5 Tips on How to Make a Virtual Comedy Show a Success
- Rik Roberts
Are you an event planner thinking about a virtual comedy show?
There are a lot of benefits from incorporating a virtual comedy show into your next virtual meeting, fundraiser, or conference. A virtual comedy show is a great way to increase attendance, heighten engagement, and reduce stress. Turn “Zoom doom” into positive virtual vibes.
How do you make a virtual comedy event successful? Here are 5 top tips when planning your laugh-filled online event.
1 – Hire a comedian who has a professional set-up.
You will want to hire someone who has invested the time and resources into setting up a great virtual stage. Bright lights, excellent sound, and a non-distracting backdrop are a must. You will want to be able to see your comedian as if they were on a stage. A view from at least the waist up will give the audience the vibe that they are watching a comedy special. No one wants to see a “head and shoulders” comedy show!
2 – Let everyone stay unmuted.
Initially, I felt like the typical Zoom distractions would derail the show. But performing in a vacuum of silence only leads to self-doubt. Instead, I prefer to have everyone’s camera and sound up. If individuals would rather self-mute, that is okay. But the more feedback I receive the better the show will be. As a safety net, someone from your group can sign in as “co-host” and mute the occasional barking dog or crying baby.
3 – Do a run-through to work out snags and glitches.
Have you ever been on a virtual call where nothing went wrong? Things happen. But it is better to do a test run to make sure your performer has the basics under control. You definitely don’t want to get a message five minutes before the event, “Uhm, I need to download the software to join. Hang on!”
4 – Less is more, more or less.
HBO and Comedy Central specials are all under an hour. In fact, the typical TV comedy special is only 44 minutes in length with commercials. No one really wants to sit at their desk or stare at their phone for a full hour. Consider having a comedian perform a 20-30 minute set. That is a real sweet spot. It gives the comedian enough time to deliver a solid performance. It also allows the audience to stay engaged for the full show.
5 – Post-show “meet and greet”.
Invite your guests to interact with the comedian after the performance. Think of it as the time in the hallway after the show. When people laugh and connect with your comedian it naturally leads them to want to “meet” them. Set aside a few minutes for the performer to take questions or listen to comments from your group. It will be good for all involved.
Let’s Talk
If you would like to discuss your upcoming event, feel free to contact me through the form below. I’ll reply back within an hour and we can brainstorm. If I am not the right fit for your group I will be happy to recommend someone who is. With thirty years of experience, I aim to serve you and your needs.
