JUNE 5 8pm PRIMETIME Improv and Sketch Playground at the Broadway Comedy Club NYC

FRIDAY JUNE 5, 2015

8pm SHOW
$10 Cover includes 1st round from the bar
(Beer, Wine, or Soft Drinks)
NO ADDITIONAL PURCHASE REQUIRED
1/2 Price Specials on full drink menu

nyitplayground

8pm-9:30
Mom, Legend of Bagger Vance, Albatross, Loyalty Program

HOSTED BY Walt Frasier & Meg Reilly from LMAO

Displaying The Legend of Bagger Vance Logo.jpg

The Legend of Bagger Vance is Ian Herrin, Nick Pearl, Alex Rosenthal, John Shepard, Alex Spieth, Joe Taylor http://thelegendofbaggervance.improvteams.com/

Displaying Mom Logo.jpg

Mom is Jack Frederick, Stefan Hartmann, Ian Herrin, Bryan Packman, Pierre Reboul http://mom.improvteams.com/

Displaying Albatross Logo.jpg

Albatross is Ian Herrin, John King, Ben Ruffman-Cohen, John Shepard, Alice Snedden http://newyork.improvteams.com/teams/RkGm/wastoid

Loyalty Program is Bryan Packman, Aaron Luryi, Brooke Tibbs, Joseph Russell, Jon Blue http://loyaltyprogram.improvteams.com/

nyitevents

IMPROV at the BROADWAY COMEDY CLUB8imptshirt1

Saturdays 3 & 8 LMAO OFF BROADWAY
The cast of EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH delivers hilarious musical comedy based on audience suggestions and participation. WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY meets Off Broadway Review. The all professional cast includes talent from TV, FILM and even Broadway. Since 2002 EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH has presented 5000+ show in Times Square and touring nationwide – clubs, theaters, colleges, corporate/private events and even K-12 outreach.

3pm SHOW great for the whole family (AKA Improv 4 Kids / Improv 4 Teens). Great destination for families, camps, scouts and birthday parties.

8pm SHOW 18+ Although some older families (teens & up) will find the show acceptable, but the core audience is college and older.

Shows added often for group needs, holidays and vacation times.
CLICK HERE for full calendar and discount tickets via THEATERMANIA

#LMAONYC COMEDY VIDEOS

 Artistic Director, PATRICK REIDY is an actor, comedian, musician, and improviser in NYC.  He can currently be seen as a host and improv comedian at the Broadway Comedy Club for the Eight Is Never Enough and LMAO-NYC Interactive Comedy Shows as well as touring with their family friendly cousin, Improv 4 Kids.  He is also an established improv teacher, having taught for the Comedy Hall Of Fame and independent residences throughout the five boroughs.  As a sketch writer and performer his work has been featured on Funny Or Die, College Humor, and the Absent Minded Comedy Show.  He is a graduate of Salem State University and has studied improv, sketch-writing, stand-up, and screenwriting at the Upright Citizens Brigade, The Peoples Improv Theatre, and The Annoyance Theater.  Yes, and he would love to help you with your next artistic project!

waltfrasierbizcard

Catch Walt Frasier this Spring on TruTV’s “Friends Of The People” now in their 2nd season. Go to Netflix – RIGHT NOW!!! – to see Walter in Lilyhammer (Season 3, Episode 8) as the American comic performing at Steven Van Zandt’s Norwegian club. Also now on Netflix – Blue Bloods (Season 3, Episode 8) see Walter in spandex body suit in first 5 minutes as Arnie the Homeless Avenger. Royal Pains (Season 6 Episode 3 ALSO NOW ON NETFLIX) as the Choking Victim. Past credits include sketch bits on Letterman (9 episodes), Stakervision (MTV2), Naked Brother’s Band (NICK), Hair Trauma (WE) and numerous commercials including Dr. Oz’s Fat Pants. Theater Credits include Off Broadway, Touring and Regional Theater plus over 4000 professional Improv Comedy Shows with EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH (AKA LMAO Off Broadway. Improv 4 Kids, Improv 4 Teens, Absent Minded Comedy).

PERFORMER BIOS

Megan Reilly – co-MC

Megan Reilly is a sassy, outrageous Jersey girl with a passion for rapping and the moon. She can currently be seen giggling around NYC with her improv troupes LMAO-Off Broadway, Robopop (Hip Hop Improv) and Dancefloor Makeout (Musical Improv). She is also a part of the touring ensemble for the musical improv show Broadway’s Next Hit Musical. She attended The Tisch School of the Arts at NYU and has also studied at The Upright Citizens Brigade, The Second City and The Magnet Theater.

Ian Herrin

Ian (pictured sitting left and for some reason open-legged) is an actor, improviser, and stand-up comedian in New York City with a Masters from NYU in Cinema Studies. Ian has taken classes at Gotham Comedy Club and is also Advanced Study UCB. He has worked with 40+ different UCB coaches.

Contact ianherrin@gmail.com for booking one of his three indie teams, to inquire about his coaching availability, or to just more generally receive a polite reply message from a very nice young man.

John King

John King has studied at UCB since September 2012 and is currently in advanced study. He also has a degree and Performing Arts (Theater), and is currently SAG/AFTRA and trying to fulfill his dream of entertaining people for a living. You can add him on Instagram @Jsmoothnyc and check out his videos on YouTube under Actorjohnking 🙂

John Shepard

John do good stage in New York. John not sure audience laugh at John or with John. John not sure it matters. John here for you when you need John.

Rachel Sweeney

http://www.rachelsweeneyactor.com

Nick Pearl

Nicholas “Nick” Pearl is a writer/performer from NY. He is the founder and creator of TurboSpeak©, an experimental constructed language/energy drink. All inquiries regarding TurboSpeak© should be addressed to Mr. Pearl. In his spare time, Nick enjoys going to Best Buy and reading the descriptions on the back covers of DVDs of movies he will enjoy watching later that night on the Internet.

Alex Rosenthal

Alex is still deciding how we wants to position his online personal brand; he will update this later.

Follow him on Twitter @abrosenthal

Donald Chang

Donald was lost. And then he was found, by Lady Improv. And then life was a hootenanny. Amen.

Jack Frederick

Jack is a writer, actor, and musician living in New York. He has studied improvisation and sketch comedy at the Upright Citizen’s Brigade, Peoples Improv Theater, and Magnet Theater under the likes of: Molly Lloyd, Kate Riley, Gavin Speiller, Nicole Drespel, Brandon Bassham, Rachel Mason, Mike Kelton, Paul Laudiero, Rachel Rosenthal, Pat Shay, Chris Aurilio, Armando Diaz, and Casey Jost.

Sketch Comedy- The Season Two Show
Theater- St. Fortune Collective

For more info, visit my website.

Stefan Hartmann

Stefan is a stupid moron with an ugly face and big butt and my butt smells and I like to kiss my own butt.

Pierre Reboul

Pierre is an improviser, writer, and studmuffin from New York City.

Rich Rosario

Rich is a writer, producer, and performer living in New York. Rich started improvising with Asinine Sketch and Improv Comedy at Boston College back in 2005. He has since studied improvisation at the UCB Theatre and Magnet Theater under some seriously funny people: Rick Andrews, Brandon Gardner, Ryan Karels, Louis Kornfeld, Alex Marino, Doug Moe, Morgan Grace Jarrett, Brandon Scott Jones, Gavin Speiller, Kate Spencer, and Ari Voukydis.

He’s also studied the 4 Track form with Christian Capozzoli, Krompf with Amey Goerlich, and sketch writing with Kerry McGuire, Damian Chadwick, and Geoff Garlock.

Twitter: @theRichet
Funnies: Richet Comedy
Website: HeresRichRosario.com.

Joseph Sudol

Joseph, is a New York based actor of both the stage and screen. Working as a staged improvisor has been the center of his performance passion. Trained at the prestigious, Upright Citizen’s Brigaide theater in NYC, Joseph has had the fortune of being inspired by some of the best and most established professionals in the game. Joseph can be seen regularly at the Queen’s Secret Improv Club (Q.S.I.C.) in Long Island City’s up and coming improv scene. You can catch him perform along side 8 other talented improvisors (who also love their mothers) every Thursday for the weekly “2X4” show on house team MOM.

JUNE 12 HAPPY HOUR IMPROV TEAMS LINE-UP $10 cover includes 1st drink

FRIDAY JUNE 12, 2015

6pm HOUSE OPENS; 6:30 SHOW
$10 Cover includes 1st round from the bar
(Beer, Wine, or Soft Drinks)
NO ADDITIONAL PURCHASE REQUIRED
1/2 Price Specials on full drink menu

nyitplayground

6:30-7:30
Flying V, Last Minute, Wrist, Prizes

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Flying V is an 8-lady-strong New York City-based improv team that has performed in theaters across New York City. With combined training from the Peoples Improv Theater, The Annoyance (NYC), Upright Citizens Brigade, and the Magnet, their style possesses a flavor as unique and diverse as the city itself. This all-lady powerhouse shares more than just a synced menstrual cycle–their long-form improv style is fast -and -furious, with scenes that are often as goofy as they are grounded. The secret to the sauce? They are always having an insane amount of fun. QUACK QUACK QUACK.

FLYING V IMPROV is Megan Baker, Hannah Levinson, Onnesha Roychoudhuri, Sarah Selznick Weissman, Raina Trider Moore, Alyssa Lott, Adrienne LeValley, Ren Peir
https://www.facebook.com/flyingvladies

Displaying Wrist.jpg

Wrist is a New York-based improv team that performs long form. Wrist is also a body part commonly found between your arm and hand. It’s commonly used to help move your hand forward and back. Sometimes, the wrist can be flicked, as popular music has showed us. On other times, the wrist can be snapped. On those occasions, it’s recommended you visit a doctor to correct the displacement.

WRIST is Lee Chin, Grace Leeson, Alice Sneeden, Elaina Wahl, Melissa Kaskel, Tom Capps, Kevin Etherston and Dennis Feitosa

http://wrist.improvteams.com/

image1.PNG

Sometimes Facebook (and Leah Evans) forces friendship upon us. So why the hell not? A revolving date door of mystery teammates.

LAST MINUTE is  Brady Hirschhorn, Mike Robertson, Elke Reid, Joseph Rocha, Bethany Kay, Leah Evans

http://lastminute.improvteams.com/

Prizes Comedy. Because everyone loves prizes! We’re a Jersey City based experimental improv group, performing in New Jersey and New York. Dan Conroy, Bryton McGrath, Jordon Tepper

http://prizes.improvteams.com/

nyitevents

IMPROV at the BROADWAY COMEDY CLUB8imptshirt1

Saturdays 3 & 8 LMAO OFF BROADWAY
The cast of EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH delivers hilarious musical comedy based on audience suggestions and participation. WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY meets Off Broadway Review. The all professional cast includes talent from TV, FILM and even Broadway. Since 2002 EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH has presented 5000+ show in Times Square and touring nationwide – clubs, theaters, colleges, corporate/private events and even K-12 outreach.

3pm SHOW great for the whole family (AKA Improv 4 Kids / Improv 4 Teens). Great destination for families, camps, scouts and birthday parties.

8pm SHOW 18+ Although some older families (teens & up) will find the show acceptable, but the core audience is college and older.

Shows added often for group needs, holidays and vacation times.
CLICK HERE for full calendar and discount tickets via THEATERMANIA

#LMAONYC COMEDY VIDEOS

 Artistic Director, PATRICK REIDY is an actor, comedian, musician, and improviser in NYC.  He can currently be seen as a host and improv comedian at the Broadway Comedy Club for the Eight Is Never Enough and LMAO-NYC Interactive Comedy Shows as well as touring with their family friendly cousin, Improv 4 Kids.  He is also an established improv teacher, having taught for the Comedy Hall Of Fame and independent residences throughout the five boroughs.  As a sketch writer and performer his work has been featured on Funny Or Die, College Humor, and the Absent Minded Comedy Show.  He is a graduate of Salem State University and has studied improv, sketch-writing, stand-up, and screenwriting at the Upright Citizens Brigade, The Peoples Improv Theatre, and The Annoyance Theater.  Yes, and he would love to help you with your next artistic project!

waltfrasierbizcard

Catch Walt Frasier this Spring on TruTV’s “Friends Of The People” now in their 2nd season. Go to Netflix – RIGHT NOW!!! – to see Walter in Lilyhammer (Season 3, Episode 8) as the American comic performing at Steven Van Zandt’s Norwegian club. Also now on Netflix – Blue Bloods (Season 3, Episode 8) see Walter in spandex body suit in first 5 minutes as Arnie the Homeless Avenger. Royal Pains (Season 6 Episode 3 ALSO NOW ON NETFLIX) as the Choking Victim. Past credits include sketch bits on Letterman (9 episodes), Stakervision (MTV2), Naked Brother’s Band (NICK), Hair Trauma (WE) and numerous commercials including Dr. Oz’s Fat Pants. Theater Credits include Off Broadway, Touring and Regional Theater plus over 4000 professional Improv Comedy Shows with EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH (AKA LMAO Off Broadway. Improv 4 Kids, Improv 4 Teens, Absent Minded Comedy).

PERFORMER BIOS…

Megan Baker

Writer, improviser, Midwestern transplant, general young person. Peoples Improv Theater-trained. Currently performing with PIT house team OK President, all-lady indie improv team Flying V, and all-human indie improv team You’re Not My Dad. @mruthbaker. Let’s talk about cheese.

Adrienne LaValley

Actress, improver and voice over lady. Can be seen and heard all over the TV and inter webs, most recently as your friendly Raymour and Flanigan lady. Studied at The Pit and is part of the badass-all-ladies improv group ‘Flying V’, as well as the co-host of the monthly live show ‘The Sports Show’. She is also a member of the ReGroup Theatre Company.

Has declared herself the Kings County snowshoeing queen and knows the doggie Heimlich Maneuver; wheelbarrow position, followed by mouth sweep and abdominal thrusts. You’ll thank her later.

http://www.adriennelavalley.com

Hannah Levinson

Brooklyn based improviser. Performs on the all ladies indie team Flying V. Studied at the People’s Improv Theater and The Annoyance Theater. Loves football and hummus.

Alyssa Lott

Actress, improviser and sketch comedian. Lover of donuts, yoga and puns. Alyssa is a performer with PIT house team The Duke, the improv team Flying V and with the sketch team Nerds on Fire.

For more information visit:
http://www.alyssalott.com
–or–
@alyssalottbot on twitter & instagram

Ren Peir

Ren likes dogs more than cats. She likes poops more than pees. She likes puns more than buns.

Ren was formally trained at the Peoples Improv Theater and at the Magnet Theater for musical improv. She currently performs on house team OK President at the PIT and Pyros at the Magnet. She also loves syncing up with her ladies on Flying V to perform all over New York.

Jason DeWall

Jason is from the great state of Minnesota. Improv Magazine ranked him the 10th best performer in the 8 person group Salamander Jesus.

Jason also has an uncanny amount on 1980’s wrestling knowledge. This is something He’s not particularly proud of.

Bethany Kay

Bethany Kay is an opera-singing Jersey girl with far too much sass and a Masters degree in Acting. Whatever that does.

http://www.BethanyKayActor.com

Tim Tagtmeyer

former member of Bully Mammoth

Lee Chin

Lee Chin is an Improviser born and raised in New York City. If you don’t catch him on stage with his Indie team “WRIST” you can find him on the UCB Comedy Youtube Channel creating content with the team “POCKETWATCH”. Lee has studied under great teachers such as Chelsea Clarke, Brandon Gardner, Corey Brown, Nicole Drespel and Sebastian Conelli. Lee is still figuring out how to thank Christian Capozolli for inspiring him and driving him to become the performer he is today.

Julian Williams

I thought my cat was dead, but really he had just given up. You a punk ass cat, Coco.

SOUND EFFECTS IMPROV at BOWDOIN COLLEGE November 2014

8sidebarSo busy this year we are finally getting some new LIVE show videos up… Andrew Del Vecchio and Brian Simmons perform.

#LMAONYC Videos on YOUTUBE

SEE LMAO Saturdays 8pm in Times Square

CLICK HERE for full schedule and discount tickets of Improv at the Broadway Comedy Club, NYC
Mondays 8pm ON THE SPOT
SATURDAYS 3pm Family-Friendly Improv
HAPPY HOUR – Cover includes drink, numerous NYC teams throwing down

ON TOUR

Bring great interactive entertainment to your next event. LMAO by EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH tours nationwide to clubs, theaters, colleges, private/corporate events and K-12 Outreach (THE ORIGINAL Improv 4 Kids / Improv 4 Teens)

EMAIL NOW FOR QUOTE:
eightimprov@gmail.com
OR CALL
212-568-6560

COLLEGE / UNIVERSITY TOUR

From BOWDOIN (ME) to HIGH POINT (NC) to HASTINGS (NE) and dozens of schools in between (Princeton – NJ, Roger Williams – RI, Williams – MA etc), LMAO delivers hilarious Improv Comedy based on audience suggestions and participation. The show alternates interactive games with audience volunteers, original songs and sketches all created on spot. Every show is topical and personalized as you – the audience – direct the show’s subject matter.

College groups traveling to NYC often enjoy our public shows as well. Email us for some discount group rates.

CORPORATE EVENTS in TIMES SQUARE

Improv provides amazing team building and office entertainment. Great lunch, show & workshop packages, after work happy hour events, and even fancier holiday parties.

happyhourfridays

K-12 OUTREACH

Improv 4 Kids and Improv 4 Teens host field trips and travel to schools, camps, libraries, and non-profits. Amazing entertainment and invaluable education.

f0956-clc

Poly Post: Improv teaches life lessons – great article

Tina Fey, Steve Carell, Amy Poehler, Will Ferrell and Bill Murray all have something in common — and it’s not just good looks.

They all come from improv backgrounds.

In fact, many actors train in improv, a theater technique that is commonly used in TV and film. Improv has many benefits for both the dramatic actor and the everyday person.

Improv allows comedians to exercise the ability to think quickly on their feet. This technique is used a lot in comedy, since making something funny out of the unexpected is part of the genre. Good comedic timing is a strategy all successful comedians must master, and is one that also works well in everyday life.

The skills people exercise in improv are not just skills used in comedy; many can be applied to everyday situations.

learntoimprovise

One of the few things comedians like to exercise in improv is to always say the first thing that comes to their mind. The more time you have to think about what you want to say, the quicker the moment passes and the opportunity to “heighten the scene” is gone.

There are times when we hold back a thought, idea or an opinion, but in comedy this is never a good idea.  We don’t always realize how valuable and important what we have to say is.

Another skill improv participants focus on is looking out for one another. In an improv show, you are performing with three or four other people. Improv teaches performers that you are part of a team collectively trying to reach the same goal: making the audience laugh.

The most important rule in improv is that you can’t say no. In life, things get thrown at you left and right, and your ability to say “yes” and adapt will determine how you progress.

Not only should comedians refrain from saying no, but they should be prepared to elaborate on all of their responses. The more you add to a scene, the faster you will be able to move forward. A simple “no” will get you stuck — just like it would in reality.

Improv comes with a lot of skillsets, but it’s also a great way to boost overall confidence.

Amy Poehler once said there is power to looking silly and not caring that you do.

Looking “silly” is something a lot of people fear. However, improv encourages silliness. The sillier you are, the more entertaining and enjoyable things will turn out.

As a college student, I struggle with not thinking I’m smart enough, talented enough or experienced enough. But improv helped me realize that what I have to offer is more than enough.

There is a lot of success to be had in improv, and the big names in comedy are living proof of that. Improv is definitely an exciting experience, and helps anyone gets out of a comfort zone.

FRIDAY JUNE 5 6-8pm Line-Up Happy Hour #Improv at #Broadway #Comedy #Club #NYC

FRIDAY JUNE 5, 2015

SPECIAL EARLY SHOW STARTS AT 6pm
$10 Cover includes 1st round from the bar
(Beer, Wine, or Soft Drinks)
NO ADDITIONAL PURCHASE REQUIRED
1/2 Price on full drink menu

happyhourfridays

HOSTED BY WALT FRASIER

6-6:30pm LMAO New Class

6:30-7:45
Uncle Taft, Quote Unquote, Tush, Pancake Aces

Uncle Taft Logo 1

UNCLE TAFT is Jeremy Plyburn, Eric Dittelman, Peter Cunis, Carolyn Egan, Marcus Terry, Michael De Souza

Uncle Taft will probably give you a check on your birthday, but you’ll have to call to thank him. http://uncletaft.improvteams.com/

QUOTE UNQUOTE is Leigh Ellen Caudill, Melina Chadbourne, Chris Chianesi, Jonterri Gadson, Andrew Nordin, Jeremy Senie, Jeff Wucher, and Aileen Zoccola

CAST coached by Carrie McCrossen

https://www.facebook.com/quoteunquoteimprov

tush

TUSH is  Sanjay Bhakser, Hank Browning, Jesse Douglas, Brian Gurien, Greg Lotsvin, Jordan Randolph, Jonathan Ross, Danielle Von Lehman

Made up of eight UCB and Magnet kids, Tush was formed in August 2014, only to become a comedy force majeure in various bar basements and comedy theater stages.  Using long-form improv, Tush will transport the audience to a time in the future, not so long ago.  When not performing improv, the Tush kids can be found playing “Bad Rap” up and down the A train, much to the delight of commuters.

https://www.facebook.com/tushimprov

PANCAKE ACES

Archaeological evidence suggests that Pancake Aces are probably the earliest and most widespread improv team in prehistoric societies. Known as Crêpe Aces in Europe, the group’s performances are filled with jam, cheese cream and many other fillings, both sweet or savory. The Ace embellishment started when King James VI of Scotland and England required an insignia of the group to be used in conjunction with Pancakes. This insignia was necessary for identifying the group among the many other performance units originating around that time. Most members survive today having taken up residence in America, performing mainly at indie venues on the east coast.

PANCAKE CASES is

lmaonewclass

LMAO NEW CLASS is Kelsey Coughlin, Peter Hargarten, Christina Marano, Jay Moonsammy, Brette Morningstar, and special guests from LMAO

https://newyorkimprovtheater.com/comedy-school/nyc-comedy-classes/

nyitevents

IMPROV at the BROADWAY COMEDY CLUB8imptshirt1

Saturdays 3 & 8 LMAO OFF BROADWAY
The cast of EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH delivers hilarious musical comedy based on audience suggestions and participation. WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY meets Off Broadway Review. The all professional cast includes talent from TV, FILM and even Broadway. Since 2002 EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH has presented 5000+ show in Times Square and touring nationwide.

3pm SHOW great for the whole family (AKA Improv 4 Kids / Improv 4 Teens). Great destination for families, camps, scouts and birthday parties.

8pm SHOW 18+ Although some older families (teens & up) will find the show acceptable, but the core audience is college and older.

Shows added often for group needs, holidays and vacation times.
CLICK HERE for full calendar and discount tickets via THEATERMANIA

MONDAYS 8pm ON THE SPOT
G
reat singers present the best of NYC Cabaret. Players from LMAO spin into scenes inspired by the titles, lyrics and themes of the songs. The result is an original musical comedy every night stringing 8-10 random songs together by the spontaneously created book.

#LMAONYC COMEDY VIDEOS

Meet Vivian – our newest LMAONYC video partner!!!
FOLLOW VIVIAN ON TWITTER

 Artistic Director, PATRICK REIDY is an actor, comedian, musician, and improviser in NYC.  He can currently be seen as a host and improv comedian at the Broadway Comedy Club for the Eight Is Never Enough and LMAO-NYC Interactive Comedy Shows as well as touring with their family friendly cousin, Improv 4 Kids.  He is also an established improv teacher, having taught for the Comedy Hall Of Fame and independent residences throughout the five boroughs.  As a sketch writer and performer his work has been featured on Funny Or Die, College Humor, and the Absent Minded Comedy Show.  He is a graduate of Salem State University and has studied improv, sketch-writing, stand-up, and screenwriting at the Upright Citizens Brigade, The Peoples Improv Theatre, and The Annoyance Theater.  Yes, and he would love to help you with your next artistic project!

waltfrasierbizcard

Catch Walt Frasier this Spring on TruTV’s “Friends Of The People” now in their 2nd season. Go to Netflix – RIGHT NOW!!! – to see Walter in Lilyhammer (Season 3, Episode 8) as the American comic performing at Steven Van Zandt’s Norwegian club. Also now on Netflix – Blue Bloods (Season 3, Episode 8) see Walter in spandex body suit in first 5 minutes as Arnie the Homeless Avenger. Royal Pains (Season 6 Episode 3 ALSO NOW ON NETFLIX) as the Choking Victim. Past credits include sketch bits on Letterman (9 episodes), Stakervision (MTV2), Naked Brother’s Band (NICK), Hair Trauma (WE) and numerous commercials including Dr. Oz’s Fat Pants. Theater Credits include Off Broadway, Touring and Regional Theater plus over 4000 professional Improv Comedy Shows with EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH (AKA LMAO Off Broadway. Improv 4 Kids, Improv 4 Teens, Absent Minded Comedy).

PERFORMER BIOS…

Maha Al-Emam

laughter is my modus vivendi. Complication, a dirty word.

Studied with Anthony Atamanuik, Shaun Diston, Erik Tanouye, Laura Gray & Christian Capozzoli.

Nick Alexander

Love Performing. So Happy to do Comedy for a living. I felt underappreciated when I was a Stripper. Entertainer Forever!!

CJ DiCenzo

enjoys sitting at the dinner table and other stuff involving dinner tables.

Phil Jamesson

Phil posts his jokes either on his Twitter or his YouTube.

Sean Perham

I am trying to make people laugh as often as possible. I hope I can do that. I also play/teach music for my job right now. It’s hard to complain.

Veronica Reyes-How

Actor/Director/Writer in NYC. Important highlights: big laugher, animal lover, pastry eater, up for a good time, loves word games.
if you want to see some credits or things I’ve actually done, then you can go to this page http://www.imveronicareyes.com

Leigh Ellen Caudill

Actress. Singer. Social Dancer.

Melina Chadbourne

Melina is an actor who has dabbled in improv and stand-up since coming to NYC in 2012 after graduating from Emerson College. She is Boston born and bred, but a New Yorker at heart. She has no sidewalk etiquette

Chris Chianesi

Chris is an actor, singer, improviser, and competitive eater. @SeriouslyChris

Jonterri Gadson

Jonterri is a writer and improviser who teaches creative writing. She is a critically acclaimed professional male objectification specialist. She tweets.

Andrew Nordin

Andrew is a writer, improviser and stand-up comedian. He grew up in Richmond, VA and spent the majority of his youth trying not to sweat. http://www.andrewnordin.com

Jeff Wucher

Nice guy, mean lady

Megan Baker

Writer, improviser, Midwestern transplant, general young person. Peoples Improv Theater-trained. Currently performing with PIT house team OK President, all-lady indie improv team Flying V, and all-human indie improv team You’re Not My Dad. @mruthbaker. Let’s talk about cheese.

Adrienne LaValley

Actress, improver and voice over lady. Can be seen and heard all over the TV and inter webs, most recently as your friendly Raymour and Flanigan lady. Studied at The Pit and is part of the badass-all-ladies improv group ‘Flying V’, as well as the co-host of the monthly live show ‘The Sports Show’. She is also a member of the ReGroup Theatre Company.

Has declared herself the Kings County snowshoeing queen and knows the doggie Heimlich Maneuver; wheelbarrow position, followed by mouth sweep and abdominal thrusts. You’ll thank her later.

http://www.adriennelavalley.com

Hannah Levinson

Brooklyn based improviser. Performs on the all ladies indie team Flying V. Studied at the People’s Improv Theater and The Annoyance Theater. Loves football and hummus.

Ren Peir

Ren likes dogs more than cats. She likes poops more than pees. She likes puns more than buns.

Ren was formally trained at the Peoples Improv Theater and at the Magnet Theater for musical improv. She currently performs on house team OK President at the PIT and Pyros at the Magnet. She also loves syncing up with her ladies on Flying V to perform all over New York.

Jordan Randolph

I take classes at Magnet and UCB for improv and sketch. I perform with Tush!

Gregory Lotsvin

Greg began writing about himself in third person when he had to write a performer bio. It made him uncomfortable, and he soon stopped.

Peter Cunis

Peter Cunis is a longtime improv performer with experience as a group leader and standup. He presided over the longform troupe Harry Houdini’s Box of Doom for two years at Providence College. He has studied at ImprovBoston in Cambridge, MA and the Magnet Theater in New York, NY. He currently performs with Uncle Taft in New York City.

CREATING CONTENT – ROI “Return On Investment”

Shark Tank’s Kevin Leary AKA “Mr. Wonderful”

If you are Kevin Leary from the Shark Tank, the only Return On Investment is “CASH FLOW”. I talk “ROI” with most artists and they just stare at me. They know LOL, LMAO, ROTFL, but the most important acronym in business is ROI and sorry to remind you, THIS is a business.

However ROI is not just about cash. There are a few things you can invest beside money and there is a lot more benefit than cash.

Are you getting positive ROI?

If you are not getting a financial return can you justify the investment in other means?

What do you do in your life that is a total waste of money and time w/o any return?

INVESTMENT: MONEY

The first most obvious measurable investment is money. It is the one that IRS and investors care most about. How much does it cost to make something happen. Salary (Performers, Designers, Management), Rehearsal / Performance Space, Marketing, Props, Costumes, Sets and office (computers, phones etc) are just some of then numerous costs that arise when producing in the arts. As a theater company we have to watch money in and out very closely. Even as an individual artist, if you want to be commercially successful money in and money out (MIMO) is very important.

INVESTMENT: TIME

Perhaps even more important TIME invested is often taken for granted. You will hear THE SHARKS on ABC’s Shark Tank say to a hopeful entrepreneur, I could write you the check but you need my time that do not have to give. Those looking for an investment are too disorganized or otherwise unprepared. They miss a chance at working with a SHARK and getting their cash because the SHARK does not value the time investment. $50K is pennies to a billionaire, but Mark Cuban only has so many minutes in a day.

In our Improv show SALARY is our biggest expense. With less over head than traditional companies we can invest in great talent as well as charge clients less for the same or better service.

I have a friend that is struggling to find a job. He is taking small low paying work to get by. He and his wife recently moved for her career. All this time they have a house in another state that continues to drain a lot of money every month. By not investing the time to get the house ready for sale, they are losing. Last month he made $900 in odd jobs but still had to pay $1200 to maintain the old house. He finally took a week to back to the old house and get it ready for sale. If they get rid of that $1200/month burden, her job can actually support them. They would actually save money thanks to a time investment. If they do not invest the time now, that old house can become a money pit.

Artists do this all the time. They spend hours making OK money at a bar or restaurant. But then do not have the time or energy to develop their talents. Are you making enough money to justify THAT much time? Remember it is not what you make but what you spend and save. Our parents sacrificed and scraped by in order to provide the great childhood and comforts we are used to. Unless you have parents willing to support you – which sounds great but does nothing for your maturity – you need to take a step back. Save money on THINGS so you can invest TIME on you.

INVESTMENT: RESOURCES

Going back to the TANK, Daymond John often gets great deal – bigger piece of the pie – because he has his own production, marketing and other in house resources. He can take double what you may be offering but he will also take over the job of building the product.

In our theater company, when I bring in new artists to our circle talent is always most important. I need my shows to be great and maintain quality expectations of my regulars – many around for 8-10 years now. But if I have performing talent that can do social media, graphic arts, build props & costumes, stage manage, hang lights, run sound, house manage, etc I can avoid hiring outside talent. I also look for artists that have a car and drive to gigs. I have other artists that have great video cameras that can also edit.

INVESTMENT WASTE

How much time, money and resource do you invest in your career or project. Shortly I am going to talk about the RETURNS / BENEFITS side of ROI. But so many artists waste too much time and money because they think that is how it is done. And there is an entire industry in LA and NYC getting rich off your hopes and dreams. In this day and age spending a fortune on Headshots, Demos, Rehearsal/Theater Space and many teachers are not worth the cost. $1000 headshots are no guarantee of employment. Especially when I know those with $100-200 headshots work ALL the time. For every great private coach there are 10 teachers/coaches charging more that suck. How many of us have WASTED time on horrible unpaid showcases with the hope of getting discovered (“GET SEEN BY INDUSTRY”).

Even if you have money, the key to making money is pretend you have NONE – i know easier for some. WAY too many us waste money. No one loses more playing KEEPING UP WITH THE JONES than wannabe artists.

MAXIMIZING TIME, MONEY & RESOURCES

Take inventory of your time, resources and money. If you have money great. I am assuming as a young artist you don’t. There are so many resources out there that are totally FREE. Internet is an amazing research tool. You can find auditions, host pics and videos, and market yourself via social media ALL FOR FREE.

If you want to be successful make every dollar, minute and resource count. Most of the things you pay someone else to do, you could probably do yourself.

And don’t waste to much time at a day job that sucks away the hours. TIME IS MONEY too!!! You need cash to pay rent, but I bet you could find a cheaper place to live until your real career can afford better. You may need that bartending gig to live in that loft, but you could probably get by renting a room.

FIND A BALANCE

Money is not everything as investment or return. Take inventory of your time, money and resource investments. Track your returns – money and other benefits…

GETTING A RETURN ON YOUR INVESTMENT

So from now on, every time you invest time, money or resource, consider the benefit. Are you getting a return or are you in the RED – financially or otherwise.

MONEYimprove_chart

Again CASH FLOW is the easiest to track. Are you getting your money back? A basic financial investment looks for a return over time. You may not necessarily get money now. In business I am just now getting a financial return on investments I made 5-10 years ago.

I remember the day I wrote a check to take my SAG card. $2000+ was a lot of money at the time. I was getting some audition and even booked a SAG commercial. I had also booked some Letterman Episodes and they had to cut me off because I did not take my card the previous summer. But all that time I was booking non-union commercials and I have a manager that wanted me to stay out of SAG. But even though I was getting jobs and making money, I was also investing a lot of time at non-union auditions. I had to take of work (getting paid to do Improv shows) and non-union producers are notorious for wasting your time. You may show up for a 11am appointment and still be there 3 hours later. THE LAST STRAW I did a commercial for VH1. It actually turned into TWO spots. The shoot lasted 10 hours. The conditions were crap – using shaved Styrofoam for fake snow I was inhaling toxic materials. THEN it took me EIGHT months to get paid $500 (NO BUY OUT). My manager gave me the number at VH1 to track it down (WHAT amd I paying you 15% for?).

Since then I have worked less BUT every audition is quick. If I have a 11am audition, I am usually out by 10:55am. Seriously, no exaggeration. I arrive early – AKA ON TIME in professional world. Most actors are late so I get seen ahead of scheduled time. Less talent is called in for UNION commercials. There is more of a process. So I have also converted more auditions into bookings. In past 3 years I have booked 1 gigs out of 5 auditions. When I go to a union shoot in NYC, I am usually on set for about an hour. They have all the tech worked out before I get there. I show up extra early for the food. But last 3 NYC shoots I was home by lunch time. For two gigs last year I was paid great money to travel or Puerto Rico and Norway for TV shows. Per diems alone matched a usual non-union gig.

ROI for all my non-union work about $5/hour
ROI for all my UNION WORK $100+/hour

AGAIN these are solid numbers. If you take into both the higher pay and time invested. Another secret, I have spent $300 on headshots since 2002. I used to be the guy that carried headshots everywhere. Now when a CD asks for one I am surprised. Most have it online/on file. They film/slate you and know who you are. I also don’t waste time at open calls anymore.

As a young actor you have more time than money.
Invest your time wisely but don’t be cheap!!!

WARNING: Don’t go run out and get your union card based on this info. Because every years 100s do and never work again because they were not ready. I had a resume of NON-UNION Theater and Commercial work. Before taking may card I had been on WE Network as a Reality show life coach, MTV2’s STANKERVISION as a fat guy being chased by cowboys, Letterman 9 times – riding bike across stage as Lance Armstrong, Walking Horse across stage as Jockey, Heckler, FAT GUY trying to cool off at legendary cold Ed Sullivan Theater etc OK 5 times I was paid to be there and bit was cut because of time. Still got my cash and lots of free coffee and cookies. Sometimes I even beat the sound guy to the bananas. But that was experience working with directors in rehearsal and getting to chat with Paul, Biff and the rest of the gang. I had also done some non-union tours and got a few EMC points (Actor’s Equity) doing summer stock at Gateway Playhouse – just enough to get ahead of the line at union auditions.

But before investing your TIME into unpaid activities consider the non-financial benefits…

JOY

We often spend time and money and resources looking for ways to bring ourselves happiness. THE BIG SECRET TO HAPPY LIFE? Find ways to make money from things that bring you joy. If you are having fun, who am I to say stop. Growing up is so overrated.

Doing some showcases are fun. There are some amazing shows. I can honestly say the best work I have done has been in unpaid or stipend projects. And there is nothing more fun than doing Improv Comedy. The fact i pay my bills onstage full time is a blessing I appreciate daily!

EDUCATION

As a young artist you need to learn your craft. You need to take classes. You need to do shows that do not pay. You and/or your parents need to invest in your education.

Beyond college and studio classes, many unpaid gigs on stage and screen are valuable educational experiences. No class truly prepares you for that first time acting for a camera. Nothing develops an artist’s talent better than life experiences on and of stage/set.

EVERY EXPERIENCE is a chance to learn. Don’t waste it. If your so-called failures have educational ROI. Keep a Journal and track what you learn. track the good, bad and ugly.

RESUME

There are many gigs that do not pay but look great on the resume. Especially if your only credits are college, high school and/or community theater. There are great unpaid and low paying stage and screen gigs that one by one replace your other credits. By the time you are 21 no one cares that you did Shakespeare in high school or one a state a talent competition. The second I had Letterman on me resume I started making more as a comic actor. Every new resume item is a step up that ladder.

Every time you work at a recognizable theater in New York, you can remove a non-NYC credit. I knew an amazing young actress that came to NYC with her AEA card. She did professional theater in Chicago. But in NYC very few knew her credits. She had to start from scratch doing showcases and readings. After a few NEW WORKS readings with a particular Casting Director she started to get some work.

I have some random credits in otherwise unknown shows on my resume, BUT they were performed at major Off-Broadway theaters via the NYC Fringe Festival. I also got some great press form one of those. Even though the stipend (“Thank you pay”) did not even cover travel to rehearsal and shows, I can honestly say those resume credits have made me money over time.

Sometimes investing in a class delivers a new teacher for your resume. At some point these items mean little to casting directors but I will admit, in my own casting of projects, those teachers mean more than the resume list of high school and college credits. 

ALSO doing some shows will add to your skills list down below. I am assuming here you all know how to format a great NYC or LA resume. But I learned Tap Dance doing a few shows. Mime, Stage Combat, and More. AT some point I went and took classes to develop those skills farther. But many of my skills come directly from some interesting unpaid projects.

NETWORKING

As much as I have cursed some unpaid showcases over the years, I can honestly say that the worst of them delivered a new friend or industry connection that paid off later.

Think about it. I assume that if you moved to LA or NYC you have talent. So the fact you were a star in High School is meaningless. WE ALL WERE. Or more often, it was not the stars that make it here, because they do not come to NYC feeling entitled. And many of those high school stars are the ones kidding themselves. The things that make you a star in high school often have nothing to do with what Casting Directors are looking for…

So talent is not enough. Training is not enough. This is a business. WHO you know matters. But you did not have to be a producer’s kid to know people. Get out there. Be someone people want to work with and you will make friends on every gig. Be someone directors want to hire and they will. Don’t kiss ass.

REMEMBER – BEING IN THE RIGHT PLACE AT THE RIGHT TIME mean BEING THERE. If you are NEVER there there will NEVER be a right time. If you are ALWAYS there…

My first TV job came because we did Monday Night shows at the NYC Improv. The club manager got a call from MTV. “We need a fat guy with a hairy back at 9am TOMORROW”. Before going to bed I was on phone with costume. I had a great reputation at the club for delivering great shows and filling seats – making the club money. I was at the club when they got the call. The following weekend I was a comic that has appeared on MTV. My second TV Job was Letterman. I was sleeping-in when they called at 11am. “Want to be on Letterman. I need you here in an hour!” I went stinky into a cab got there in 30-minutes. By 4:30 I was walking a horse across stage. 11:30pm that night i was on TV.

This business is painfully slow at first. BUT when things happen they happen fast. Especially in TV. It may take years to sell a project, but when they get the green light the ball starts rolling and picks up momentum quickly.

BEING IN THE RIGHT PLACE AT THE RIGHT TIME means being ready to rock all the time.

EXPOSURE

While everyone in town says “Do my show for free and get INDUSTRY EXPOSURE” most project get ZERO. But we do need to get scene. So many amazing artists suck at auditions. Sadly many bad artists SHINE in audition studios. But there is nothing better than a producer or director or agent seeing you at your best.

These days brand is everything. Every time you perform you potentially are getting new fans.

The only thing I really do that is unpaid these days are Social Media videos (Yourtube, Vine etc). As a comedian it is a way to entertain my fans 24/7.

It takes a lot work to fill an audience for a live performance showcase. Some of the best cabaret in NYC averages 5 guests. Being a little better at marketing my NYC showcases average 20-30. BUT Every time I make a Youtube video, 1000s see my work. I have 1000s of followers on Facebook and Twitter. It took time. But less time than producing a live show.

CYCLE OF EXPOSURE

Everything you do promotes everything else you do.

PUBLIC SHOWS
PRIVATE GIGS
CLASSES
ONLINE VIDEOS
WEBSITES
SOCIAL MEDIA

When we perform we tell folks about our classes and videos. I invite students to watch SHOW and VIDEOS. We ask all to follow us on Twitter where we promote our live shows and videos. It all adds up to creating a brand.

WANT SUCCESS?

Find ways to decrease costs / investment and increase return!!! Take stock in all you do. Eliminate waster. Thank of yourself and/or your projects as a business. Organize your time. Manage your finances. Build your resources.

I tell all my actor friends…

You went to school to be an artist, but you moved to NYC to be an waiter?

Set a goal to QUIT your day job. reduce your expenses. Find ways to make money with your talents or in support of our industry that leads to exposure and networking and educational experiences.

CLINTON THE MUSICAL with LMAO / EIGHT IS NEVER ENOUGH artist Kevin Zak as Kenneth Star

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  • Tony Nominee Kerry Butler is Hillary Clinton
  • Emmy Winner Judy Gold is Linda Tripp
  • RAVE REVIEWS from  NY TIMESEntertainment WeeklyNew York Theatre GuideTheatre Mania
  • Tim Gunn loved it so much–he came for a second time with more friends!
  • Check out Instagram to see hilarious Clinton videos guest starring cast members of Finding Neverland, Aladdin, Mamma Mia, On the Town,and Wicked!
  • Our Original Cast Album is dropping soon–and you’ll definitely want to hear Monica’s Song.
  • See KEVIN ZAK – from the LMAO / NYIT family – as Kenneth Star – We miss not having Kevin around for our shows/workshops but could not be more proud of his work in this show!!!

www.ClintonTheMusical.com

DISCOUNT TICKETS CLICK HERE

CLINTON THE MUSICAL
AT NEW WORLD STAGES

DIRECTED AND CHOREOGRAPHED BY DAN KNETCHGES

May 22 Happy Hour Photos

happyhourfridaysGREAT SHOW THIS WEEK!!!

Our biggest night yet we had a great crowd and even better show. Thanks for all that are making this new series such a success!!

Featuring:
My Neighbor’s Neighbor
Hand Me Downs
Uncle Taft
Call Your Mom
Special Musical Guest
Shane Morrison

CHECK OUT FUTURE HAPPY HOUR LINE UPS
CLICK HERE

$10 cover includes 1st drink
3-4 Comedy Troupes go head to head to head… NO Competition. Nothing but SUPPORT to play and entertain. Come play and enjoy 1/2 price drinks or just come watch some amazing experimental comedy theater!!!

CLICK HERE to see full calendar and buy tickets to Improv Shows at the Broadway Comedy Club

FREE TICKETS for FLEET WEEK Guests at the #Broadway #Comedy #Club #NYC

SATURDAY onlineboxofficediscount
MAY 23, 2015

IMPROV COMEDY
3 & 8pm
STAND-UP
9 & 11pm

FREE ADMISSION IN UNIFORM

nyitteens

We welcome all our honored heroes in uniform. Great to have Fleet Week back in NYC. We have two stages with great entertainment. FIRST COME FIRST SERVE so arrive at least 30-45 minutes early to get in. RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED 212-757-2323

NOT IN UNIFORM – CLICK HERE for discount tickets. GOING TO SELL OUT. W/O uniform we expect to have no door sales available Saturday or Sunday. LIVE Comedy shows seven nights every week.

BROADWAY COMEDY CLUB
318 West 53rd Street
New York, NY 10019
Between 8th/9th
5 minute walk from the Intrepid
1 block from Letterman
Neaer all Times Square and Columbus Circle trains

Check out our classes too!

SATURDAY 3pm
IMPROV COMEDY

Great theater, music and comedy all rolled into one. This show is known as a family friendly event. So bring your family too OR enjoy some clean comedy for all ages.
ONE DRINK MINIMUM per GUEST

SATURDAY 8pm
LMAO IMPROV COMEDY

Basically same show as 3pm (professional artists form Stage & Screen) but geared 18 and over. Less Raunchy than stand up but still hilarious.
WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY NYC-STYLE!!!

SATURDAY 9 & 11pm  
ALL STAR STAND-UP COMEDY

Professional artist – all national headliners with TV credits – take the stage to deliver some of the best comedy in New York City.

9pm: Headliner Showcase – Jon Fisch, Drew Fraser, Calise Hawkins

May 16 @ 9:00 PM

| $27

Jon Fisch (Last Comic Standing, Letterman)
Drew Fraser (Comedy Central)
Calise Hawkins (Oxygen Network)

  • Jon Fisch
    Jon Fisch
  • Drew Fraser
    Drew Fraser
  • Calise Hawkins
    Calise Hawkins

11pm: Headliner Showcase – Mark Normand, Nore Davis, Ronnie Wilkerson

May 16 @ 11:00 PM

| $27

Mark Normand (Comedy Central)
Nore Davis (Comedy Central)
Ronnie Wilkerson

  • Mark Normand
    Mark Normand
  • Nore Davis
    Nore Davis
  • Ronnie Wilkerson
    Ronnie Wilkerson

GREAT SHOWS SUNDAY TOO!!!

9pm: Top Headliners – Kevin McCaffery, Costaki Economopoulos, Nore Davis, Ophira Eisenberg, Chris Murphy

May 24 @ 9:00 PM

| $22

Kevin McCaffery (Comedy Central)
Costaki Economopoulos (Showtime, Comedy Central, Bob and Tom Show)
Nore Davis (Amy Schumer Show, Comedy Central, MTV. Russell Simmon’s The Ruckus)
Ophira Eisenberg (The Moth, NPR. CBS Craig Ferguson Show)
Chris Murphy

  • Kevin McCaffrey
    Kevin McCaffrey
  • Costaki Economopoulos
    Costaki Economopoulos
  • Nore Davis
    Nore Davis
  • Ophira Eisenberg
    Ophira Eisenberg
  • Chris Murphy
    Chris Murphy

EVERY NIGHT 9 & 11pm8sidebar

Check full line-up calendar of shows and professional comics atwww.broadwaycomedyclub.com

BIOs of Many of our regular comics….
Check out their pages and online videos!!!

  • Rich Aronovitch has recently appeared on Gotham Comedy LIVE on AXS TV, dancing with Charo on NBC’S The Tonight Show with Jay Leno; has hosted multiple episodes of Three Men and A Chick Flick on The W.E. Network; Last Comic Standing on NBC; The Upright Citizen’s Brigade on Comedy Central; Killer Sets on Time Warner on Demand; Series Pilot Love Sport on MTV; and series pilot Last Laugh At Pips on HBO featuring Woody Allen. Rich Aronovitch recently was nominated for the LA Comedy Awards “Break Out Comic of The Year” and won the Las Vegas Film Festival’s “Silver Ace Award” for his film Waiting To Stand-Up (where Rich he plays ten different roles). His diverse style has allowed Aronovitch to appear in such prestigious venues as Madison Square Garden, the Performing Arts Center in Providence, The Borgota in Atlantic City, The Orleans in Las Vegas, The Music Box Theater in Foxwoods, the Berkley Center in Boston. Rich has appeared in multiple comedy festivals such as: The Toyota Comedy Festival in NY, The Capetown International Comedy Festival in South Africa, The Laughing Skull Comedy Festival in Atlanta, The New Orleans Comedy Festival, The Underground Comedy Festival in New York, The Hometown Comedy Project in Houma, and was a finalist in the Boston Comedy Festival. Rich will be appearing on the Television show Kamikazee TV on the Fuel Network, Exposed on the Travel Channel this year, and will be seen in the upcoming movie Wingman Inc. You can hear Rich on Friday’s with Jim Breuer on Raw Dog Channel 99, XM Sirius Radio playing the character of Juan Gonzalez Enrique Conzuela Papi Chulo Huevos.  Rich has just guest hosted The Morning Show on Playboy TV and Playboy Radio and will be the guest host for the week of Nov 10-14th.Nore DavisFresh off his performance in the 2014 New Faces Of Comedy Showcase at the prestigious Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal, Nore Davis has cemented himself as a rising star in the world of comedy. Nore, known for his energetic performances and magnetic stage presence, has appeared on Comedy Central, MTV, and Gotham Comedy Live on AXS TV. His talents have also earned him television-acting roles on shows that include,Inside Amy Schumer, Last Week Tonight and the Emmy award winning HBO series Boardwalk Empire.Chris DistefanoDescribed as a high energy comic, Chris Distefano acts out a variety of characters derived from his life, typically leaving you on the edge of your seat wondering: “Who the hell is that he’s talking about?” Chris has worked at all of the top comedy clubs across New York City including, but not limited to, Gotham Comedy Club, Carolines on Broadway and The Comic Strip. Chris still lives in Brooklyn, NY with his Mom (punch line).Chris has a Bachelors degree in Psychology to impress his mom’s friends and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy to impress his mom’s friend’s moms. That kind of thinking got him on the SNY network as the host of the Fencing Masters at Hammerstein Ballroom. It also got him all the way to the Elite 8 of the March Madness Comedy Competition at the world famous Carolines on Broadway (two years in a row). Chris also was selected to headline Carolines on Broadway Breakout Artist Series and was selected as a finalist in the New York Comedy Festival. Chris has opened up for comedy legends such as Richard Lewis, Gilbert Gottfried and Artie Lange. Chris has been heard on Sirius XM radio, is a regular on MTV2’s “Guy Code” and his left elbow was featured on a national Subway commercial. It’s a good elbow. When he’s not making witty remarks or transforming into various personas on stage, you can find him stretching people’s hamstrings and getting yelled at to clean his room.Sean DonnellyWhen he’s not catching a nap with his bulldog, Rickles, Sean can be found headlining clubs all over New York, including Caroline’s, Gotham, Stand Up NY, and The Stand. He has appeared on MTV’s World of Jenks and The Late Show with David Letterman. Sean was a Comic Stand-Off finalist at the 2010 Magners Comedy Festival, performed at the Bridgetown Comedy Festival in 2011 and 2012, was a semi-finalist in the 2012 Boston Comedy Festival competition, and performed at Comedy Central’s 2013 South Beach Comedy Festival. Sean was a Montreal Just For Laughs “New Face” in 2013. He co-hosts the podcast My Dumb Friends with fellow comedian Dan St. Germain, soon to be broadcast on Comedy Central Sirius, and hosts a weekly show at Alligator Lounge in Brooklyn. Sean can be seen regularly on the TruTV series World’s Dumbest and on the forthcoming season of Adam Devine’s House Party on Comedy Central.Jon FischJon has appeared on the Late Show with David Letterman, has been featured in Maxim Magazine, and was the host of the widely popular podcast, “In the Tank”. A prolific monologist with universal appeal, Jon focuses on the idiosyncrasies of city living. Shortly after moving to NYC from his native Boston, he was chosen as one of Comedy Central’s Fresh Faces of Comedy and named one of Back Stage Magazine’s 10 Standout Stand-ups.His appearance on Last Comic Standing 4 – where he was the New York City Capital One Audience Favorite – earned him wide recognition and a new legion of fans. His other TV appearances include Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, VH1, Celebrity Apprentice, and 3 Men and a Chick Flick on the WE Network where he served as a host. Interestingly, the credit people seem most impressed by was that he was handpicked to open for Jerry Seinfeld in 2009 at Gotham Comedy Club

    Jon has performed at multiple festivals including the 2007 HBO Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen and the 2010 Great American Comedy Festival at the Johnny Carson Theatre in Norfolk, Nebraska. In addition, he was a critical favorite at the prestigious Montreal “Just for Laughs” Festival where he appeared in both the “New Faces” showcase and the Club Series show “Dating It.” Following his impressive performances, Jon was singled out by the Hollywood Reporter and the Montreal Gazette as a “stand out performer”. Most recently, he was invited to perform at this year’s TBS “Just For Laughs” Comedy Festival in Chicago.

    Jon also tours the country performing in theaters and colleges, corporate events and clubs. A staple in the NYC scene, he is a favorite at Gotham Comedy Club, the Comedy Cellar, and the World Famous Comic Strip Live.

    Marina Franklin

    New-York based Marina Franklin is emerging as one of the hottest comedians in the comedy scene today, with such notable appearances as, Wanda Syke’s Herlarious, Showtime’s Women Who Kill, Craig Ferguson’s Late Late Show, The Jay Leno Show, Chappelle’s Show, Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn, NBC’s Last Comic Standing Season II, and Showtime at The Apollo.

    She is a favorite in Comedy Festivals across the world, like Melbourne Comedy Festival, Scotland’s Glasgow Comedy Festival, BBC’s World Stand’s Up, Rotterdam’s Comedy Factory, Montreal’s Just For Laughs, Ireland’s Kilkenny Comedy Festival, and Nashville’s Bonnaroo Music Festival. Franklin’s career in entertainment wasn’t always in stand-up comedy; originally from Chicago, she made her acting debut at the Illinois Rep Theatre. She then quickly realized her love for acting and went on to pursue a MFA in acting at Syracuse University. Franklin is viciously likeable, if there is such a thing.

    Harrison Greenbaum

    Harrison began performing stand-up comedy while studying psychology and English at Harvard.  A summa cum laudegraduate, Harrison was the co-founder of the Harvard College Stand-Up Comic Society (or “Harvard College SUCS,” as the group’s name is cheekily acronymized), the first organization at Harvard dedicated to the performance and appreciation of stand-up comedy and one still popular on campus today.

    Now living in Manhattan, Harrison has quickly become one of the most in-demand comedians in New York, performing in more than 600 shows a year and thus leading bothTime Out New York and the NY Daily News to call him “the hardest-working man in comedy.”  One of Comedy Central’s “Comics to Watch,” Harrison has also received many awards and honors for his comedy, including the Andy Kaufman Award (2010) for creativity and originality in comedy, the Shorty Award in collaboration with Comedy Central and the New York Comedy Festival for “Best Emerging Comic” (2011),and the Magners Comic Stand-Off (2011).

    On television, Harrison was featured on AXS.TV’s Gotham Comedy Live and National Geographic Channel’s Brain Games, was a regular panelist on CurrentTV’s Viewpoint, and has appeared on MTV, SPIKE TV, the Discovery Channel, and the Science Channel. Behind the scenes, Harrison was a producer for Primetime: Would You Fall for That? on ABC (which premiered in 2013 to over 3.5 million viewers) and a story producer for VH1’sThis is HOT 97, and was the warm-up comic for Katie, Katie Couric’s daytime talk show on ABC.

    Internationally recognized for his talent, Harrison was the head writer for Tu Nite con Lorenzo Parro, the first-ever late night show on NBCU/Telemundo; was a featured correspondent on the Japanese television show, Scooper, which was broadcast nationally on Nippon TV; and was a featured act in the Magners Glasgow International Comedy Festival in Scotland. Harrison was also the co-host and featured performer of the official Times Square New Year’s Eve World Wide Webcast in 2010 and 2011, broadcasting live to over 250 million viewers around the globe.

    Harrison also headlines comedy clubs around the country, including sold-out shows at TBS Just for Laughs Chicago and the legendary Carolines on Broadway (leading Punchline Magazine to name Harrison one of the “Breakout Artists” of the year).  Harrison has also been featured in a wide variety of national and international publications, including being highlighted for the “Joke of the Week” in TimeOut NYand being featured in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Boston Globe, and CNBC.com.

    Harrison’s one-man show, Harrison Greenbaum: What Just Happened?, debuted at the legendary New York comedy hotspot, the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, before commencing an Off-Broadway run and international tour. (For more information on the show, visit the show’s official site here.)

    Harrison is a talented comedy writer as well.  He is a nationally published author (with selections printed in the books, 50 Successful Harvard Essays, 2nded., and How They Got Into Harvard) and has been a writer for MAD Magazinesince 2005.

    From colleges to comedy clubs, from talk shows to theaters, Harrison is bringing his unique style of comedy to audiences across the country and around the world, proving each night why publications such as Newsdayhave named him one of “today’s best.”

    Calise Hawkins

    The story of me? I’ve done stand up comedy on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” on NBC, “Russell Simmons Presents Stand Up at the El Rey” on Comedy Central, “Stand Up In Stilletos” on TV Guide Channel, “Gotham Live” on AXS tv, two episodes of “Nick Mom Night Out” on Nick Jr, and two seasons of “Last Comic Standing” on NBC.

    CHRIS MURPHY

    Chris Murphy is one of the most experienced comedy teachers in New York City. He has been in the business over 20 years and teaching over 15. He is also a well-respected comedian by his pears. He has appeared on the same shows as comedy legends as Ray Romano, Louie CK, Colin Quinn, Dave Attell, Sarah Silverman, Brett Butler and Bill Hicks.

    Chris Murphy has appeared on A&E’s Evening at the Improv, and Comedy Central’s Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn where he was also a contributing writer. He has done TV show warm ups. Louie CK personally reached out to Chris to be featured in a sketch Louie wrote for Caroline’s Comedy Hour. On the other side of the microphone, Chris also managed the world famous New York Original Improvisation.

    Chris’s students work constantly. They have appeared on The Tonight Show, Conan, Late Late Show, Last Comic Standing, Comedy Central’s Tough Crowd, MTV, and Star Search, Hit sit-com Yes Dear, Dr. Katz, Sarah Silverman Program and Men of a Certain Age. Several students have had their own Comedy Central Presents special. Still others have written for Saturday Night Live!

    Brian McFadden

    Often called “The Father of Modern Stand Up Comedy” Brian Scott McFadden is one of the most incredibly hilarious & frustratingly unappreciated actor/writer/comedians working today, a performer as remarkably gifted as he is inexplicably unacknowledged. After an undenyingly brilliant & insufficiently lauded performance on The Late Show with David Letterman, Brian followed with an equally spectacular & similarly overlooked appearance on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson on CBS. He was most recently seen tearing up the big screen in Ben Stiller’s all star blockbuster “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” in a performance both stunning in its complexity & unfortunate in its brevity. Brian has also just released his new Comedy CD “What Women Want” which has been met with a deceptively small but optimistically moderate level of industry enthusiasm.

    Wali Collins

    New York City’s number one comedian. Born in Springfield, Massachusetts. Wali was and still is an accomplished drummer. Not only currently being a member of the Central Park Djembe drummers. Wali has played in R&B, Pop, Funk and Jazz bands. Wali toured with the award winning Lawrence Bagwell Gospel Choral before graduating High School. And he was the youngest to ever join the New England Jazz Society. After College, Wali was working on being the best Architect New England has ever known. But the calling for show business was too strong. He played in bands, did session work, but that wasn’t enough. He needed more.

    Always having a keen sense of humor, his parents urged him to try stand-up comedy. His first time on stage Wali was convinced that he had bombed, but the manager paid him and asked him to come back every week as a featured act. Wali Collins has been going strong ever since. Wali moved to New York City to work on a show for Comedy Central called “Stand-up Stand-up”. He hosted the largest funniest, most varied collection of stand-up comedians in the world.

    He was nominated three years in a row as “College Campus Entertainer of the Year”. Wali is also the most sought after comedian for corporate events. IBM, L’Oreal, General Motors, Johnson & Johnson, FedEx, Subway restaurants, Game Stop are just a few of the many companies. One of Wali’s greatest achievements was hosting an event featuring for First Lady Michelle Obama. The show went so well he was asked to host another event this time featuring both Presidents Bush and Obama.

    Wali Collins is a regular at all of the main stream Comedy clubs in the United States including New York City and Los Angeles. He even headlines and tours at Comedy clubs in Europe and Asia.

    Collins’ television credits include NBC, CBS, FOX, HBO, ABC’s “The View”, Comedy Central’s The Dave Chappelle show, Commentary on VH1, to name a very few. David Letterman caught Wali’s act and recruited him to warm-up for his show. Later that season Wali performed his stand up on the “Late Show with David Letterman”. Quoted by GQ magazine “Wali’s true purpose becomes evident”.

    He also landed a role in the Jerry Brucheimer hit film “Coyote Ugly”. Wali also was featured in the sitcom “Spin City” and hosted the PBS series special, “Wild TV”. If Wali’s face looks familiar to you it’s because you’ve seen him in over 30 national television commercials.

    In the words of Robert Klein, “Wali Collins is versatile, smart and very, very funny.” Wali is headed only one way, Stardom. If you haven’t seen Wali do his thing in either stand up or acting, you’re missing out on one gifted man.

    Dean Obeidallah

    Born in the Great State of New Jersey, Dean’s comedy comes in large part from his unique background of being the son of a Palestinian father and a Sicilian mother. Dean, an award winning comedian who was at one time a practicing attorney, co-starred on Comedy Central’s “The Axis of Evil”Comedy TV special. He is the co-creator of Comedy Central.com’s critically acclaimed Internet series “The Watch List” featuring a cast of all Middle Eastern-American comedians performing stand up and sketch comedy. Dean has appeared twice on ABC’s “The View,” on the nationally syndicated TV series “Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen” and was one of five comedians profiled in the recent one hour TV Special entitled: “Stand Up: Muslim-American Comics Come of Age” which aired in the US on PBS and internationally on BBC World and Al Jazeera.

    JJ Ramirez

    Known as “The Latin Lunatic” J.J. Ramirez tours the country as a national headliner. He can be heard frequently on The Howard Stern Show. One of New York’s very best headliners, a regular at America’s top tier clubs including The World Famous Comic Strip, The Improv and Carolines On Broadway. On television, J.J. has appeared on A&E’s “Comedy on the Road”, “Evening at the Improv”, Showtime at the Apollo, Fox’s “Comic Strip Live” and Comedy Central. In the casinos, J.J is also well-entrenched having appeared at Atlantic City’s Borgata Casino and The Tropicana in Las Vegas. He is also featured in the award winning movie The Latin Legends of Comedy.

CREATING CONTENT – Sharing your work

Continued from https://newyorkimprovtheater.com/2015/05/21/creating-content-becoming-your-own-boss-as-an-artist/

So yesterday I posted a lot of ideas. Lets start talking about sharing your work. Below are a number of ways showcase yourself.

Remember to ALWAYS BE CREATING… When a band goes on tour, they write songs for the next album.

Don’t just create on one platform. Below are a number of ways to share your work, but the real power is your own cross promotion. Different platforms reach different demographics.

Our success comes from having as good live show. We have a website that promotes our public shows in NYC, touring company, private gigs and educational outreach. Our blog posts allows us to share more up to date information than the relatively stagnant webpages. We create original sketches and share videos of live shows via YOUTUBE, VINE and Instagram. We use social media to share our web pages and blog posts as well as interact with fans. We attract new fans to the live show via our video sketches and funny tweets and instagram photos….

EVERYTHING WE DO is designed to entertain, inform AND promote our other content. LIVE promotes ONLINE and vice versa. Flyers, Business Cards, Magnets, Key Chains, DVDs, T-shirts, Caps and other merchandising promote all. Never mind making money yet. Just start sharing. Social media promotes all…

JUST START SHARING…

We will figure out ways to make a living later. (SOON…) but for now just get up on stage and sharer you talent. TWEET a funny thought. Post a Youtube video of you singing, ranting (VLOG) etc.

WHY CONTENT CREATION

1) ABC – Always Be Creating – Every time you create you turn on the creative juices. The more often you create the more easily you go into creative mode and develop your talents.
2) Get paid – More about this later. While this for many is the ultimate goal, if you start with this you will probably skip some valuable steps.
3) Content Marketing – Creating content helps promote / SELL you, your products or another’s. Maybe you are helping a friend start a business. You create a YOUTUBE video to entertain but create awareness. This blog promotes my live shows, classes and the individual talents of all our artists. Casting Directors find us for projects directly here. Clients hire us for private/corporate events. We find new audiences for public shows and students for classes.
4) Create opportunities for yourself – creating your own content takes your career and life into your own hands.

BLOG

Everyone has a passion. Everyone knows something about something. BLOG about it. BLOG is also the easiest way to create a website that promotes all that you do. I can update this blog form my phone in seconds. I can create entire posts in minutes. Blogs by nature are content rich and do very well in searches. SEO is the future for all so LEARN IT WHILE YOU ARE YOUNG!!!

START NOW FOR FREE OR CHEAP

As a professional (or wannabe) artist you better have YOURNAME.com. If you do not GO NOW and buy it. $10-20/year on GODADDY. $18/year on WORDPRESS directly. This used to be an $18/year site. I recently upgraded because I needed more power and this site helps generate gigs, ticket sales for public shows, students for classes and allows us to share news, videos and more with our fans.

ORIGINAL CONTENT

If you have creative writing to share, put it on a blog. Like performing artists, the world of publishing is hard to crack. You are more likely to get a book deal after surviving a plane crash than getting your original work published as a young genius writer. Try writing a new poem every day. How about 1-page of a new story? Share videos, photos etc. I try to blog daily. I create tutorials about Improv games, upcoming shows, tours, feature artist friends etc.

CURATING CONTENT

I hate them but some of the best ways to make money on the internet is to curate information. A museum curator finds art work to display. As a blogger you can curate info on pets, celebrities, politics, fashion, art, music, movies, theater etc.

But even if your curating photos and videos add your own original captions. If you just copy and paste text you actually hurt your blogs reputation with SEO algorithms. And you personal touch.

MAKING BLOGS WORK FOR YOU

Do some research on how to create tags for your blog. There are certain ways to create titles that grab attention. Honestly, do better than I at editing your blogs (I know I have typos, thanks Mom). Take some time to re read before posting. For important info I will share with clients I create in WORD document to harness the better spell and grammar check. After some time you can learn about meta tags. Make it easy for fans / guests to share and follow your blog. I have 100s that follow this blog. They get and email every time I post with highlights and links.

LITTLE TRICK

Make the top of your post visually pleasing. Put anything important in the top few lines. Most will never read the words I am typing right now. If you are, THANK YOU.

WHY BLOGS ARE SO POWERFUL

While most will never read these words, these words i am typing right now serve as content marketing. Blogs are TEXT rich. Many artist websites have great videos and photos but very little to actually be found in searches. FLASH is pretty but does ZERO for SEO. 90% of our new clients come from searching on the internet. All other marketing – trade shows, flyers, postcards – barely return on investment. I don’t waste a penny on traditional ads. Social media is free but text rich blogs and websites get us seen.

THE SOONER THE BETTER

Like most businesses, websites usually last less than a year. So a website that has existed for 10 plus years – like our primary sites – do very well in Google and other searches. Scam sites never last that long. They are considered trusted and have received positive reviews form 1000s of fans. Every day you wait to start someone else is starting and leaving you in their dust. Anyone that thinks they do not need a website is FOOLISH. There is no better way to let the world know you exist and to control your message and image.

SOCIAL MEDIA

There is no secret to the power of social media. But too many young people see social media platforms purely as entertainment and ways to pass the time. The young folks that learn to harness the power of social media quickly surpass their seniors. Social media, when optimized exponentially expands your personal reach. You can share your videos, photos and blogs posts with all your ever growing network of friends, family and fans. Everything you do LIVE or otherwise should be sending folks to your social media platforms. Photos/Videos go viral when your followers share your content with their followers. Kind of like a pyramid scheme with out all the creepy baggage of AMWAY or bad “Health” pills.

TWITTER – Twitter is probably the most powerful way to share you stuff. Keep your followers up to date. Twitter is one of the few platforms where spam is less likely to lose you followers. 

FACEBOOK – Once my favorite I have recently become a more twitter centric guy. Although in tandem with other platforms Facebook is almost like another blog or website. But these days when you post something on facebook, it is not seen by all of your “FRIENDS”. I real friend of mine – and former cast mate in this troupe – was on the plane that almost crashed into the water at LaGuardia this year. He was posting from the plane. I found out three days later. His message was lost among the cat pics and videos. I was pissed. But for every live show you do, post a Facebook Event. Share that event page on Twitter. I have tweets automatically popping up on my FAN PAGE.

NEW to FACEBOOK we have seen in recent months a huge increase in viewership when he host videos directly on facebook. In the past we always hosted on YOUTUBE because we were ultimately hoping to monetize the content. More about the $$$ later but more people on FB see the content if we host there directly. For us content online does more to promote our live show and talents than actually make money from views (which take A LOT online to turn into cash).

VINES / INSTAGRAM

While considered by most to be social media platforms, to me these are content hosting platforms.

Even a series of instagram photos tells a story.
– You are a fun loving party goer that people would love to hang out with.
– You travel and share beautiful places.
– You are adventuresome and have photos doing crazy activities.

VINES  and INSTAGRAM videos are entertainment. Creating a 6-second video is not easy. A great VINE has a beginning – middle – end.

EVERYONE should have a VINE and INSTAGRAM account.

Create a new video EVERYDAY and you will find an audience. Develop a following. Develop your talents.

VINE and INSTAGRAM do not generate income they way YOUTUBE can but successful creators do make money making videos promoting products and companies.

Many are getting TV and Commercial deals from their work on VINE. When a movie or other projects gets a green light, investors are looking for proof they can make their money back and then some. A VINE creator with 1,000,000 followers comes with a built in fandom that is more loyal than most big stars can brag.

VINE is possibly now the best way to develop that social media following.

INSTRAGRAM offers a longer video platform AND you can share photos.

Both platforms can help promote other projects.

YOUTUBE, VIMEO etc

If you have a script, try making your own sketches and short films on a shoe string budget. Host online and watch the hit count go up (By sharing around other social media platforms). There are many ways to monetize (MORE TO COME I PROMISE). But more importantly, YOUTUBE is possibly the best way to showcase your talents in 2015.

It takes a lot to get 20 or more see ONE live showcase. One of our videos recently surpasses 500,000 views. Our worst videos have 100+. We get college gigs and sell tickets to live shows from our online video fans.

When a casting director ask “Can you play ____?” I probably have a video to show me playing a similar character.

In 2015 we currently have a project where we are trying to post a YOUTUBE video daily with many of our artists personally uploading a video weekly.

This video has 350,ooo views

LIVE PERFORMANCE

If you are a student, you are lucky. Schools are basically a series of rooms that need activities to fill. Budget cuts take arts out every day. Bad tests steal time from valuable learning experiences.

WHO CARES? The old models of arts education do little to prepare you for a career of content creation anyway. Start a club. Poetry, Comedy, One Act plays etc. Do what we do in NYC every day and night. START YOUR OWN SHOW.

At school you can do this for FREE. Schools don’t want to pay for programs but I have worked with parents and teachers that volunteer their time in schools in every county form DC to Boston. They will pay me to show them the basics and then run their own program. But you do not need me. At some point you want me or someone similar to help take your program to the next step.

I learned Improv watching WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY. I learned piano plunking out notes after watching STAR WARS as a kid. I learned to tap dance watching YANKEE DOODLE DANDY with my mother as a kid. I learned Guitar watching my father play around the house. At some point I did take classes. I learned technique. But for every hour with a teacher there were years of self exploration in the arts. By the age of 10 I was playing trumpet with my father at the local community band. I hated in school band playing three blind mice because every Friday night – and for 30-40 gigs/year – we were playing Sousa marches, Broadway tunes, jazz and even Rock n’ Roll classics.

I have nothing against school and teachers, but they are worthless without a student that wants to learn and discover. SIDE BAR – perhaps this is the problem with the new world of TESTING.

Success is not going to come from a great school or teacher. SUCCESS comes from one that wants to succeed and finally gets smart enough to want to listen and learn from ALL around.

TAKE ADVANTAGE of the tools you have at your disposal.

Turn a class room into an open mic after / before school (Or at lunch). Find other musicians, poets, comics that need a place to showcase and practice performing in front of others.

Find 4-5 friends and create your own comedy team – improv and/or sketch.

You may need a teacher or parent to serve as “Sponsor”. Most schools require an adult to chaperon. Parents do this for free. I have yet to meet a principal to turn down FREE resources. (Well there was one with EGO so big… never mind… but that was ONE out of 1000s.. in that case change schools) MOST Administrations are desperate to replace program that have been ripped away by politicians.

Once in college you can do all of this w/o adult supervision.

IF NOT IN SCHOOL or you cannot get school to help, go to your local library, community center, church/temple, etc. Find a place you feel safe that cost you ZERO!

NEXT

Find a more public venue. Retirement homes always love free entertainment. Libraries have public spaces for performance. Coffee shops will give you a chance to play. If 18/21+ there are plenty of bars. Many arts complexes have co-op deals – free or reduces space for new/young artists.

Get creative. It is not easy getting paid jobs at comedy clubs. For every paid job in theater and music there are 100s and 1000s of aspiring young artists. As a result I bet there are 1000+ non-traditional performance spaces in NYC’s 5 boros alone being used to showcase talent.

NEXT

Getting some audiences, try asking for $5/guest. Or maybe ask venue for $50 to hosts a show and bring them business. At a bar/restaurant maybe get a percentage of the bar.

I ran THE EAST VILLAGE SHORT FILM FESTIVAL in 2004. At a venue called Fusion on A, we screen 2-3 hours of videos. By simply putting an ad on craigslist we got hundreds of submissions. Our Improv team served as opening act. We did a 45 minute set before playing the first film. “FILMS” ranged from artistic works to sketch comedy videos to documentary. One the pieces had a film maker going into china to uncover horrible conditions for some residents. Amazing footage. Another was a mockumentary about karate dojo starring Uma Thurman’s brother. The winner of the entire festival was some interesting footage of Italian beaches set to some music. Simple and Elegant.

FREE TO ATTEND, the restaurant gave me 10% of the bar and food sales.  I made about $150/night. I paid the winner a $200 prize. the rest covered my costs to market (flyers etc).

While running shows at the NY Improv in 2005, we started to sell tickets on the street of Times Square. We were getting 20 or so guests just handing out flyers. Around April 2005 we started selling out on Sunday night. By that summer we were running 6-8 shows/week. And anyone that sold tickets made $50-200/show. Our part time showcase efforts (originally to find an agent and get on stage) become a full time business. Three of us left our day jobs. We were getting 120-140 guests on Sunday and Monday (8 & 10pm show in a 70-seat room).

Self-Producing artists are making a name for themselves all over town and many are supplementing their income and / or supporting themselves from small stages.

You no longer have to “FIND A PRODUCER” ( A term I am shocked to hear these days but still do daily). Like any business (Watch Shark Tank?) every time you bring in someone to help, you are splitting the pie. Too often artists split that pie because they are lazy or simply snobs (ARTEESTS). If bringing on a partner or employee or consultant will actually bring in a benefit by all means proceed. But 90% of the time in this business, we give away too much too soon. Jobs we can do our selves with some hustle, some research,by truing and falling our faces a few times to learn for ourselves… Don’t sell yourself too short.

Eventually the paid gigs will come. But these days venues are paying less and less. I make more producing my own shows than I would in most theater setting, with the exception of Broadway / Broadway Tour. But I do not have to re audition for another job every 3-6 months either. CHEERS to sleeping in while others wait on line at NYC studios at 5am…

AND FINALLY LETS MAKE MONEY CREATING CONTENT…

To be continued