Comedian Resume examples & templates
Copyable Comedian Resume examples
Did you know comedians who perform regularly earn 37% more than those who take the stage sporadically? It's not just about being funny anymore. Today's comedy landscape demands versatility—stand-up, writing, podcasting, social media presence—creating multiple income streams that weren't available even a decade ago. The pandemic forced a seismic shift too, with virtual shows becoming legitimate venues rather than poor substitutes. What used to be a pure stage art now spans platforms from TikTok to Netflix specials, with comedians like Taylor Tomlinson and Shane Gillis building massive followings before landing traditional TV deals.
Behind the spotlight and punchlines lies a business reality few outsiders appreciate: working comics juggle the roles of performer, writer, marketer, and entrepreneur simultaneously; Those willing to embrace both traditional club circuits and digital innovation find themselves with unprecedented career opportunities. As comedy continues blurring with commentary, therapy, and even journalism, we're witnessing the golden age of an art form that's never been more culturally relevant—or financially viable for those who crack its evolving code.
Junior Comedian Resume Example
JAKE RODRIGUEZ
Chicago, IL | (312) 555-0107 | jakerodriguezcomedy@gmail.com | linkedin.com/in/jakerodriguez | Instagram: @jakerodcomedy
Energetic stand-up comedian with 2 years of performance experience specializing in observational and character-driven comedy. Comfortable performing in various venues from small open mics to 200+ seat comedy clubs. Skilled in writing original material, improvisation, and crowd work with ability to adapt performances to different audiences and environments.
EXPERIENCE
Featured Comedian | Laugh Factory Chicago | January 2023 – Present
- Perform 15-20 minute sets as featured act for headlining comedians, warming up crowds of 150-250 people
- Developed 35 minutes of original material through consistent writing and performance refinement
- Selected to perform in “Fresh Faces” showcase highlighting promising new talent
- Collaborate with management to promote shows through social media, resulting in 4 sold-out performances
Regular Performer | Comedy Bar Chicago | August 2022 – Present
- Perform 10-minute sets 2-3 times weekly in rotation of regular performers
- Participate in themed comedy nights including “Roast Battle” and “Joke-Off Competition” (won twice)
- Build and maintain relationships with venue staff, bookers, and fellow comedians
Open Mic Performer | Various Chicago Venues | March 2021 – Present
- Perform at 5-7 open mics weekly to test and refine new material
- Advanced from 3-minute to 5-minute slots based on consistent performance quality
- Created tracking system to evaluate joke performance and audience reactions
Comedy Workshop Producer/Host | The Annoyance Theatre | November 2021 – August 2022
- Co-produced and hosted monthly comedy workshop for 12-15 beginner comedians
- Provided constructive feedback on material, delivery, and stage presence
- Coordinated venue logistics and marketed events through social media and email lists
EDUCATION & TRAINING
Second City Chicago – Improv and Sketch Comedy Program (Completed Levels A-E) | 2021-2022
iO Chicago – Improv for Stand-Up Workshop | 2021
Columbia College Chicago – BA Communications, Minor in Theatre | 2020
Chicago Comedy Film Festival – Stand-Up Business Workshop | March 2022
SKILLS
- Original material writing
- Crowd work & audience interaction
- Character development
- Joke structure & timing
- Improv techniques
- Show promotion
- Social media content creation
- Basic video editing (Adobe Premiere)
- Podcast recording
- Stage presence
ADDITIONAL
Chicago Comedy Podcast Network – Guest on 3 different comedy podcasts
Lincoln Lodge New Faces Competition – Semi-finalist | 2022
Comedy content creator with 7,800+ TikTok followers and 15,000+ combined views
Mid-level Comedian Resume Example
CHARLIE MENDOZA
Los Angeles, CA | (323) 555-8176 | charliemendoza@email.com | linkedin.com/in/charliemendoza
Stand-up comedian with 5+ years performing across the US comedy circuit. Regular at The Comedy Store and featured on “Late Night Laughs” podcast network. Known for observational humor that blends personal stories with social commentary. Skilled in writing, performing, and producing comedy shows that consistently sell out 100-200 seat venues.
EXPERIENCE
Touring Stand-Up Comedian | Self-Employed | Jan 2019 – Present
- Perform 6-8 shows weekly at comedy clubs nationwide, including headlining sets at Laugh Factory Chicago and feature spots at The Comedy Cellar
- Wrote and performed 45-minute special “Slightly Unhinged” that sold out 11 consecutive shows at The Improv in Hollywood
- Built social media following of 47K across platforms, with comedy clips reaching 1.2M views
- Co-created and host “The Back Room,” a monthly comedy showcase featuring emerging talent that averages 92% venue capacity
- Secured representation with Top Shelf Talent Agency (2021) after 3 years of independent bookings
Comedy Writer & Performer | LOL Productions | Mar 2020 – Present
- Contribute weekly sketches and bits to “The Night Cap,” a late-night comedy show with 750K viewers
- Collaborate with team of 5 writers to develop topical humor for rapid-response digital content
- Pitched and produced 3 successful recurring segments, including fan-favorite “Street Roast”
- Perform in quarterly live shows, selling out venues of 250+ capacity in 5 major cities
Open Mic Comedian & Host | Various Venues | Sep 2017 – Dec 2018
- Performed at 200+ open mics across Southern California, developing 30 minutes of original material
- Hosted weekly comedy night at Chuckles Bar & Grill, growing attendance from 15 to 85+ regulars
- Organized and promoted “New Faces” showcase featuring emerging comedians, selling 73 tickets per show on average
EDUCATION
Second City Conservatory Program – Comedy Writing & Performance Certificate (2018)
Upright Citizens Brigade – Improv & Sketch Comedy Training (2017-2018)
California State University, Northridge – BA in Communications (2016)
SKILLS
- Stand-up performance
- Comedy writing
- Crowd work & improvisation
- Show production & promotion
- Podcast hosting
- Social media content creation
- Public speaking
- Audio/video editing (Adobe Premiere, Audacity)
- Sketch comedy
- Networking & industry relationships
ADDITIONAL
- Featured comedian on “Comedy Spotlight” on XM Radio (2022)
- Winner, San Diego Comedy Festival “Rising Star” (2020)
- Semi-finalist, NBC Stand-Up Showcase (2019)
- Podcast guest on 14 comedy and entertainment shows
- Volunteer comedy teacher for “Laughs for Youth” program at local high schools
Senior / Experienced Comedian Resume Example
JASON “J.P.” PETERSON
Los Angeles, CA | (323) 555-7612 | jasonpcomedy@email.com | linkedin.com/in/jasonppeterson
www.jasonpcomedy.com | Instagram: @jpcomedian
Stand-up comedian with 12+ years perfecting the craft across 27 states and 4 countries. Regular at The Comedy Store and Laugh Factory with a trademark blend of observational and storytelling comedy. Featured on Comedy Central’s “Up Next” showcase and opened for Dave Chappelle during his 2022 West Coast tour. Seeking opportunities for TV specials, writing positions, and festival features.
EXPERIENCE
Professional Comedian & Headliner | Self-Employed | 2016 – Present
- Headline at major comedy clubs nationwide, performing 60-90 minute sets to crowds of 150-400 people across 78 venues
- Built and maintained relationships with 35+ club owners and promoters, securing regular bookings and repeat engagements
- Wrote and produced “Midlife Surprises,” a 55-minute special filmed at The Wilbur Theatre (Boston) that gained 723K views on YouTube
- Perform monthly at LA’s top comedy venues including The Comedy Store, Laugh Factory, and The Improv
- Created and co-host “The Morning After,” a weekly comedy podcast with 19K subscribers and an average of 7K downloads per episode
- Featured performer at Just For Laughs (Montreal), Moontower Comedy Festival (Austin), and SF Sketchfest
Featured Comedian & Writer | Comedy Central | Jan 2019 – Dec 2021
- Selected as 1 of 12 comics for Comedy Central’s “Up Next” showcase, resulting in a 7-minute televised set
- Contributed as staff writer for 14 episodes of “The New Nightly,” writing approximately 6-8 jokes per episode
- Developed comedy segments and field pieces, including the recurring “Street Talk” bit that became a fan favorite
- Performed at 3 Comedy Central corporate events and industry showcases
Touring Comedian & Feature Act | Various Venues | 2011 – 2016
- Performed as middle act/feature at comedy clubs across the country, delivering consistent 25-30 minute sets
- Opened for established comedians including Bill Burr, Tom Segura, and Nikki Glaser during regional tours
- Built a social media following of 27K followers while developing a distinct comedic voice and persona
- Produced and marketed 3 self-financed shows during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival (2014-2016)
- Co-founded “Comedy on the Rocks,” a monthly showcase at The Cellar in Portland that sold out 11 consecutive months
EDUCATION & TRAINING
The Groundlings – Advanced Improv Program (Completed all levels) | 2013-2015
UCB Theatre – Improv & Sketch Writing (Levels 1-4) | 2012-2013
University of Oregon – B.A. Communications | 2007-2011
Second City Chicago – Summer Intensive Workshop | 2010
SKILLS
- Long-form storytelling
- Crowd work & audience interaction
- Script writing & punch-up
- Character development
- Improvisation
- Social media content creation
- Podcast production
- Tour booking & management
- Stage presence & timing
- Joke writing & structure
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
Commercial & Voice Acting
Appeared in regional commercials for Pacific Northwest Insurance (2018), BetterBurger chain (2020), and provided voice work for the animated web series “Office Animals” (2021-2022)
Comedy Workshop Instructor
Lead 8-week stand-up workshops at The Comedy Bunker (Los Angeles), teaching 14-18 students per session the fundamentals of joke writing, stage presence, and comedy business basics (2018-Present)
How to Write a Comedian Resume
Introduction
Breaking into comedy isn't just about being funny—it's about marketing yourself effectively. Your resume is the first impression bookers, agents, and casting directors get of you, so it needs to showcase your unique comedic voice and professional experience. I've helped hundreds of comics craft resumes that got them noticed in this competitive field (and yes, even comedians need a solid resume). Let's walk through how to create one that'll make industry folks take you seriously—even if your act doesn't.
Resume Structure and Format
Keep your comedian resume clean and scannable—entertainment professionals often review dozens of submissions in a sitting. Aim for a single page unless you've been performing for 10+ years and have substantial TV credits.
- Use a clean, readable font (Calibri, Arial, or Times New Roman at 11-12pt)
- Include your name, phone, email, and social media handles prominently
- If you have a website or YouTube channel with your performances, feature it near the top
- Stick to reverse chronological order for your performance history
- Save as a PDF to preserve formatting (unless specifically asked for a .doc)
Profile/Summary Section
Your summary should capture your comedic style and professional accomplishments in 2-3 sentences. Think of it as your "tight five" condensed into a paragraph—it should give bookers a taste of what you bring to the stage.
Don't say you're "hilarious" or "side-splitting" in your summary. That's like a chef saying their food is "delicious"—it's for others to judge. Instead, describe your style: "Observational comedian specializing in workplace humor with 6 years of club experience and a 2022 Boston Comedy Festival finalist."
Professional Experience
This is the meat of your resume. Include regular gigs, festivals, competitions, and any TV/radio appearances. For each entry, list:
- Venue/show name and location
- Your role (headliner, featured act, opener, etc.)
- Dates (month/year is fine for older gigs)
- Special achievements (sold-out shows, callback performances)
Example: "The Laugh Factory, Chicago – Regular weekend performer – March 2021-Present – Opened for Jim Gaffigan during his 2022 winter tour"
For comics with less stage time, include improv shows, open mics where you were invited back, podcasts you've guested on, or even YouTube videos that gained traction. We all start somewhere!
Education and Training
Include formal comedy education like improv classes, stand-up workshops, or writing programs. List traditional education too, especially if it's entertainment-related or if you're early in your career.
- The Second City, Chicago – Improv Training Program – Completed 2019
- Comedy Writing Workshop with Sarah Silverman – New York Comedy Festival – Nov 2021
- BA in Communications, University of Michigan – 2018
Keywords and ATS Tips
Many larger venues and TV shows use Applicant Tracking Systems. Include these industry terms naturally throughout your resume:
- Stand-up comedy
- Improv/improvisation
- Sketch writing
- Headliner/feature/opener (whichever applies)
- Comedy writing
- MC/emcee experience
- Corporate events/private shows (if applicable)
Industry-specific Skills
Beyond being funny, what makes you valuable to bookers? Consider including:
- Clean material (if you can work "clean" for corporate gigs)
- Crowd work abilities
- Host/MC experience
- Specific audience demographics you connect with
- Social media following (if substantial—5k+ followers)
- Foreign language abilities (great for international venues)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I've seen plenty of comedian resumes bomb harder than an open mic night. Don't make these mistakes:
- Including random jobs unrelated to entertainment (unless you're brand new)
- Writing your resume in a jokey way (save humor for your act)
- Exaggerating credits (the comedy world is small—people talk)
- Using a headshot that doesn't match your current appearance
- Forgetting to proofread (nothing kills credibility faster than typos)
Before/After Example
Before: "Funny comedian who performs at many places and makes audiences laugh a lot."
After: "Observational comedian with 47 headlining performances at The Comedy Store and Laugh Factory (2021-2023). Featured on Comedy Central's "Up Next" showcase and opened for Nikki Glaser's 2022 Midwest tour (8 shows)."
Remember—your resume gets you in the door, but your talent keeps you there. Update it regularly, be honest about your experience, and use it as a tool to highlight the unique perspective you bring to comedy. Now go get those laughs (and that paycheck)!
Related Resume Examples
Soft skills for your Comedian resume
- Crowd reading and audience rapport – quickly sizing up a room’s energy and adapting material accordingly
- Conflict de-escalation with hecklers without derailing performances
- Cross-cultural sensitivity when performing for diverse audiences
- Resilience through bombing (those painful silent shows that felt like eternity)
- Collaborative writing with other comics and show producers
- Quick problem-solving when venues, equipment or time slots change last-minute
Hard skills for your Comedian resume
- Final Draft screenwriting software for crafting stand-up sets and sketch material
- Adobe Premiere Pro for editing comedy reels and promotional content
- Sound mixing/microphone technique (SM58 handling, wireless lavalier setup)
- Improv frameworks (Harold structure, Yes-And methodology, game theory)
- Crowd work techniques and heckler management strategies
- ProTools for podcast production and comedy album recording
- Comedic timing and beat structure analysis (3-part structure, callbacks, tags)
- Set construction and deconstruction (5/7/10/15/20/45-minute formats)
- Green room and talent coordination for multi-performer shows