians get booked at comedy clubs](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-get-booked-at-comedy-clubs.html) · [Club Directory: each room’s way to get booked](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-clubs.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [Gotham Comedy Club ↗](https://gothamcomedyclub.com/New-Talent/) · [Lafayette Comedy ↗](https://www.lafayettecomedy.com/submissions/comediansubmission) · [Bushwick Comedy ↗](https://www.bushwickcomedy.com/contact/out-of-town-submission) **Connects to** Host and emcee work · A usable live tape Club circuit · stop 2 of 5 MC or house host ### Host and emcee work The buyer is trusting you with the whole room, not just a set. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-comedy-host-work.html) 19 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** A club’s talent buyer or the show’s producer. **What they want to see** A tight opening, the announcements, clean hand-offs to each act, a room under control and the show on time. **Worth knowing.** Hosting can be a career of its own, not only a step toward headlining. **Your next three moves** Write an opening and two ways into each act. Practise the introductions, and say every name right. Get a continuous clip of you hosting, and a producer as a reference. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [What a comedy host does](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-comedy-host.html) · [Who books comedy clubs](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-who-books-comedy-clubs.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [The Loony Bin, Tulsa ↗](https://tulsa.loonybincomedy.com/FreeForm/93aaa712-52ff-47a3-9da5-36acbe85def2/bca30415-8e4e-4ec5-817d-52222ac57427/Comedian_Booking_Info) · [Funny Girl Events ↗](https://www.funnygirlevents.com/submission.html) **Connects to** Feature bookings · Produce one real show Club circuit · stop 3 of 5 Feature act ### Feature bookings Longer is better only once the set holds a real audience. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-feature-bookings.html) 21 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** A club buyer, a producer or a touring headliner’s team. **What they want to see** A complete, proven middle-length set, and unedited video of you in that role. **Worth knowing.** Feature lengths differ from room to room: the Loony Bin in Tulsa asks for 30 minutes of tape, Funny Girl Events for 25. **Your next three moves** Build your set at two lengths you can rely on. Get a continuous tape of a full feature set. Read three buyers’ own pages for the footage they want. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [What a feature comedian does](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-feature-comedian.html) · [What goes on a demo reel](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-comedy-demo-reel.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [The Loony Bin, Tulsa ↗](https://tulsa.loonybincomedy.com/FreeForm/93aaa712-52ff-47a3-9da5-36acbe85def2/bca30415-8e4e-4ec5-817d-52222ac57427/Comedian_Booking_Info) · [Funny Girl Events ↗](https://www.funnygirlevents.com/submission.html) · [Lafayette Comedy ↗](https://www.lafayettecomedy.com/submissions/comediansubmission) **Connects to** Headline a full show · An act for campuses Club circuit · stop 4 of 5 Club headliner ### Headline a full show The headline slot carries more risk and more responsibility. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-comedy-headliner.html) 17 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** A club’s talent buyer, a promoter or a venue’s programming team. **What they want to see** A strong full-length set, a record of rooms you’ve worked, and ideally people who come to see you. **Worth knowing.** Headlining a show you put on and being booked to headline a club are different bookings. **Your next three moves** Test the full set in front of paying audiences. Get complete, uncut headlining footage. Write down the tickets you really sold, not your follower count. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [What a comedy headliner does](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-comedy-headliner.html) · [Moving up to bigger rooms and theaters](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-move-up-to-theaters.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [The Loony Bin, Tulsa ↗](https://tulsa.loonybincomedy.com/FreeForm/93aaa712-52ff-47a3-9da5-36acbe85def2/bca30415-8e4e-4ec5-817d-52222ac57427/Comedian_Booking_Info) · [Funny Girl Events ↗](https://www.funnygirlevents.com/submission.html) · [Lafayette Comedy ↗](https://www.lafayettecomedy.com/submissions/comediansubmission) **Connects to** A regular in the region’s clubs · A ticketed room that pays Club circuit · stop 5 of 5 Touring regional club act ### A regular in the region’s clubs Repeat bookings in more than one town make this a business. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-regional-club-circuit.html) 17 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** Several venues’ buyers and producers, each deciding for itself. **What they want to see** Repeat dates in different towns, clear deal terms and money left over after the trip. **Worth knowing.** Miles on the map are not profit; take the dates that pay. **Your next three moves** Judge each offer by what it leaves you, not the fee. Keep an up-to-date calendar of when you can work, and a list of buyers. Check what was promised against what was paid. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Tour Planner: what each stop leaves you](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-tour-planner.html) · [How far ahead comedians book](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-how-far-ahead-comedians-book.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [The IRS on gig work ↗](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work) · [Lafayette Comedy ↗](https://www.lafayettecomedy.com/submissions/comediansubmission) **Connects to** Try the towns nearby · Build repeat accounts Your own shows · stop 1 of 5 Comic and producer ### Produce one real show Make your own stage time, with the costs counted. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-produce-a-comedy-show.html) 17 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** You, and a venue that agrees in so many words to host the night. **What they want to see** The right room, a reason for the audience to come, a settlement agreed in advance and the comics paid as promised. **Worth knowing.** The show is yours, and so are its costs, its staff and the other comics on it. **Your next three moves** Agree the venue’s split and who sells the tickets. Book the lineup and agree their pay before you announce. Budget for a small crowd before you pay any deposit. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [How to produce a comedy show](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-produce-a-comedy-show.html) · [Stage Time’s Bootstrap a Room](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/stage-time.html#bootstrap) **Connects to** Build a crowd that comes back · Host and emcee work Your own shows · stop 2 of 5 Producer with a local draw ### Build a crowd that comes back A list of people who chose to hear from you survives any venue or app. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-build-a-comedy-crowd.html) 13 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** The ticket buyers, who decide whether to come back. **What they want to see** People who buy again, a mailing list they chose to join, and attendance figures you can show. **Worth knowing.** Likes and followers are not tickets sold. **Your next three moves** Invite people at the show to join your list. Count paid tickets separately from free ones. Ask the audience which comics they’d come back for. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Filling the Room: the posts that sell a show](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/promote-your-comedy-show.html) · [Tour Dates Widget: your dates on your own site](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/tour-dates-widget.html) **Connects to** A ticketed room that pays · Post strong stand-up clips Your own shows · stop 3 of 5 Independent showrunner ### A ticketed room that pays Profit, a good night for the audience, and a show you can run again: all three count. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-comedy-show-that-pays.html) 15 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** You, the ticket seller and the venue, agreeing on the money. **What they want to see** After every fee, the night covers the comics’ pay, the venue, the promotion and the other costs. **Worth knowing.** A small room can sell out and still lose money. **Your next three moves** Work the night’s numbers in the Math of a Gig. Write a settlement sheet for the door. Run a real show and compare the forecast with what happened. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Road Maps: the Math of a Gig, with your own numbers](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-road-maps.html#math-of-a-gig) · [Get Paid: the deal in writing](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/get-paid.html#deal) **In the buyers’ own words** [The IRS on gig work ↗](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work) **Connects to** Try the towns nearby · Headline a full show Your own shows · stop 4 of 5 Independent touring act ### Try the towns nearby Learn each market with small trips that pay for themselves. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-comedy-show-nearby-towns.html) 16 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** A local co-producer, a promoter, a venue and that town’s ticket buyers. **What they want to see** A show that already works, travel costs that make sense, and a partner who can reach that town’s audience. **Worth knowing.** One town selling out says little about the next town. **Your next three moves** Pick two towns within a drive you can sustain. Find one local producing partner in each town and check them out. Work out the fewest tickets each offer needs to break even. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Tour Planner](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-tour-planner.html) · [One-nighters or runs: planning tour dates](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-plan-comedy-tour-dates.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [The IRS on gig work ↗](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work) **Connects to** Run your own ticketed tour · A regular in the region’s clubs Your own shows · stop 5 of 5 Independent touring headliner ### Run your own ticketed tour Build a route because the demand is there, not because the map has gaps. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-run-your-own-comedy-tour.html) 16 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** You, and each promoter or venue under contract. **What they want to see** Ticket demand you can repeat, shows that come off, clear routing and clean settlements. **Worth knowing.** A national tour is one goal among many, not a requirement or a sign of wealth. **Your next three moves** Choose dates where people have already bought tickets. Confirm every hold, deposit and cancellation term. Compare what each town left you, and change the route. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [How to book your own comedy tour](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-book-your-own-comedy-tour.html) · [Tour Planner](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-tour-planner.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [The IRS on gig work ↗](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work) **Connects to** Release an album or special · A regular in the region’s clubs Private & corporate · stop 1 of 5 Clean, adaptable comic ### A tested clean set Give the buyer confidence that the act fits their guests. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-clean-comedy-for-events.html) 15 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** A private event’s planner or organiser, or an agency. **What they want to see** You can deliver suitable material, reliably, for a known audience and a set length. **Worth knowing.** Clean is a limit on the set, not on how funny it is. **Your next three moves** Build one clean 15–20 minute version of your act. Test it in several rooms with mixed audiences. Write a plain description of who it suits. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Clean vs. Dirty: twelve rounds on what goes in the act](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/clean-dirty.html) · [Private event comedy: parties, church, community](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-private-event-comedy.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [Funny Girl Events ↗](https://www.funnygirlevents.com/submission.html) · [GP College Entertainment ↗](https://www.gpentertainment.com/prospective-artists.php) **Connects to** A package a buyer can say yes to Private & corporate · stop 2 of 5 Comic ready for business ### A package a buyer can say yes to A complete, accurate package makes the decision quicker. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-comedian-press-kit.html) 14 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** A buyer, or their representative, weighing up an act. **What they want to see** A clip that fits, a short bio, a photo, references, your dates and clear terms. **Worth knowing.** A glossy press kit supports a reliable live set; it can’t stand in for one. **Your next three moves** Prepare a short clean clip and a longer sample. Write a 100-word bio with true credits only. Make a one-page offer and a booking checklist. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [A comedian bio, headshots and credits](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-comedian-bio.html) · [What goes on a demo reel](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-comedy-demo-reel.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [GP College Entertainment ↗](https://www.gpentertainment.com/prospective-artists.php) · [Funny Girl Events ↗](https://www.funnygirlevents.com/submission.html) **Connects to** Pitch the right buyers Private & corporate · stop 3 of 5 Comic booking direct ### Pitch the right buyers The question is whether this event suits your act. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-pitch-corporate-comedy-gigs.html) 13 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** A corporate planner, an association or a private event’s organiser. **What they want to see** An offer made for that event, with a clear set length, what you need from the venue and a price. **Worth knowing.** Corporate events differ; each wants its own material and format. **Your next three moves** Choose five kinds of event that suit you, not random companies. Send one courteous, specific note to the person who books. Ask about the audience, timing, content and sound before you quote. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [How corporate comedy gigs work](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-corporate-comedy-gigs.html) · [Private event comedy](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-private-event-comedy.html) **Connects to** Close a written agreement Private & corporate · stop 4 of 5 Comic under contract ### Close a written agreement Settle the deal before you travel or perform. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-comedy-gig-contract.html) 14 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** The buyer and you, directly or through a representative. **What they want to see** In writing: the date, set length, fee, travel, when you’re paid, cancellation and the technical needs. **Worth knowing.** “We’ll take care of you” is a promise; a written deal is a settlement. **Your next three moves** Work from a written deal checklist. Confirm who provides the sound and who pays for travel. Keep the signed terms and the payment confirmations. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Get Paid: the deal in writing](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/get-paid.html#deal) · [How comedians get paid after a show](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-how-comedians-get-paid.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [The IRS on gig work ↗](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work) **Connects to** Build repeat accounts Private & corporate · stop 5 of 5 An event buyer’s first call ### Build repeat accounts A few buyers who come back can matter more than thousands of followers. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-repeat-corporate-bookings.html) 14 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** Organisations, planners or agencies booking you again. **What they want to see** Events that went well on record, referrals from clients and quick follow-through. **Worth knowing.** One big fee is one date; a steady market is several buyers coming back. **Your next three moves** Follow up after each event, without pressure. Ask before you quote anyone’s testimonial. Track repeat bookings and profit by kind of client. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [How corporate comedy gigs work](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-corporate-comedy-gigs.html) · [The Working Comic: taxes, corporate and college dates](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/working-comic.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [The IRS on gig work ↗](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work) **Connects to** A regular in the region’s clubs · A campus act that’s asked back Colleges & campuses · stop 1 of 5 College-ready comic ### An act for campuses A campus is a buyer with a job to do, not just another comedy room. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-college-ready-comedy-act.html) 17 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** A student programming board or a campus’s talent buyer. **What they want to see** A well-tested set that fits the college’s and the event’s own rules. **Worth knowing.** Each college has its own rules, audience and content limits. **Your next three moves** Watch real campus stand-up shows. Build and test college-appropriate material. Find out which campuses in your region book stand-up. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [College comedy gigs: how comics get booked](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-college-comedy-gigs.html) · [Clean vs. Dirty](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/clean-dirty.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [GP College Entertainment ↗](https://www.gpentertainment.com/prospective-artists.php) · [NACA ↗](https://www.naca.org/events/naca-live/performing-exhibiting.html) **Connects to** Your campus submission kit Colleges & campuses · stop 2 of 5 Applying to the college market ### Your campus submission kit Send what the application asks for, in the form it asks. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-college-comedy-submission-kit.html) 16 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** An agency, a campus’s selection committee, or both. **What they want to see** Demo video that suits a school, a short bio, photos and the bookings you’ve really had. **Worth knowing.** Each buyer asks for its own media and credentials. **Your next three moves** Make a clean, college-appropriate sample of 5–8 minutes. Prepare a short bio and your pricing. Check your video links open without signing in. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [College comedy gigs](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-college-comedy-gigs.html) · [What goes on a demo reel](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-comedy-demo-reel.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [GP College Entertainment ↗](https://www.gpentertainment.com/prospective-artists.php) · [NACA ↗](https://www.naca.org/events/naca-live/performing-exhibiting.html) **Connects to** Reach the campus buyers Colleges & campuses · stop 3 of 5 Act showcasing or pitching to campuses ### Reach the campus buyers Spend on reaching a market only with a plan the evidence backs. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-campus-showcases-and-college-agents.html) 16 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** Campus buyers, agencies and the people who choose an association’s showcases. **What they want to see** Eligibility, membership, fees, deadlines and show materials that suit. **Worth knowing.** NACA is a paid professional route; you can work at a college without it. **Your next three moves** Compare going to campuses direct with signing to an agency. Read the event’s current eligibility and full costs. Apply only where the buyers look like a fit. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [College comedy gigs](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-college-comedy-gigs.html) · [What a comedy agent does, or book yourself](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-comedy-agent.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [NACA ↗](https://www.naca.org/events/naca-live/performing-exhibiting.html) · [GP College Entertainment ↗](https://www.gpentertainment.com/prospective-artists.php) **Connects to** Your first campus date Colleges & campuses · stop 4 of 5 Booked campus comic ### Your first campus date How you handle the first campus date shapes the next one. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-first-college-comedy-gig.html) 18 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** The campus buyer with authority, or your agent under contract. **What they want to see** A confirmed booking, a set that fits and a clean settlement after. **Worth knowing.** Travel and the campus’s own rules are in the contract; read them there. **Your next three moves** Confirm the room, the tech, the audience rules and the contacts. Prepare a version of the show for that campus. Keep the paperwork, and settle the contract promptly. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Get Paid: the deal in writing](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/get-paid.html#deal) · [College comedy gigs](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-college-comedy-gigs.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [GP College Entertainment ↗](https://www.gpentertainment.com/prospective-artists.php) · [The IRS on gig work ↗](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work) **Connects to** A campus act that’s asked back Colleges & campuses · stop 5 of 5 Established college-market act ### A campus act that’s asked back Repeat dates are the signal; a showcase is only the way in. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-college-comedy-rebookings.html) 15 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** Schools, buyers who come back and the agents who represent you. **What they want to see** A run of good campus dates, references, and travel routed so it pays. **Worth knowing.** A conference showcase is a door; the campus tour comes from the dates that follow. **Your next three moves** Look at which campus shows led to referrals. Keep your materials and fees up to date. Route dates by region to cut empty travel. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Tour Planner](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-tour-planner.html) · [The Working Comic](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/working-comic.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [GP College Entertainment ↗](https://www.gpentertainment.com/prospective-artists.php) · [NACA ↗](https://www.naca.org/events/naca-live/performing-exhibiting.html) · [The IRS on gig work ↗](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work) **Connects to** Build repeat accounts · Several sets that adapt Cruises & travel · stop 1 of 5 Act for the travel market ### Several sets that adapt Ship and travel buyers want long, versatile sets: build them first. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-cruise-comedian-sets.html) 15 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** A travel entertainment buyer or an approved agent. **What they want to see** Long, reliable material that suits particular audiences and the venue’s rules. **Worth knowing.** One agency asks for two shows of 30–55 minutes; another for 90+ minutes of clean material. **Your next three moves** Add up your adult and family-friendly set lengths. Compare two buyers’ own requirements, word for word. Test longer sets without leaning on crowd work. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Casino gigs and life as a cruise ship comedian](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-casino-and-cruise-comedy.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [Warshaw Entertainment ↗](https://warshawentertainment.squarespace.com/soloists) · [Lime Entertainment ↗](https://lime.inc/performers/dj-techs-hosts/) **Connects to** Send an audition that convinces Cruises & travel · stop 2 of 5 Cruise or resort applicant ### Send an audition that convinces Many cruise roles want an experienced act: read each one’s terms. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-cruise-comedian-audition.html) 17 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** An entertainment agent or the cruise line’s own buyer. **What they want to see** An unedited performance reel, your real experience, your availability and readiness to travel. **Worth knowing.** Ship work comes through the line or an established agent; a fee up front for a “guaranteed” placement is not one. **Your next three moves** Choose the line’s own route in, or an established agent. Send only the media and documents asked for. Keep a dated list of applications and replies. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Casino and cruise comedy](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-casino-and-cruise-comedy.html) · [The Hollywood Effect: knowing a real offer](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/pay-to-play-comedy.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [Warshaw Entertainment ↗](https://warshawentertainment.squarespace.com/soloists) · [Princess Cruises Entertainment ↗](https://www.princesscruisesentertainment.com/life-onboard) **Connects to** Weigh the contract Cruises & travel · stop 3 of 5 Up for a ship or resort booking ### Weigh the contract A booking is worth the whole contract, not the headline fee. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-cruise-comedian-contract.html) 13 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** The employer or booking representative named in the contract. **What they want to see** Clear pay, travel, housing, length, number of shows and cancellation terms. **Worth knowing.** Ship work can come with its own employment agreement and visa requirements. **Your next three moves** Confirm who employs you and who can change the terms. Read the travel, passport, insurance and onboard duties. Work out what you keep after any costs that aren’t repaid. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Get Paid: the deal in writing](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/get-paid.html#deal) · [Casino and cruise comedy](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-casino-and-cruise-comedy.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [Princess Cruises Entertainment ↗](https://www.princesscruisesentertainment.com/life-onboard) · [The IRS on gig work ↗](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work) **Connects to** Complete a travel engagement Cruises & travel · stop 4 of 5 Booked ship or resort comedian ### Complete a travel engagement Versatility and easy logistics count as much as set length. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-cruise-ship-comedian-life.html) 14 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** The ship’s entertainment team or the resort’s show director. **What they want to see** Reliable shows across every one you’re given, and a professional in a shared workplace. **Worth knowing.** A set that works in a club still has to be tested on a ship’s audience. **Your next three moves** Keep track of each version of the show and how it went. Meet the technical, arrival and venue requirements. Record your credits as they are, and what you were paid. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Casino and cruise comedy](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-casino-and-cruise-comedy.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [Princess Cruises Entertainment ↗](https://www.princesscruisesentertainment.com/life-onboard) · [Warshaw Entertainment ↗](https://warshawentertainment.squarespace.com/soloists) **Connects to** Travel bookings that repeat Cruises & travel · stop 5 of 5 Returning travel-market act ### Travel bookings that repeat Renewals and contracts that pay define success, not miles or ships. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-cruise-comedian-repeat-bookings.html) 14 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** A cruise line, a resort or an entertainment agent booking you again. **What they want to see** Good evaluations, a clean contract history, current material and dates you can really keep. **Worth knowing.** Travel-heavy schedules trade time at home for bookings. **Your next three moves** Weigh the schedule against your life at home. Refresh the material and the audition video. Compare what you’d keep before signing another run. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Casino and cruise comedy](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-casino-and-cruise-comedy.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [Princess Cruises Entertainment ↗](https://www.princesscruisesentertainment.com/life-onboard) · [Warshaw Entertainment ↗](https://warshawentertainment.squarespace.com/soloists) · [The IRS on gig work ↗](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work) **Connects to** A campus act that’s asked back · Build repeat accounts Discovery & recordings · stop 1 of 5 Working live comic with stand-up worth sharing ### Post strong stand-up clips Use recordings to show the act, not to stand in for it. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-stand-up-clips.html) 14 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** Audiences decide to watch; buyers may see the work too. **What they want to see** A strong excerpt, permission to film, and an easy way to the next live show. **Worth knowing.** Views are attention; tickets are the audience. **Your next three moves** Pick one real clip from a good room. Check the filming rights and the venue’s permission. Show viewers where to find a live date. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Comedy clips on TikTok, Reels and Shorts](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-comedy-clips.html) · [Filling the Room: filming a set](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/promote-your-comedy-show.html#film) **Connects to** A festival or showcase that picks you · A usable live tape Discovery & recordings · stop 2 of 5 Festival or curated showcase comic ### A festival or showcase that picks you Choose stages where your audience or your buyers will be. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-comedy-festivals-and-showcases.html) 18 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** A festival’s selection committee or a show’s producer. **What they want to see** A strong application that meets that programme’s eligibility and stand-up format. **Worth knowing.** Festivals can cost a lot; being picked opens doors, and the bookings come from what follows. **Your next three moves** Find two stand-up events that publish their rules. Compare the fees, the travel and who will really see you. Apply with exactly the live footage they ask for. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [How to get into comedy festivals](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-get-into-comedy-festivals.html) · [Submission Deadlines: the calls open now](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-festival-submissions.html) **In the buyers’ own words** [NACA ↗](https://www.naca.org/events/naca-live/performing-exhibiting.html) **Connects to** A stand-up set on television · Guest spots & auditions Discovery & recordings · stop 3 of 5 Late-night stand-up comic ### A stand-up set on television The set has to stand on its own, and spots are few. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-stand-up-on-tv.html) 17 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** The show’s talent team and producers. **What they want to see** An excellent short set that suits the show’s format and its editorial rules. **Worth knowing.** A late-night set is a credit; the career is still built in the rooms. **Your next three moves** Develop an exact broadcast-length clean version. Study the stand-up sets the show has aired. Keep your reel, credits and representation details accurate. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [How comedians get on TV: late-night and streaming](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-comedians-on-tv.html) **Connects to** Release an album or special Discovery & recordings · stop 4 of 5 Recorded stand-up artist ### Release an album or special A release is a lasting record and a way in for new audiences. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-release-a-comedy-special.html) 13 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** You, or a real production and distribution partner. **What they want to see** A full set tested again and again, a strong recording, and clear rights and release terms. **Worth knowing.** Releasing a full hour retires that material in the public eye. **Your next three moves** Confirm the recording rights with the venue and the other comics. Budget the production, editing, clearances and distribution. Plan the next live hour before you release this one. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [How to make and release a comedy special](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-make-a-comedy-special.html) · [Comedy albums, vinyl and books](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/answer-comedy-albums-and-books.html) **Connects to** An audience that buys tickets · Run your own ticketed tour Discovery & recordings · stop 5 of 5 A live comic people come out for ### An audience that buys tickets An audience of your own can open several paid routes at once. [Open the full roadmap →](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/career-atlas-comedy-audience-that-buys-tickets.html) 13 steps, each with its “done when”, where to send it, the notes to send and the proof to keep **Who decides** Audiences, choosing a show. **What they want to see** Repeat sales in your town, referrals, fans who signed up to hear from you, and demand in each market. **Worth knowing.** Followers, streams and TV credits are each different from tickets sold. **Your next three moves** Track paid attendance separately from views. Build a direct list of fans who chose to join it. Test a small paid date in a town where the demand shows. A link to your proof: a tape, a booking, a review Your private note **Go deeper** [Filling the Room](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/promote-your-comedy-show.html) · [Tour Dates Widget](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/tour-dates-widget.html) **Connects to** Try the towns nearby · Headline a full show Your next move ## Four answers, one good next stop There's no ladder by age and no pass mark. Say where your act is and what work you want, and the map points to a practical next step. Change the answers any time; they stay in this browser. A good next stop ### First stage-ready five Start with material you can test this week. 1. Write and time a five-minute draft. 2. Find two nearby open mics and read how sign-up works. 3. Choose the one bit you most need to test. Open this stop → The set length is your own measure, not a test. Each booker decides what their show needs. #### Where else to start Never been up? The [Stand-Up Starter Course](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/how-to-start-stand-up-comedy.html) takes you from a blank page to your first open mic in ten short modules. On the club route already? [Stage Time's ladder](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/stage-time.html#ladder) keeps the rung you're on, and [Road Maps' Where are you?](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-road-maps.html#where-are-you) lays out each stage's next ninety days. What buyers ask for ## 9 buyers, in their own words Published submission rules from clubs, a producer, a college agency, the campus buyers' association and two cruise agencies, each checked on its own page on 10 November 2026. They differ, and that difference is the lesson: send each buyer what its page asks for, and read the page again before you send. **What each buyer's own page asks a comedian to send** | The buyer | What its page asks for | Read it | | --- | --- | --- | | **Gotham Comedy Club, New York** Club · its New Talent Showcase | A 2–5 minute tape with clean audio and a clear view of you on stage. | [Its page ↗](https://gothamcomedyclub.com/New-Talent/) | | **Bushwick Comedy, Brooklyn** Club · comics from out of town | Your best five minutes as a YouTube link, a definite window of dates, and the tape in at least two months before them. | [Its page ↗](https://www.bushwickcomedy.com/contact/out-of-town-submission) | | **Lafayette Comedy** Club · openers, features, headliners | A 5–10 minute stand-up video, not set to private. Its own examples of set lengths: an opener 5–10 minutes, a feature 10–25, a headliner 40–60. References who can vouch for you. | [Its page ↗](https://www.lafayettecomedy.com/submissions/comediansubmission) | | **Funny Girl Events** Producer · features and headliners | One continuous, uncut video of a full set: emcee 15 minutes, feature 25, headliner 45. Clear sound and light, no explicit language. For comics who already feature or headline at clubs. | [Its page ↗](https://www.funnygirlevents.com/submission.html) | | **The Loony Bin, Tulsa** Club · MC, feature, headliner | Full-length, unedited set video: 15 minutes to be considered as MC, 30 as feature, 45 as headliner. | [Its page ↗](https://tulsa.loonybincomedy.com/FreeForm/93aaa712-52ff-47a3-9da5-36acbe85def2/bca30415-8e4e-4ec5-817d-52222ac57427/Comedian_Booking_Info) | | **GP College Entertainment** Agency · colleges | At least 5–8 minutes of clean, college-appropriate material on video, a bio of 200 words at most, two high-resolution photos and your college dates. It tells a new artist to expect at least a year to build momentum. | [Its page ↗](https://www.gpentertainment.com/prospective-artists.php) | | **NACA Live** Association · campus buyers | Showcasing takes national associate membership, and each act needs a bio, photo and pricing. The application fee is $195; NACA Live runs 19–22 February 2027 in Columbus, Ohio. | [Its page ↗](https://www.naca.org/events/naca-live/performing-exhibiting.html) | | **Warshaw Entertainment** Agency · cruises | An original family-friendly show and an adult (18+) show, each 30–55 minutes long. Comics are typically away three to seven days at a time. | [Its page ↗](https://warshawentertainment.squarespace.com/soloists) | | **Lime Entertainment** Agency · cruises | 90+ minutes of clean material. | [Its page ↗](https://lime.inc/performers/dj-techs-hosts/) | Your booking pack ### Easy to say yes to Tick what you have ready. A good pack makes a booker's decision quicker; the set itself is still what they're buying. A current live performance link that opens for anyone Footage that matches the role you're asking for A 100-word stand-up bio, with your credits as they are A current headshot or promo photo Your home town and the dates you can really do References and credits a booker can check Your contact details and the deal you're proposing 0 of 7 ready The [Club Directory](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-clubs.html) gives each room's own way to get booked. Before you say yes ### What the date leaves you A gig and a paycheck are different numbers. Work it out with your own offer: - [Road Maps: the Math of a Gig](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-road-maps.html#math-of-a-gig), a hired date or a night you put on yourself, with your own fee, miles, tickets and costs. - [Get Paid, Get Back](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/get-paid.html#deal): the deal in writing before you go. - [The Tour Planner](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-tour-planner.html): what each stop of a run leaves you. - [The IRS on gig work ↗](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work): keep your records and receipts through the year, and report all your income. ### Where to send it 62 places a comic can send a submission, each checked on 10 November 2026: 51 published routes, 3 seasonal, 2 to check on the venue's own site first, and 6 closed until their next call. A published route means the buyer says how to apply, not that it has an opening. A venue's contact page isn't a submission inbox, and a window that has closed says closed. Beyond these, the [Club Directory](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-clubs.html) lists 346 rooms in 50 states and Washington, D.C., 183 of them saying how a comic gets booked, and [Your Team’s directory](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-agents.html#find) lists 128 bookers and talent buyers, 38 promoters and 52 agents. Published route New York, NY · Showcase · Email #### Gotham Comedy Club, New Talent A 2–5 minute tape with clean audio and a clear view of you on stage, to be considered for a New Talent Showcase. **Worth knowing.** A showcase spot is stage time, not a paid club booking. [Its page ↗](https://gothamcomedyclub.com/New-Talent/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Brooklyn, NY · Showcase · Form #### EastVille Comedy Club, Rising Stars A short bio and a performance video link anyone can open, for the weekly Rising Stars Showcase and other new-talent shows. **Worth knowing.** The form also signs you up for an alert when the next showcase is being booked. [Its page ↗](https://www.eastvillecomedy.com/submissions/new-talent) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Brooklyn, NY · Club spots · Form #### Bushwick Comedy Club, local comics Local comics have their own submission link; producers pitch a show by email. [Its page ↗](https://www.bushwickcomedy.com/contact/local-submission) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Brooklyn, NY · Club spots · Form #### Bushwick Comedy Club, out-of-town comics Your best five minutes as a YouTube link and a definite window of dates, sent at least two months before them. It books entirely from video, and answers only the comics it picks. [Its page ↗](https://www.bushwickcomedy.com/contact/out-of-town-submission) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route New York, NY · Independent show · Form #### Tight Pants Comedy Producers of a showcase at St. Marks Comedy Club; the site’s “Comics: Submit Tape” link is the way in. [Its page ↗](https://tightpantscomedy.com/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route New York, NY · Produce a show · Pitch #### Caveat, pitch a show Pitch a whole show of 60–90 minutes: Caveat mostly hosts comedy that is smart, nerdy or informative. Not a route to a guest spot. [Its page ↗](https://caveat.nyc/pitch) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Forest Park, IL · Club spots · Form #### BABS Comedy Club, Local Laughs Apply through its form for the Friday Local Laughs Showcase; one person books the comics and watches every clip sent. [Its page ↗](https://www.babscomedyclub.com/Comedian-Bookings-Submissions) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Nashville, TN · Club spots · Email #### Zanies Nashville Email a 5–10 minute clip, a paragraph about you and your comedy, and any stage references, venues played and headliners you’ve featured for. **Worth knowing.** Its booker gets in touch only if there’s an opening. [Its page ↗](https://nashville.zanies.com/general-info/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Los Angeles, CA · Club spots · Form #### Laugh Factory Hollywood A video submission form on its website for its booking team, and a Tuesday open mic, 5:30–6:30 PM, with sign-up in person from 5:00. **Worth knowing.** Its FAQ says neither the form nor the open mic guarantees a booking. [Its page ↗](https://www.laughfactory.com/clubs/hollywood/faqs) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Burbank, CA · Produce a show · Form #### Flappers, independent producers A proposal for a show you produce: the concept, the room you want, your audience and your marketing plan. **Worth knowing.** The form asks whether you can buy $200 worth of tickets to hold the space: know the terms before you agree. [Its page ↗](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc6uMEmqhr-Y5PNwJzGKC_bn8dutqbIBNCumMhGlJFBgTT7Ig/viewform) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Eugene, OR · Headline · Email #### Lexy’s Comedy Club, headliners Headlining is for comics with an established body of work and a 45–60 minute set; its page lists what to send for each kind of opportunity. [Its page ↗](https://www.lexyscomedyclub.com/booking) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Eugene, OR · Audition · Form #### Lexy’s Comedy Club, Eugene’s Got Jokes A 5–10 minute set as a video link, a headshot and your website or EPK, to audition with two 5-minute sets before a live audience and a panel of bookers. **Worth knowing.** Auditioning means agreeing to be recorded: read its recording and media consent first. [Its page ↗](https://www.lexyscomedyclub.com/auditions) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Seattle, WA · Audition · Form #### Laughs Comedy Club Its auditions and booking sign-up form; the club’s founder is its new-talent coordinator. [Its page ↗](https://laughscomedyclub.com/auditions/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Seattle, WA · Club spots · Form #### Emerald City Comedy Club Its contact page says it is accepting comics’ submissions, through the form it links. **Worth knowing.** Its email address on that page is for tickets, not bookings. [Its page ↗](https://www.emeraldcitycomedy.com/contact) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Lafayette, LA · Club spots · Form #### Lafayette Comedy A 5–10 minute stand-up video, not set to private, the role you want (host, opener, feature, headliner) and references who can vouch for you. Its own examples of set lengths: a feature 10–25 minutes. **Worth knowing.** It mostly brings in national touring comics; the showcases are where it books others. [Its page ↗](https://www.lafayettecomedy.com/submissions/comediansubmission) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Cleveland, OH · Independent show · Email #### Henceforth Comedy A high-quality video of a recent five-minute set and your credits: festivals, clubs, television and other professional bookings. **Worth knowing.** It can’t answer every submission; send again after 90 days with a new video. [Its page ↗](https://henceforthcomedy.com/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Dayton, OH · Independent show · Form #### Gem City Comedy A form for comics in the Dayton and greater Miami Valley scene: tell it about you and add a clip of your work, to be kept in mind for future shows. [Its page ↗](https://form.jotform.com/253267957677073) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Tulsa, OK · Club spots · Form #### Bricktown Comedy Club The club’s contact page links BARK Entertainment’s comic submission form, shared by its clubs: choose Bricktown Comedy Club, Tulsa, and the positions you want (MC, showcase, feature, headliner), with a video (5 minutes recommended), the clubs you’ve worked in the past 12 months and any referrals from comics who work for it. **Worth knowing.** Once you’re passed, you go on its avails email, sent at least once a quarter: the only way to submit for dates. It may not answer every submission, and it welcomes new video every six months. [Its page ↗](https://barkentertainment.wufoo.com/forms/qlehqqh0c279y1/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Tulsa, OK · Open mic · Form #### Bricktown Comedy Club, open mic Sign up online between the 1st and the 15th for the next month’s open mics, or arrive between 6:00 and 6:50 PM for one of three walk-in spots. **Worth knowing.** An open mic is stage time, not a paid spot. [Its page ↗](https://bricktowntulsa.com/pages/open-mic) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Houston, TX · Independent show · Form #### Punchlines on the Patio, Houston Its contact form has a choice for “comedian looking for stage time”. **Worth knowing.** It has many requests for a few spots a show. [Its page ↗](https://www.punchlinesonthepatio.com/contact) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Corpus Christi, TX · Independent show · Form #### Punchlines on the Patio, Corpus Christi Its booking form has a choice for “comedian looking for stage time”. [Its page ↗](https://www.punchlinesonthepatio.com/booking-1) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Florida, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Texas · Show / roster · Form #### Comic Cure An online form to be considered for its shows in several regions, and a way to update your video link later. **Worth knowing.** Dates for particular events on the page may be past ones. [Its page ↗](https://comiccure.com/comic-signup) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Nationwide · College market · Email #### GP College Entertainment At least 5–8 minutes of clean, college-appropriate material on video, a bio of 200 words at most, two high-resolution photos and your college dates. **Worth knowing.** A submission to an agency isn’t a booking or a promise of representation. [Its page ↗](https://www.gpentertainment.com/prospective-artists.php) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Nationwide · Cruise market · Form #### Warshaw Entertainment An original family-friendly show and an adult (18+) show, each 30–55 minutes; comics are typically away three to seven days at a time. **Worth knowing.** Read the agency’s and the cruise line’s contracts before signing. [Its page ↗](https://warshawentertainment.squarespace.com/soloists) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Southeastern Virginia and beyond · Show / roster · Form #### Wild Hair Entertainment A form to join its list of comics asked for availability: your experience, a bio and a link to a 5–10 minute performance clip. **Worth knowing.** Being on an availability list isn’t an offer of work. [Its page ↗](https://wildhairentertainment.com/comedian/application.php) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Nationwide · Clean comedy · Form #### Clean Comedy Collective Its comedian form, the first step to booking gigs with the clean-comedy network; producers have a form of their own. **Worth knowing.** Joining the network doesn’t promise a date or a fee. [Its page ↗](https://cleancomedycollective.com/applications/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Houston, TX · Independent show · Form #### Comedy Space Apply to work with it: one to three video clips (YouTube or Vimeo) and your experience. [Its page ↗](https://comedyspace.com/contact/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Oklahoma City, OK · Club spots · Form #### Bricktown Comedy Club The club’s contact page links BARK Entertainment’s comic submission form, shared by its clubs: choose Bricktown Comedy Club, Oklahoma City, and the positions you want (MC, showcase, feature, headliner), with a video (5 minutes recommended), the clubs you’ve worked in the past 12 months and any referrals from comics who work for it. **Worth knowing.** Once you’re passed, you go on its avails email, sent at least once a quarter: the only way to submit for dates. It may not answer every submission, and it welcomes new video every six months. [Its page ↗](https://barkentertainment.wufoo.com/forms/qlehqqh0c279y1/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Oklahoma City, OK · Open mic · Form #### Bricktown Comedy Club, open mic Open mics on Tuesdays and Wednesdays: sign up online between the 1st and the 15th for the next month’s, with the lineup emailed on the month’s last Wednesday, or arrive between 6:00 and 6:50 PM for one of three walk-in spots. **Worth knowing.** An open mic is stage time, not a paid spot. [Its page ↗](https://www.bricktowncomedy.com/pages/open-mic) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Oklahoma City and Tulsa, OK, and its other clubs · Club spots · Form #### BARK Entertainment, paid MC What it looks for in a paid MC, before you apply: a clean 10–15 minute set, no worse than PG-13 even when the headliner works dirty, and a comic who’s easy to work with, polite to staff, sober on stage and keen to learn the MC announcements. **Worth knowing.** Its page calls MCing a difficult position that sets the tone of the night, and not for everyone. [Its page ↗](https://www.barkentertainment.com/paid-mc) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Tulsa, OK · Club spots · Email #### The Loony Bin Email a full-length, unedited set: 15 minutes for MC, 30 for feature, 45 for headliner. With it: the full-week clubs you’ve worked in that position, your avails for the next 12 months, a bio and headshot or press pack, any recommendations, your phone and email, and your social media. **Worth knowing.** It won’t download a program or sign up to a service to watch a video, and it gets in touch only if your act is a match. [Its page ↗](https://tulsa.loonybincomedy.com/FreeForm/93aaa712-52ff-47a3-9da5-36acbe85def2/bca30415-8e4e-4ec5-817d-52222ac57427/Comedian_Booking_Info) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Raleigh, NC · Festival · Form #### Raleigh Comedy Festival, comic submissions Your best unedited 5-minute tape in front of a live audience, on a link that stays active through February 2027. Its 2027 call closes on 15 November 2026: $25 for a feature comic, free for comics who live in North Carolina. The festival runs 18–20 March 2027, with two sets for each comic picked. **Worth knowing.** Broken or private links are disqualified without a refund. The festival doesn’t record the sets; you may film your own. [Its page ↗](https://raleighcomedyfestival.com/submissions) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Chicago, IL · Festival · Form #### Windy City Comedy Festival, 2027 submissions A continuous 5–7 minute set of your original material, with no “best of” or highlight reels, unlisted but not private. Open since 1 November 2026: $20 in November, $25 in December, $30 late. Comics must be 21 or older; the comics it picks hear in April 2027, for the festival on 5–8 August 2027. **Worth knowing.** Its page gives both January and 14 February 2027 as the close: send by January to be safe. Fees aren’t refunded, and it’s a showcase with no cash prizes. [Its page ↗](https://www.windycitycomedyfest.com/submissions2027) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Calgary, AB, Canada · Competition · Form #### FunnyFest Comedy Competition A link to an unedited 5-minute performance, a bio of 100 words or less and your tier (opener, middle or headliner), for comics who aren’t yet headliners. No fee to apply; applications close on 1 February 2027, for rounds in Calgary from 8 April 2027 and one round on Zoom. **Worth knowing.** It normally answers only the comics it picks, and the material must be your own. [Its page ↗](https://funnyfest.com/comedy-competition/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Temecula, CA · Festival · Form #### LouddMouth Comedy Festival Its home page says comedian submissions are open for its 2027 spring festival, 1–4 April 2027 in Temecula, through the form it links; the form lists comedian competitions, showcases and networking among the festival’s events. **Worth knowing.** The home page gives no closing date or fee: read the form through before you send. [Its page ↗](https://louddmouthcomedyfestival.com/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route London, England · Distribution · Form #### NextUp Comedy, submit a recording Submissions of existing recordings, from a 10-minute set to a long-form special, filmed on at least two HD cameras with clean sound and an audible audience, for its apps and partner platforms. It can also film or stream a show. **Worth knowing.** Its catalog is mostly British comedy. Read the rights, the term and the territory before you agree to anything. [Its page ↗](https://nextupcomedy.com/pages/be-on-nextup) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Eugene, OR · Produce a show · Email #### Lexy’s Comedy Club, produce your own show For producers with a proven show concept, an established audience and a track record: a show description, promotional images, a promo reel from the actual show, links to past shows, attendance and ticket sales averages or reports, your website or EPK, and the dates you want. **Worth knowing.** It is building a permanent home in Eugene; for now its shows are pop-ups. [Its page ↗](https://www.lexyscomedyclub.com/booking) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Brooklyn, NY · Open mic · In person #### EastVille Comedy Club, open mics Open mics through the week: comics sign up in person, arriving 30 minutes early, first come, with the lineup set on the day; five minutes a comic, varying with the lineup’s size. **Worth knowing.** No email or phone sign-ups, and a one-drink minimum for comics. An open mic is stage time, not a paid spot. [Its page ↗](https://www.eastvillecomedy.com/open-mic) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Lakewood, OH (Cleveland) · Bucket spots · In person #### Henceforth Comedy, One More Joke For comics based in Cleveland: at One More Joke, its Tuesday showcase at The Winchester in Lakewood, comics put their names in the bucket for a chance at a one-minute spot. Comics who can’t attend regularly may send a five-minute video instead. **Worth knowing.** Bucket spots aren’t guaranteed; its page says the more it sees you perform and work on your act, the more likely it is to consider you for a longer showcase spot. [Its page ↗](https://henceforthcomedy.com/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Burbank, CA · Audition · In person #### Flappers Comedy Club, auditions Happy Hour Auditions on Wednesday nights, 6:30–7:30 PM in its bar: pre-register by claiming a free ticket on its website, and bring your best two-minute set. Feedback comes afterwards. **Worth knowing.** Slots fill fast: it sees the first 25 comics who sign up. [Its page ↗](https://flapperscomedy.com/auditions/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Denver, CO · Showcase · Sign-up #### Comedy Works, New Talent Night Sign up on its New Talent site for each week you can perform; it picks the comics who have signed up most and gone longest without a set, and first-timers get a two-minute set. Comics visiting Denver use the stand-by list at the upstairs bar, out from 6:30 to 7 PM on show nights. **Worth knowing.** Its FAQ says a first set generally takes 8 to 10 weeks of signing up. [Its page ↗](https://nts.comedyworks.com/faq) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route New York area, and touring · Clean comedy · Email #### The Ivy League of Comedy and Liberty Comedy, spots for comics Paid spots on clean shows at venues public and private: email a link to at least ten minutes of unedited video (or a late-night TV set), a bio or list of credits, at least one high-resolution professional headshot and, if you have one, a reference from a comic it already works with. **Worth knowing.** Its Ivy League of Comedy shows book full-time working comics; its Liberty Comedy shows can book comics with less experience, for shorter sets. [Its page ↗](https://www.ivystandup.com/spots) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route International · Cruise market · Form #### Lime Entertainment, comics Comics with 90+ minutes of clean material and the range for very different audiences: send videos of your stand-up through its application. **Worth knowing.** Its FAQ says that where a line’s arrangement calls for it, it takes a commission from the salary on board: read its terms before you sign. [Its page ↗](https://lime.inc/performers/comics/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Carnival Cruise Line ships · Cruise line · Through an agent #### Carnival Entertainment, comedians Guest entertainers come to it through an agent. For comics: 90 minutes of different material (a 30-minute family-friendly show and two 30-minute adult shows), credits and bio as a PDF, a headshot, and two videos of show work, one PG and one adult. A gig is five performances, repeats included. **Worth knowing.** It asks agents who aren’t yet set up with it to contact its guest entertainer team: without an agent, start with one. [Its page ↗](https://www.carnivalentertainment.com/opportunities/comedy-variety) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Royal Caribbean ships · Cruise line · Profile #### Royal Caribbean, Headliner Entertainment Its Headliner Entertainment careers list a Comedians position: professional comics who can work a comedy club or a theater setup, with at least an hour of varied material, clean and adult. Apply online by creating a profile on its site. **Worth knowing.** Its list of positions loads with the page’s script. You must be 18 or older to be hired. [Its page ↗](https://royalcaribbeanentertainment.com/headliner/careers/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Minneapolis, MN · Cruise market · Form #### G.L. Berg Entertainment, cruise guest headliners Representation for guest headliners, comedians among them: a full-length, stage-ready show with a record of playing captive audiences, a valid passport, a high-quality promo reel, and full-show footage if you have it (raw footage accepted). Engagements are fly-on, fly-off, generally 2–6 days. **Worth knowing.** It says it may not answer quickly, and gets in touch when it sees an opportunity. Representation isn’t a booking. [Its page ↗](https://www.glberg.com/cruise-headliner) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Nationwide · College market · Email #### KP Comedy, representation inquiries A college comedy agency’s representation inquiry: a bio, a headshot, your experience in the college market, your credits, your website and social links, and a video demo of 4–8 minutes, sent to the address on its page. **Worth knowing.** It asks for a college-appropriate video, not a club set with a note that you can be clean, and does most of its reviewing in May and November. [Its page ↗](https://www.kpcomedy.com/about.html) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Nationwide · College market · Form #### Neon Entertainment, artists seeking representation A form for entertainers looking for a college agent: the type of act, a bio, a headshot and a link to a quality video of a live performance, with clear picture and sound. **Worth knowing.** It reaches out only if it’s interested. A submission to an agency isn’t a booking or a promise of representation. [Its page ↗](https://www.neon-entertainment.com/artists-seeking-representation/) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Astoria, NY · Produce a show · Form #### Q.E.D. Astoria, producing a show Tell it about your show or event through the form on its page. Its baseline for new shows and producers: a ticket split with no rental or up-front costs, up to 50 tickets, generally, at a price you set; the first $50 to $125 in sales, by night, goes to Q.E.D., producers guarantee that amount, and the rest is split 50/50. **Worth knowing.** It asks its producers not to produce or regularly host other shows in Astoria within two months before or after their Q.E.D. show. [Its page ↗](https://qedastoria.com/pages/producing) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Chicago, IL · Produce a show · Form #### The Lincoln Lodge, show submissions Its show submission form, linked from its own site: what the show is and why it’s unique, a one-off or a regular run, the theater size you want and your availability. Its theaters rent at a flat rate, and you keep the ticket sales after that. **Worth knowing.** Its form says that for now it has room only for monthly regular runs, not weekly or daily shows. [Its page ↗](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd2qX-3_Bt4NDg4WWobqCyAkKx0pFJKpSZrk-L4HLxisxf-WQ/viewform) Checked 10 November 2026 Published route Denver, CO · Independent show · Email #### Rotating Tap Comedy Shows at craft breweries across the Denver metro area, with comics from across the country: email your name, a submission tape and the dates you’re looking to be booked. [Its page ↗](https://www.rotatingtapcomedy.com/) Checked 10 November 2026 Seasonal: check first Durango, CO · Club spots · Form #### Durango Comedy Its 2026 performer form, for openers (5 minutes) to headliners (up to 60) and hosts; national and non-regional headliners are booked by invitation only. **Worth knowing.** A 2026 form: check that it’s still taking names before you send. [Its page ↗](https://form.jotform.com/252975450600052) Checked 10 November 2026 Seasonal: check first St. Paul, MN · College market · Membership #### NACA St. Paul, regional showcase Showcasing at a NACA regional conference takes associate membership first (a regional membership covers one conference a year), then a $180 showcase application, a booth and a full registration. Of the 2026–27 regional conferences, NACA St. Paul (8–10 April 2027) is still taking showcase applications, until 7 January 2027. **Worth knowing.** The costs add up, and delegates are expected to stay in the conference hotel block: price the trip first. An act that has never showcased at NACA, with minimal tech needs, can also apply for its People’s Choice Showcase, for St. Paul by 11 February 2027. [Its page ↗](https://www.naca.org/events/conferences/performing-exhibiting.html) Checked 10 November 2026 Seasonal: check first Hershey, PA · College market · Membership #### APCA National Campus Activities Conference Join APCA first (a self-represented artist membership is $269 a year), then apply to showcase at its national conference, 27 February to 2 March 2027: there’s no application fee, and nothing to pay until a showcase is accepted. A 10-minute non-catered showcase package is $2,399, a booth included. **Worth knowing.** If you’re accepted, you also need a delegate pass ($549 early, by 25 January) and a room in the conference hotel block, and payment is due within 10 days of the showcase notice. [Its page ↗](https://apca.com/event/2026-apca-national-campus-activities-conference-3/) Checked 10 November 2026 Check its own page first Los Angeles, CA · Produce a show · Pitch #### Dynasty Typewriter, show submissions The venue’s own Show Submissions page holds its form for pitching a show; open it to see what the form asks before you pitch. **Worth knowing.** The form is drawn by the page’s script, so what it asks can change without the page saying so: read it the week you pitch. [Its page ↗](https://www.dynastytypewriter.com/submit) Checked 10 November 2026 Check its own page first Tulsa, OK · Club spots · Email #### Tulsa Comedy Club Its FAQ asks comics to email a 5–10 minute clip. **Worth knowing.** The same FAQ still says its kitchen reopens in early fall 2022: check that the club still answers before you count on it. [Its page ↗](https://www.tulsacomedyclub.org/faq) Checked 10 November 2026 Closed Columbus, OH · College market · Membership #### NACA Live, college showcase Showcasing at NACA Live (19–22 February 2027) takes national associate membership, a $195 application fee and showcase fees; the showcase applications closed on 2 November. **Worth knowing.** Closed for 2027: watch for the next cycle. The fees are significant. [Its page ↗](https://www.naca.org/events/naca-live/performing-exhibiting.html) Checked 10 November 2026 Closed Albuquerque, NM · Festival · Form #### Albuquerque Funny Fiesta Its submissions page says, at the top, that submissions are now closed. **Worth knowing.** Closed: watch for its next call. [Its page ↗](https://www.abqfunnyfiesta.com/submissions) Checked 10 November 2026 Closed Providence, RI · Festival · Form #### Lil Rhody Laugh Riot Its submissions page now asks for a password: the last call for comics has ended. **Worth knowing.** Watch for its next call. [Its page ↗](https://www.lilrhodylaughriot.com/submissions) Checked 10 November 2026 Closed Nationwide · Competition · Form #### Don’t Tell Comedy, the competition Entries for its 2026 competition closed on 4 September 2026. **Worth knowing.** Closed: watch for the next year’s call. [Its page ↗](https://www.donttellcomedy.com/competition/) Checked 10 November 2026 Closed Tulsa, OK · Festival · Form #### Blue Whale Comedy Festival Its 2026 call closed on 30 April. Its stand-up slots ran from a 5–7 minute host to a 35–45 minute headliner, from a clip of at least 5–10 minutes before an audience, with a fee to apply ($20 early to $50 late). **Worth knowing.** Closed: watch for its next call. Performers aren’t paid; its page lists bookings on its shows through the year among the perks. [Its page ↗](https://www.bluewhalecomedyfestival.com/comic-submissions) Checked 10 November 2026 Closed Winnipeg, MB, Canada · Festival (TV) · Email #### Winnipeg Comedy Festival, televised shows It casts stand-up sets for five themed TV shows: an 8–10 minute set as an unlisted link, material new to a national audience and unaired on national TV or streaming, and a bio showing at least five years of stand-up. Its 2027 call closed on 31 October 2026; the festival runs 26 April–2 May 2027. **Worth knowing.** Closed: watch for its next call. It books US and international acts only occasionally, because of Canadian content requirements. [Its page ↗](https://www.winnipegcomedyfestival.com/about-us/submissions) Checked 10 November 2026 Your passport ## Your stops, kept on this device Mark a stop Working on it or Done, tick its moves, and keep a link and a note: each change is dated, and the dates make your career's timeline. It stays in this browser on this device unless you save it to the cloud below, scrambled with your own key. Download a copy now and then too, and load it on a new phone or computer. By lane ### Where you've been Your stops ### Working on it, and done Nothing marked yet. Open a stop on the map and choose Working on it or Done. Load a passport Saved in this browser Your timeline ### Your career, by the day Nothing yet. Each status you set, and each step and piece of proof you tick on a stop's roadmap, goes here with its day. Once a year ### Your yearly review No review yet. Your booking desk ### The places you're pitching Save a place from Where to send it and keep its status, your follow-up date and a note. A follow-up date that has come round is marked here. Nothing saved yet. Open Where to send it and choose “Save to my booking desk” on a place you'll pitch. The next ninety days ### Your 90-day plan One goal and up to twelve steps, starred on a stop's roadmap. Choose fewer than you think. Your goal for these ninety days The day it starts On every device ### Your passport in the cloud A free, private copy that opens on a new phone or computer with your passport key: no account, no email, no password. It is scrambled in this browser before it leaves, and only your key opens it, so keep the key safe. It holds everything here, your booking desk, and Stage Time's joke notebook and set log. [How it's kept](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/privacy.html#passport) **Your passport key** Keep my key on this device, so changes save on their own ## Sources The buyers' requirements are quoted from each buyer's own page, checked on 10 November 2026. A buyer can change its rules at any time, so read its page before you send anything. - [Gotham Comedy Club, New Talent ↗](https://gothamcomedyclub.com/New-Talent/) A club’s published submission rules. A 2–5 minute tape, with clean audio and a clear view of you on stage, for its New Talent Showcase. - [Bushwick Comedy, out-of-town submissions ↗](https://www.bushwickcomedy.com/contact/out-of-town-submission) A club’s published submission rules. Your best five minutes as a YouTube link, a definite window of dates, and the tape in at least two months before them. - [Lafayette Comedy, comedian submissions ↗](https://www.lafayettecomedy.com/submissions/comediansubmission) A club’s published submission rules. A 5–10 minute stand-up video, not set to private, the role you want, a headshot and references who can vouch for you. - [Funny Girl Events, submissions ↗](https://www.funnygirlevents.com/submission.html) A producer’s published submission rules. One continuous, uncut video of a full set at the slot’s length, clear sound and light, and no explicit language; for comics who already feature or headline at clubs. - [The Loony Bin, Tulsa: comedian booking information ↗](https://tulsa.loonybincomedy.com/FreeForm/93aaa712-52ff-47a3-9da5-36acbe85def2/bca30415-8e4e-4ec5-817d-52222ac57427/Comedian_Booking_Info) A club’s published booking rules. Full-length, unedited set video: 15 minutes for MC, 30 for feature, 45 for headliner. - [GP College Entertainment, prospective artists ↗](https://www.gpentertainment.com/prospective-artists.php) A college agency’s published criteria. At least 5–8 minutes of clean, college-appropriate material on video, a bio of 200 words at most, two high-resolution photos and your college dates. - [NACA Live, performing and exhibiting ↗](https://www.naca.org/events/naca-live/performing-exhibiting.html) The campus buyers’ association. Showcasing takes national associate membership; each act needs a bio, photo and pricing, with an application fee and showcase fees on top. - [Warshaw Entertainment, comedian criteria ↗](https://warshawentertainment.squarespace.com/soloists) A cruise agency’s published criteria. An original family-friendly show and an adult (18+) show, each 30–55 minutes long. - [Lime Entertainment, comedians ↗](https://lime.inc/performers/dj-techs-hosts/) A cruise agency’s published criteria. Comics with 90+ minutes of clean material. - [Princess Cruises Entertainment, life onboard ↗](https://www.princesscruisesentertainment.com/life-onboard) A cruise line’s own page. How the line hires guest entertainers, directly and through its official talent partners, and the employment agreements and cabins that come with the job. - [IRS, Manage taxes for your gig work ↗](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/manage-taxes-for-your-gig-work) Government guidance. Keep records and receipts through the year, report all your income, and pay estimated tax on time. - [Raleigh Comedy Festival, comic submissions ↗](https://raleighcomedyfestival.com/submissions) A festival’s published submission rules. Your best unedited 5-minute tape in front of a live audience, on a link that stays active through February 2027; its judges watch five minutes. - [Windy City Comedy Festival, 2027 submissions ↗](https://www.windycitycomedyfest.com/submissions2027) A festival’s published submission rules. A continuous 5–7 minute set of original material, no highlight reels, unlisted but not private. - [FunnyFest Calgary, the comedy competition ↗](https://funnyfest.com/comedy-competition/) A competition’s published rules. A link to an unedited five-minute performance of original material, with no fee to apply; its final might be recorded for broadcast. - [Winnipeg Comedy Festival, submissions ↗](https://www.winnipegcomedyfestival.com/about-us/submissions) A televised festival’s published rules. Sets of 8–10 minutes, kept TV clean, with material new to a national audience, cast for five themed TV shows. - [NextUp Comedy, be on NextUp ↗](https://nextupcomedy.com/pages/be-on-nextup) A distributor’s published submission rules. Existing recordings, from a 10-minute set to a full special, filmed on at least two HD cameras with clean sound and an audible audience. - [Stand Up! Records, contact ↗](https://standuprecords.com/pages/contact) A comedy label’s own page. Its contact form goes to press, mail order or distribution, and it doesn’t accept demos. - [Lexy’s Comedy Club, booking and opportunities ↗](https://www.lexyscomedyclub.com/booking) A club’s published booking rules. A producer bringing a show sends attendance and ticket sales averages or reports; a headliner sends a 45–60 minute clip. - [Flappers Comedy Club, independent producer submission form ↗](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc6uMEmqhr-Y5PNwJzGKC_bn8dutqbIBNCumMhGlJFBgTT7Ig/viewform) A club’s producer form. It asks a producer’s following, email list and marketing plan, and whether they can bring at least 30 people without relying on the lineup. - [Lafayette Comedy, open-mic tips ↗](https://www.lafayettecomedy.com/pages/open-mic-comedy) A club’s published advice to open-mic comics. Four to five minutes as a rule, a light with one minute left, your material known and practiced before you go up, and your set recorded on your phone to listen back. - [BARK Entertainment, your first open mic ↗](https://www.barkentertainment.com/first-open-mic) A club company’s advice to new comics. Check in with the host, have your material written and planned, move the mic stand, record your set to listen back, and be polite to the staff. - [BARK Entertainment, open mic rules ↗](https://www.barkentertainment.com/open-mic-rules) A club company’s published open-mic rules. A light with one minute left and another at your time, and 24 hours’ notice if you can’t make your night. - [Laugh Factory Hollywood, FAQs ↗](https://www.laughfactory.com/clubs/hollywood/faqs) A club’s published open-mic rules. A Tuesday open mic with sign-up in person and a random lottery, 2 minutes each, to be treated as an audition; it says neither the mic nor its video form guarantees a booking. - [EastVille Comedy Club, open mics ↗](https://www.eastvillecomedy.com/open-mic) A club’s published open-mic rules. Comics sign up in person, 30 minutes early, first come; five minutes each, varying with the lineup’s size; and a one-drink minimum for comics. - [BABS Comedy Club, comedian submissions ↗](https://www.babscomedyclub.com/Comedian-Bookings-Submissions) A club’s published submission rules. Its Friday Local Laughs Showcase books through its form only, a new clip is welcome with new material, and its weekly open mic is named as the best way to be considered. - [Henceforth Comedy, booking questions ↗](https://henceforthcomedy.com/) A producer’s published submission rules. A high-quality video of a recent five-minute set, credits beyond open mics and contests, a short bio and your Cleveland dates; a new video is welcome after 90 days. - [BARK Entertainment, paid MC ↗](https://www.barkentertainment.com/paid-mc) A club company’s published MC requirements. A clean 10–15 minute set, no worse than PG-13, from comics who are easy to work with, polite to staff, sober on stage and eager to learn the MC announcements. - [Durango Comedy, 2026 performer form ↗](https://form.jotform.com/252975450600052) A producer’s published performer form. Its criteria for performers, hosting among them: crowd engagement, pacing and setting the tone for the night. Slots run from a 5-minute opener to a headliner of up to 60, with hosts. - [Comedy Works, New Talent Night rules ↗](https://nts.comedyworks.com/rules) A club’s published new-talent rules. Each comic starts with a two-minute set, and the coordinators move comics up on what they see: presence, connection with the audience, laughs per minute and how soon the first laugh comes. - [Lexy’s Comedy Club, booking and opportunities ↗](https://www.lexyscomedyclub.com/booking) A club’s published booking rules. Headlining is for comics with an established body of work and a 45–60 minute set, shown in a clip of that length; producers bringing a show send attendance and ticket sales. - [BARK Entertainment, comic submission form ↗](https://barkentertainment.wufoo.com/forms/qlehqqh0c279y1/) A club company’s published submission form. One form for the clubs it books. Comics it passes go on an avails email, sent at least once a quarter, the only way to submit for its dates; new video is welcome every six months. - [The Ivy League of Comedy, for comics seeking spots ↗](https://www.ivystandup.com/spots) A clean-comedy producer’s published rules for comics. Clean sets, cleaner or less so by venue, for paid spots at venues public and private: at least ten minutes of unedited video, a bio or credits, a professional headshot, and comics who arrive on time and are nice to clients. - [The Ivy League of Comedy, FAQ for event planners ↗](https://www.ivystandup.com/corporate-comedy-faq-for-event-planners) A clean-comedy producer’s terms for event clients. For a corporate show, usually one comic for 20–30 minutes, after dinner; half on booking and the balance at the event; a contract out within a day and a two-part tech rider. - [Wild Hair Entertainment, comedian guidelines ↗](https://wildhairentertainment.com/comedian/guidelines.php) An event producer’s published content lanes. Four content lanes, from family-friendly to mature adult, that describe the content, not the comic’s talent; its clean adult lane is PG-13, with minimal profanity. - [Wild Hair Entertainment, comedian submittal ↗](https://wildhairentertainment.com/comedian/application.php) An event producer’s published route for comics. A form to join its availability list: your experience, a link to a 5–10 minute performance clip, a bio and the introduction a host reads; once on it, you get its requests for avails and keep your details current on a dashboard. - [Wild Hair Entertainment, fundraiser comedy shows ↗](https://wildhairentertainment.com/fundraisers.php) An event producer’s page for fundraiser clients. Comedy shows for fundraisers, with performers chosen to suit the audience, for nonprofits, professional associations, schools and booster groups, civic groups, fire halls and rescue squads. - [Metropolis Management, comedy ↗](https://www.metropolismanagement.com/act-type-pages/comedy) An event agency’s comedy page. Comedy for corporate events, colleges, fundraisers, conferences and private events; many of its clients ask for clean material, and the comedy is adjusted to the audience and the event. - [Clean Comedy Collective, applications ↗](https://cleancomedycollective.com/applications/) A clean-comedy network’s published criteria. A headshot, a website or EPK that isn’t social media, and a video link to your stand-up, 4–5 minutes suggested; accepted comics go on the list its producers book from. - [Carnival Entertainment, comedy and variety openings ↗](https://www.carnivalentertainment.com/opportunities/comedy-variety) A cruise line’s own page. Guest entertainers through an agent; for comics, 90 minutes of different material (a 30-minute family-friendly show and two 30-minute adult shows), credits and bio in PDF, a headshot and two videos, one PG and one adult. - [G.L. Berg Entertainment, cruise guest headliners ↗](https://www.glberg.com/cruise-headliner) A cruise agency’s published criteria. Representation for acts with a full-length, stage-ready show and a record of playing captive audiences; fly-on, fly-off engagements of generally 2–6 days; a valid passport for each person in the show. - [Lime Entertainment, performer FAQs ↗](https://lime.inc/performers/faq/) A cruise agency’s published terms. The documents it says cruise lines ask for, and how it charges: where it does, a commission from the salary on board, after the audition, the contract and the paperwork. - [KP Comedy, artist representation inquiries ↗](https://www.kpcomedy.com/about.html) A college agency’s published criteria. A bio, a headshot, your college-market experience, your credits, your links and a 4–8 minute video demo; a college-appropriate video, not a club set with a note that you can be clean. - [NACA Conferences, performing and exhibiting ↗](https://www.naca.org/events/conferences/performing-exhibiting.html) The campus buyers’ association. For NACA’s regional conferences: associate membership first, then the showcase application and its deadline, a booth, a full registration and the conference hotel block. - [NACA associate membership ↗](https://www.naca.org/join/associate-membership.html) The campus buyers’ association. Who may join and showcase, how showcase acts are chosen, the ten-minute showcase and its rule on travel in block prices. - [APCA associate membership, for artists and agents ↗](https://apca.com/artists-agents-membership/) The campus buyers’ association. Self-represented artists and agencies join before they apply to a conference; no showcase submission fees; artist profiles that schools can send an interest form from through the year. - [APCA conferences, for artists and agents ↗](https://apca.com/artists-agents-conferences/) The campus buyers’ association. Showcases, exhibit halls and Cooperative Buying, where schools offer an act a block of dates for a lower price and shared travel. - [Q.E.D. Astoria, producing a show ↗](https://qedastoria.com/pages/producing) A venue’s published producer terms. A ticket split with no rental or up-front costs: up to 50 tickets, generally, at the producer’s price; the first $50 to $125 in sales, by night, goes to the venue and is the producer’s guarantee, and the rest is split 50/50. - [The Lincoln Lodge, show submission form ↗](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd2qX-3_Bt4NDg4WWobqCyAkKx0pFJKpSZrk-L4HLxisxf-WQ/viewform) A venue’s published producer terms. Its theaters rent at a flat rate, and the producer keeps the ticket sales after that; for now it books monthly regular runs. - [Comic Cure, comic signup ↗](https://comiccure.com/comic-signup) A producer’s published submission rules. An online form for its shows in several regions; its FAQ says travel, lodging and food are the performer’s own responsibility. ## About the atlas **By D.O.C. Editorial.** The Stand-Up Career Atlas lays out the work of a stand-up career as a common start, five paid routes and a discovery lane. It is a way to plan, not a survey, a ranking or a salary table: it gives no pay figures, no expected years and no odds, and no stop promises a booking. Each stop links to the D.O.C. pages that go deeper, most of them drawn from D.O.C.'s companion book, [*Stand-Up Comedy: From Writing to Touring*](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/stand-up-comedy-book.html). ### More for working comics - [Road Maps](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-road-maps.html) where you are, your next ninety days, what a gig leaves you - [The Stand-Up Starter Course](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/how-to-start-stand-up-comedy.html) from a blank page to your first open mic - [Stage Time](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/stage-time.html) open mics near you, your log and the club ladder - [Club Directory](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-clubs.html) how each room books comics - [Your Team](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/comedy-agents.html) agents, managers and bookers, and a directory - [The Working Comic](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/working-comic.html) taxes, corporate and college dates, the life around the set Updated 10 November 2026 · [Comic's Corner](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/tools-for-comedians.html) · [Privacy](https://disciplesofcomedy.com/privacy.html)