Plan your show
You've booked the comedy. Here's everything to set up before showtime so your guests get the biggest laughs.
The six essentials
If you only do six things, do these. Each one is explained in the full article and the client guide.
- A stage or elevated performance area
- Clear sightlines so every guest can see the performer
- A handheld microphone (preferred) or a quality lapel microphone
- Lighting that clearly lights the performer's face
- No food or beverage service during the performance
- No competing distractions: background music, video, slideshows or announcements
Your pre-show timeline
As soon as you book
- Confirm the date, start time and set length.
- Name an on-site contact who can answer questions and make quick adjustments on the day.
- Send the venue name and address, plus parking and entrance details.
- Tell Mike about the crowd: who's coming, about how many, and what the occasion is.
- Share anything worth knowing: names to mention, inside jokes, or topics to steer clear of.
A few weeks before
- Share the client guide with your venue or AV team, and confirm the microphone, sound system and lighting.
- Plan the room: a stage or riser, seats turned toward the stage, front tables close.
- Build the run of show so comedy follows dinner, with food service finished before the set.
- Promoting a public show? Use the photos and bio below, and link to Mike's calendar.
The week of the show
- Reconfirm times, the on-site contact and phone numbers.
- Send the final run of show.
- Choose who will introduce Mike and give them the introduction below.
Show day
- Allow 45 to 60 minutes before guests are seated for arrival and a sound check.
- A quiet space for pre-show preparation is appreciated when available.
- Before the set: food service done, music and screens off, doors closed, house lights dimmed.
- Hold announcements until the set is finished.
After the show
- Enjoyed it? Leave a review. It helps other planners decide.
- Planning next year already? Check a date while it's fresh.
An introduction to read
Give this to whoever introduces Mike. Keep it short, read it as written, and end with his name.
Our entertainer tonight is a nationally recognized, award-winning comedian whose comedy has been featured on The Tonight Show, Comedy Central and Dry Bar Comedy. He's been married for more than 40 years, he's a grandfather of seven, and he's here to make you laugh! Please give a big welcome to Mike James!
Bio and photos for your program
For printed programs, event pages, newsletters and social posts.
Mike James is a nationally recognized, award-winning clean comedian. One of seven kids, he learned early that the surest way to get attention was to make people laugh, and he's been doing it ever since: as the class clown, aboard a U.S. Navy destroyer, and on stages across the country. A husband of more than 40 years and a grandfather of seven, Mike turns the everyday chaos of marriage, family and getting older into hilarity for corporate events, churches, 55+ communities, cruise ships and comedy clubs.
Pre-show questions
What if our venue doesn't have a stage?
A riser of even 6 to 12 inches helps a lot, especially with more than 50 to 75 guests or round tables. If that's not possible, keep the front rows close and make sure every seat has a clear view. Let Mike know ahead of time and he'll help you find the best setup.
What kind of microphone works best?
A handheld microphone is preferred. A quality lapel microphone or a wired handheld on a stand also works. Test it before guests arrive, and have fresh batteries for wireless systems.
Can guests keep eating during the show?
It's best to finish food and beverage service first. Plate clearing, refills and bar traffic during the set compete with the show. Most events schedule the comedy after dinner.
How early will Mike arrive?
Plan on 45 to 60 minutes before guests are seated, for arrival and a short sound check.
Can the show be tailored to our group?
Yes, within the boundaries of clean, kind comedy. Share names, details about your organization or the occasion, and anything to avoid, and Mike will work them in where they fit.
Who should introduce Mike?
Someone the audience knows, like your host or emcee. Keep it short, read the introduction on this page as written, and end with his name so the room knows when to applaud.
Who do we call with questions?
Email booking@mikejamescomedy.com or call 623-229-0902. Questions about your specific venue or setup are always welcome.
Let's book the night
Want Mike for a corporate event, church night, private party, or club date? Send the details. You'll hear back.
