Stand-Up Comedy
Stand-up comedy is a form of comedy where a performer, known as a comedian, delivers a humorous monologue directly to an audience. The audience plays an integral part in the show.
What to Expect at Carlitos
Upon entry, you will be welcomed by Jim and Carlitos, who will direct you to your seats.
Grab a drink and a snack at the bar and enjoy the show.
A show generally consists of a host, a few opening acts and a headliner act.
More often than not, there will be a break in between 2 halves, where you can grab another drink or take a break yourself.
After the show, you are welcome to stick around, the bar is open.
The Rules
1) NO HECKLING ! Don't speak unless spoken to.
2) NO RECORDING ! Comedians are very protective of their material.
3) DO HAVE FUN ! Don't take yourself too seriously. The comedians won't.
The Open Mic
A stand-up open mic is the bread and butter of comedy because it’s where the raw, unfiltered craft takes shape. Comedians, both seasoned and new, test out material in front of a live audience, gauging reactions and refining their jokes. It's the ultimate proving ground—a place to take risks, bomb spectacularly, and occasionally find comedic gold. Without the open mic, the journey from an idea to a polished routine simply wouldn't exist. It's where every joke starts, evolves, and gets perfected, making it the foundation of the stand-up world.
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Price of admission: FREE
The Showcase
A stand-up open mic is the bread and butter of comedy because it’s where the raw, unfiltered craft takes shape. Comedians, both seasoned and new, test out material in front of a live audience, gauging reactions and refining their jokes. It's the ultimate proving ground—a place to take risks, bomb spectacularly, and occasionally find comedic gold. Without the open mic, the journey from an idea to a polished routine simply wouldn't exist. It's where every joke starts, evolves, and gets perfected, making it the foundation of the stand-up world.
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Price of admission: 10-25 Euros
The Solo
A solo comedy show is the pinnacle of a comedian's craft—an unfiltered, uninterrupted hour (or more) where the spotlight is all theirs. It's a unique opportunity to dive deep into a comedian’s world, offering a cohesive narrative or a series of finely tuned bits that showcase their voice and perspective. Unlike open mics or showcases, the solo show allows for full creative control, where a performer can take risks, explore themes, and engage the audience on a personal level. It’s the ultimate expression of a comedian’s journey, reflecting both their growth and their ability to captivate an audience from start to finish.
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Price of admission: 15-45 Euros
The Work-In-Progress (WIP)
A work-in-progress comedy show is where the creative process unfolds in real time. It’s a space for comedians to test new material, refine ideas, and experiment with fresh directions, all while engaging the audience in the evolution of their set. Unlike a polished solo show, the work-in-progress is raw, unpredictable, and exciting, allowing for a glimpse into the comedian’s mind as they shape their act. It's an essential part of the comedic journey, where trial and error lead to breakthroughs, and where both performer and audience collaborate in the discovery of what works—and what doesn’t.
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Price of admission: FREE
How Shows Are Priced €€€
Comedy show pricing is influenced by a range of factors, blending both tangible and intangible elements. Here's a breakdown of key considerations:
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Experience of the Comedian: Comedians with more years of stage experience generally command higher fees. A well-seasoned comic, even without a massive following, often has a well-honed act and stage presence that guarantees consistent performances. Their years in the industry can make them more valuable, especially for audiences looking for polished, reliable entertainment.
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Number of Followers: In today’s digital age, a comedian’s social media following can heavily impact their price. Even a relatively new comedian can charge higher fees if they bring a large online audience, thanks to platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Their ability to draw in fans based on online popularity can sometimes outweigh years of experience, especially for events focused on ticket sales and reach.
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Location and Travel: If a comedian is from out of town or requires special accommodations, these logistical costs can drive up the overall fee. Flying in a comedian from a different region or country adds to the expense and is a crucial factor for shows looking to feature specific acts that might not be locally available.
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Individual Negotiations: Comedy pricing isn’t always standardized—individual negotiations play a significant role. Factors such as the size of the venue, the show’s budget, or even the comedian's personal preferences can impact the final fee. Some comedians may accept a lower fee for the opportunity to work with a particular venue or promoter, while others may ask for more based on the event's scale or prestige.
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Market Demand: Finally, the overall demand for a comedian at any given time can influence their price. A comedian who’s hot on the scene, recently viral, or currently on tour will likely see a rise in fees, while those with less buzz may price themselves more modestly to remain competitive. Similarly, local markets can vary—what a comedian charges in one city might differ greatly from another, depending on the audience's appetite for live comedy.
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Balancing these factors leads to a range of prices, from affordable openers to high-priced headliners, with each show uniquely tailored to the circumstances.
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