How to stage your own show
(and make it a huge success!)

Great North Talent is different from most agencies in that you can book the comedians yourself and therefore save large agency fees. We understand that for some this is new, so here are a few tips to help guide you along the way and ensure your show goes smoothly. If you hire a Great North Talent comedian and follow these guidelines, the success of your event is ensured.

1. Decide what your budget is in advance.
As you can see by their individual credits, this is a site dedicated to professional, established comedians. Our lowest priced shows start at $750 and prices go up to $5000 depending on travel, demand, etcetera. If your budget is less than $750, it would not be worth your time to contact any of these artists. This does not mean you are completely out of luck though, visit your local comedy club and approach some of the supporting acts. These up and coming comedians would most likely be thrilled at the opportunity to perform at your event.

2. Sound & Lighting: IMPORTANT!!
Please be sure that the sound system is of professional quality.

  • A Shure SM 58 microphone is the workhorse of stand up comedy and is what comics are most familiar with. If that is not available, a mic of similar quality will be sufficient.
  • A straight microphone stand (not a podium) is required.
  • Allow plenty of microphone cord. If a wireless mic is being used, please ensure that it has a fresh battery.
  • A stool (or chair) for the stage is a good idea.
  • Lighting the stage and dimming the room lights will help focus the audience's attention.

3. Placement of Stage
The audience should be seated as close to the performer as possible. Stand up comedy is an intimate art form and this will help establish a connection between the comedian and his/her audience. Make sure everyone has a clear view of the stage. The traffic flow of the room should not be near the stage (for example, the route to the restrooms or the bar). Not only is this distracting for the performer, but often audience members will feel self conscious if they have to walk in front of the stage for any reason.

4. Food Service
Food service should not take place during the show. If this is an after-dinner performance, the best time for the comedian to go on is just as desserts are being finished. Laughter is a great way to relax after a good meal and allows your guests to sit and digest before any dancing or other activities begin.

5. Audience Focus
Let your group knows well ahead of time that a stand up comic will be a part of the event as opposed to surprising them. Anticipation builds excitement. Also, please delegate someone from your group to give the comedian a brief, but proper introduction. If possible, let your guests know that although a comedian can usually have a good comeback for a heckler, the interaction is usually not as funny as the crafted joke it interrupted. Please make sure that cell phones, televisions, etc. are turned off and that conversations are kept down.

6. Showtime
Often a comic can have more than one engagement in an evening, so please try to start on time.

7. Green Room
If possible, please provide the artist with a private room or an area that he/she can collect their thoughts prior to the performance.

8. Payment
Comedians require a minimum 50% down payment upon booking and the balance at the show. Each comedian will have a different policy on this, so be sure to establish that early in your conversation with them.

If you have any more questions, please feel free to contact us.
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