Comedy night at home

What it is

A comedy club in your living room, a function room or a pub. Book one or two stand-up comedians for a private gig, set up cabaret tables and a “stage” with a spotlight, and run it like a real club night.

Plan ahead

• Six weeks before: book a comedian through an agency. Discuss the audience, content level and any no-go topics.
• Two weeks before: invite guests to submit a short funny story for the open-mic roast.
• The day before: set up chairs facing a stage area, a mic and a speaker.

Set the scene

A brick wall backdrop, a stool and a mic stand in a spotlight, small tables with candles, and a neon “Comedy Club” sign.

Running order

• MC: introduces acts and keeps energy up.
• Opening act: 15-20 minutes.
• Interval: bar and food.
• Headliner: 20-30 minutes.
• Roast: 2-3 friends with 2 minutes each.

Food and drink

• Bar snacks, sliders and sharing boards
• A drinks bar with a signature cocktail
• Popcorn in paper cones

Tips

• Keep the room dark except for the stage light - comedy works better.
• Brief the comedian about the guest of honour.