Under 21 Comedian?

[iwearblacksocks]

What's the best advice you can give a comedian under the age of 21 (18, even, for that matter) living in Portland, Oregon?
Comedy is my lifelong dream, i've done it a few times, and I write all the time. But it seems like all the shows offered in Portland are in bars; therefore, over 21.

[ThomasJ]

I don't know about Portland specifically, but I know a 19 year old around here who just talks to the host/bar owner about doing a set, and they'll usually let him in for 5 minutes to perform, and then he has to leave or stay outside or whatever. Performers are sometimes a gray area in age restriction laws, and frankly, as long as they don't serve you, they can usually sneak you in with little risk if you convince them it's worth it. It might help to have a comic who the venue already likes put in a good word for your set.

[DriftRoberts]

I started doing stand-up right when I turned 17 and I'm 19 now. So far my age hasn't gotten in the way of too much stagetime-wise --- I haven't been able to get on certain showcases because some venues are more strict than others, but the majority don't mind. I've never had to wait outside, do my time, and leave right away. Of course, this has been in the Midwest. I imagine it's different all over. If all else fails, find an interested Portland comic and start your own open mike in a venue where age won't matter, like a coffeehouse (not an ideal setting for comedy, but if that's all that will work go for it). Best of luck!!

[JayP7]

I'd ask around to any comics you know about places, and otherwise just take a shot. In my experience lot of bars- maybe even most- don't ID at the door and just ask if you try to buy a drink- especially true during weeknights when most open-mics happen anyways.

[cade_dayton]

i too am an under 21 16 actually comedian new to portland but i did do bars in longview just be cool dont lie about your age and youll get some stage time at least that worked in portland

[scamboogah]

Stay in school (at least until they teach punctuation).

[JustinTee]

Give up comedy and go to college.

But seriously, just tell people you want to perform. If the door person doesn't let you in, ask to speak to a manager. Confidence and persistence helps. If you look hard enough, you can find time on a stage, be glad you are in a city that has opportunities.

[Art Sandal]

I'm under 21 too. In my experience usually no one even asks me. And if they do card me I just get marked and then I'm able to perform. Try looking into alternative venues like coffee and tea places, cafes, hookah bars, music venues, house shows, etc. You could even try and reserve a space from a local university like an auditorium or a classroom, it's what my improv troupe does.

[brandonwardell]

I'm a youth and when I was there for Bridgetown, a couple of the venues would only let me in to go up and then I'd have to go back outside. They seem p strict about that sort of thing but I'm sure most venues will let you perform and then leave at least.

[chrisrozwod]

You can perform, but you usually have to leave right after. Have you considered setting up something at a coffee house for comedians under 21? I bet it would be easy to set up what with Portland being so supportive of art, and such. Plus, it would get you into networking with other comedians your age.