The Open Mic Comedy podcast is aimed at those on the open mic circuit, a place for open mic comedians to tell their stories on how, why and where they got into ...
061 - Accents, Audiences & Adaptation with Gracie M
It's Gracie M, a Venezuelan comedian making waves in the London comedy circuit. From open mics to Barcelona, to the Edinburgh Fringe, Gracie shares the highs and lows of performing, the challenges of running a showcase, and the unique experience of doing stand-up in multiple languages.They dive into the art of translating humour, how cultural context shapes comedy, and the struggle of balancing a day job with a passion for stand-up. Gracie also reveals her approach to accents, impressions, and audience dynamics, and why understanding joke structure is key to success. Plus, she takes on a comedian’s challenge, proving that even serious topics can end in laughs!Whether you’re a comedy fan or an aspiring comic, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and plenty of laughs. Tune in! 🎤😂Listen now – and let’s keep the mic open! 🎧✨LINKS:Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypodGracie M: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graciedoescomedyAm I the Asshole Show:27th February 2025 - 7pmThe Castle, 44 Commercial Road, Aldgate, Londonhttps://fienta.com/am-i-the-a-hole?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaKn8VBEvY9JjwcPgmhoEcDQUBlC2ywxy5y__jBCM6iBh1eWFbuyeDbupg_aem_N4gJHgUPlBUkOS1wrPRgpA ————————Music: https://www.purple-planet.comVoice Over Segment: John Pape - https://www.johnpape.co.uk/
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060 - A Year of Progression with Chris Ali
In this episode I’m joined by the hilariousChris Ali for a fun and insightful reflection on his past year in comedy. From open mics to pro gigs, getting paid (finally!), putting on his own showcase night, and traveling beyond London, we break down the highs, the lows, and the unexpected moments along the way.💡What’s in store? • The reality of transitioning from open mics to paid gigs 🚀 • Balancing comedy with life when comedy is not your full time job – is it possible? 🤹♂️ • The best advice for new comedians looking to improve 🎤 • How to navigate the open mic circuit like a pro (or at least fake it till you make it!) 😉 • Afun challenge to round things off with some laughs 🎭Whether you’re just starting out or deep into the comedy grind, this episode is packed withinsights, laughs, and plenty of useful tips to help you on your stand-up journey.Listen now – and let’s keep the mic open! 🎧✨LINKS:Open Mic Comedy Pod:https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypodChris Ali: https://www.instagram.com/chris_j_alihttps://www.youtube.com/@chris_j_ali————————Music: https://www.purple-planet.comVoice Over Segment: Duncan Hart - www.opengatecomedy.tv
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059 - Joke, Japes and Jenga (with a Twist) with James Watkins (Moss)
In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, I sit down with comedian James Watkins aka Moss, celebrated for his unique characters and engaging stage presence. Together, they dive into the wild world of comedy, from the thrill of performing in unconventional settings like bingo halls to the camaraderie and challenges of the open mic scene.James opens up about his worst on-stage moments, the creative process behind crafting comedic personas, and the joy of entertaining audiences, whether at Hamleys or on the comedy circuit. The conversation also explores the evolution of their styles, the art of audience engagement, and the playful absurdities that define comedy.As they chat, James shares his aspirations to host a reboot of Shooting Stars and his plans for an interactive show called Dick Speeds Death Jenga. The episode wraps up with a lighthearted joke challenge, showcasing the humour that keeps comedy alive.LINKS:Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypodJames Watkins Comedy: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moss_jwTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moss_jwUnskippable Comedy: https://www.instagram.com/unskippabledialogue_comedy/Brighton Fringe: https://www.brightonfringe.org/events/dick-speeds-death-jenga/————————Music: https://www.purple-planet.comVoice Over Segment: John Pape - https://www.johnpape.co.uk/
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058 - The Only Way is Comedy with Amber Phillips
In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, it’s time for comedian Amber Phillips to unpack her journey into the world of stand-up. Amber opens up about overcoming initial hesitations, navigating tricky gigs, and finding her footing in the comedy scene.The conversation dives into Amber’s approach to joke-writing, the desire to MC, and staying sharp through regular stage time. She reflects on lessons from both her best and worst gigs and the unexpected surprises of performing in unconventional venues. Together, Marc and Amber discuss the dynamics of open mic nights, the value of competitions for networking, and the importance of spontaneity and connection with audiences.Amber also shares her thoughts on supporting women in comedy, the psychological hurdles comedians face, and the delicate balance between passion and perseverance in honing their craft. Whether you’re a comedy enthusiast or a performer yourself, this episode offers an insightful and entertaining look at what it takes to thrive in stand-up comedy. LINKS:Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypodAmber Phillips: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frantictypist/Website: https://www.amberphillipscomedy.com/————————Music: https://www.purple-planet.comVoice Over Segment: Duncan Hart - www.opengatecomedy.tv
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057 - Making Comedy Accessible with TV Writer & Director, and Comedian Neil Ben
In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, Marc sits down with Neil Ben—a seasoned comedian and prop master—for a fun and insightful chat about his comedy journey. Neil shares how he went from writing sketches for kids’ TV to performing stand-up, and why getting instant feedback from an audience is so important to him.Neil talks about the highs and lows of the open mic scene, the art of directing yourself on stage, and how his comedy has evolved to include clever visual puns and quick one-liners. There’s also a lot of talk about feedback—giving it, taking it, and using it to grow as a comedian. We discuss the background in writing, directing for some of the biggest channels in TV around the world.Neil also opens up about the challenges disabled comedians face, like accessibility issues in venues, and shares his dream of creating TV stories that feature strong disabled characters. It’s a great conversation about the power of comedy to entertain, connect, and to make a difference. LINKS:Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod Neil Ben Comedy: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neilben10/Website: https://neilben.com———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.comVoice Over Segment: John Pape - https://www.johnpape.co.uk/
The Open Mic Comedy podcast is aimed at those on the open mic circuit, a place for open mic comedians to tell their stories on how, why and where they got into this fascinating industry of making people laugh. We will be delving into their trials and tribulations with being an open mic comedian in the modern day, what makes them tick, how they write their jokes, how much of their material is really true, discussing and dissecting their favourite jokes. Relieving the times they had the room in stitches and also when things did not go according to plan. What they’ve learned along the way and the insights they can give to the next generation of open mic comedians.Alongside the open mic comics you may or may not have heard of, there will be conversations with those people involved in the industry who help bring on the open mic comedian such as promotors and comedy tutors.