open mic

Every comedian will tell you they started out doing ‘open mic’ nights: it’s the only way to get on the circuit and as such is a sure-fire way to catch the stars of tomorrow.

Most established comedy clubs in London are committed to discovering and developing new talent, with weekly sessions giving newer acts the opportunity to practice and improve. Likewise, many nights give more experienced acts a platform to try out new material on audiences who aren’t paying to see their established routines.

OK, the quality of material can be a little patchy and awkward, but with free entry and the chance of discovering fresh new talent, you’re guaranteed to come away with at least a few laughs — whether it’s for all the right or wrong reasons.One of London’s top open mic nights, King Gong, takes place at The Comedy Store on the last Monday of each month. Reviving the venue’s original method for getting ineffectual performers off the stage, new comics do their stuff until the gongmeister and executioner gives them the chop, so to speak.

Meanwhile, Wednesdays at the Comedy Cafe in Shoreditch sees gutsy newbies honing their craft, while the Amused Moose clubs in Soho, Camden and Covent Garden offer various weekly open mic contests and ‘laugh-off’ rounds.

And if you think you can do better, why not have a go yourself? You never know — the audience might agree.

www.thecomedystore.co.uk   www.comedycafe.co.uk   www.amusedmoose.com

Image: Comedy Cafe