Comedy Open Mics in Chicago, USA | Sign Up for a Slot

Pick an open mic night from the list above and open it to see how that room takes sign-ups. Many Chicago nights let you apply for a slot online in a couple of taps; others ask you to turn up and put your name in the hat on the night.

Are open mic nights in Chicago free to perform at?

Almost always, yes. Open mic slots are unpaid stage time rather than a booking, and they are how nearly every comedian starts. Some rooms are bringer nights, meaning you bring a friend or two through the door in exchange for your slot.

How long is an open mic slot?

Five minutes is the standard, sometimes three for a first spot and up to ten once a promoter knows you. Going over your time is the fastest way to not get asked back, so practise to the clock.

I have never performed before. Can I still do an open mic in Chicago?

Yes. Open mics exist precisely for people with no credits, and most Chicago rooms keep slots aside for first-timers. Write five minutes, sign up for a slot, and treat the first few gigs as practice rather than a performance.

How often should I be gigging?

As often as you can get on. Comedians developing new material commonly do several open mics a week, because a joke only really tells you what it is worth in front of an audience.

Still have questions? Read the full FAQ or get in touch.

Comedy Open Mics in Chicago

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Open mics in Chicago: what to know

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