I performed my 1st official Headline-set a few weeks ago. The first time I’ve been billed as “Headliner” where people bought tickets to watch 45 minutes of jokes I’ve written over the past 9-years. I appreciated the opportunity, but the sound system was awful; the stage squeaked and the seating was less than ideal. I’ve had better sets, but at least the audience was entertained and the milestone REACHED! I’m proud of having achieved that goal in under 10 years. I also feel the pressure of:
“The Business of Comedy“
Writing an act is hard; Selling that act is harder!
I’ve noticed a “tired-sadness” projected by some successful comics. It’s not evident on stage, but in the down-time, they’re weary because the business is stressful. Until now, the joy of discovery has kept me going; It drew me! Now, instead of just walking down the path, I must push / pull my wagon to keep it moving. Branding, Marketing, Networking, Campaigning, and Selling. Do I have the stamina?? I remember the innocence that I lost when I found out how scripted standup is; I’ve come to terms with that. I don’t want to lose more of my soul from the “business”. In order to make it work, I must retain my passion for this art!