This is a new mic so isn't full all the time. I've been twice, packed the first time, not so the second (it was raining hard). But they have a reputation for great shows, I've done Tuesday at NY Comedy Club, it rocks!! The best part of this mic there is no drink minimum, and they give you extra time if it isn't full, and everyone is really friendly.
This is a nice open mic and I like it. People should come and check it out. What I don't like about it is the raffle line up, you can be the very first person to email them and still end up last performing on stage because they do a raffle to see who's up next.
I'm not a homophobic person either but the host is very funny comic for a gay guy. I can't say the same about the H.I.V guy.
Overall this is a nice open mic, if you stay to the end which is a strong possibility anyway. You might get a free spot the next week. I like this place, they just need to work on a formula for the line up.
To anonymous above, We'd gladly have put you up earlier if that was a concern of yours, as we always try to be fair. Most comics stay the whole show, as the drawing is for a guest spot in the House show at NY Comedy Club Tuesday night, and aren't concerned when they go up. Nevertheless, we hope to have you back! Jeff Lawrence the host who is "funny for a gay guy"
Seriously, anyone who claims to be not homophobic and then says "funny for a gay guy" in the same breath has issues. I can't even speak on the HIV comment! Good looking out Jeff!
This is a great mic. First of all, the World room at Broadway Comedy Club is a really nice space. It reminds me a little of a casino. Anyway, Jeff Lawrence has been steadily working at building this mic and has launched it really well in a short time. The room is supportive and if you're funny you'll get laughs. Nobody is being an asshole about it in the audience. There's not that soul deadening jaded comic feel you feel at some mics at times. Plus Jeff runs a tight ship as a producer which lends the show polish. I recommend it.
I've been to this open mic a few times and I never had a complain about Jeff or Chris. I have not been there in a while but that is my own personal reason. I would love to go back to the Laughing Buddha open mic once i get a chance
So that homophobic hater must be jealous about something. Gay or not comedy is comedy, no matter who the comic is.
Jeff always runs a great room, whether it's his Tues show @ NYCC or this mic. ALWAYS supportive, ALWAYS fun. No one ever feels out of place or unwelcome. You come with bits to practice and leave with new friends. There's no "clique" vibe you feel at most of the other mics. Jeff is fantastic and Chris is one of the warmest, funniest people you'll meet. FIVE stars! BP
I LOVE the raffle lineup. It keeps it fun, and it ensures people stick around. Nothing is worse than going to a mic where people work on their notes during other's stage time, then book it out of there as soon as their own set is done, so if you are one of the last up you are performing to an empty room. You won't see that here. Most every comic stays to the end, which is refreshing. Love this place, love the comics, love the vibe. THIS MIC KICKS ASS!
AMAZING Mic. I love the no notes/phones/texting rule. You can use notes once on stage. There has been a real audience every time I go. Really supportive room, with the nicest comics around. It is booked by Jeff Lawrence, and he doesn't book unsupportive, jaded comics, and often hosts the show himself. He hosts pro shows around town so the energy is always up. Beyond highly recommended. Only concern is the WORD IS OUT!
This open mic is one of the best iv been to so far. Very supportive. I usually attend to this open mic and every time i get good feed back/very good vibes. Supportive. Jeff is a very nice dude also quite funny.
I would recommend this mic to everyone. Jeff is mad cool. I was working on my notes and he came over and told me (politely enough that I wanted to hug him) to please put them away. I looked around and realized that that's what made this mic different and good- he makes sure comics have an audience not just ppl waiting they're turn. Plus, he's a funny dude.
I Finally went to open mic two weeks ago and if anything, this open mic has gotten better. I remember when only a full people went, when I went the other night. I never seen an open mic so packed like the cafe was. Keep up the great work Jeff. You will see me much more often.
I just moved to New York City from Arizona, where I did stand up comedy. I was excited to see what type of Open Mic's Manhattan offered. Some have been good, some just ok The room Jeff lawrence produces at The Broadway Comedy Club is exceptional. If you came in cold off the street, you'd think it was not a room of comics, but a paid audience.
Getting stage time is important to develop or work on new material. Getting that time in a professional atmosphere is equally important and the open mic that Jeff Lawrence produces at the Broadway Comedy Club provides that atmosphere.
I wont say much about this open mic. It's a great open mic but for some reason I get a funny vibe being in the cafe. Jeff is a great host and I have no problem with him, but the open mic in a cafe does not do it for me. I still highly recommend this open mic to others.
This mic comes close to getting a real feedback from a regular audience. It has some beginner comics, who are not jaded, and are fully immerse. Also there’s a great policy of not using notes or blackberry when someone’s performing, which makes the room more attentive. But you can use notes on stage performing. The host also does a great job welcoming everyone and makes them feel at home. One of the best mics in the city.
This mic was great. Jeff was a very supportive and attractive older gay jew. I support his goatee and his bald head. Also, the "no-notes" policy is clutch. I kind of bombed, but it was totally worth it. Great Mic, great racist comments.
Thanks Brian! A wise man once said, there is no such thing as bombing at an open mic! And Lewis Black said you got to bomb 100 tmes before you can consider yourself a comic....so come on back! Jeff
Very nice mic. I haven't been in the city long but this is definitely one of the better mics. I like the no notes and cell phone policy for the audience. It makes people pay attention. If you stay until the end you have the opportunity to get booked on a show. Jeff is a really nice guy. If you can make a room full of comics laugh then you're doing something right.
nice friendly environment. Everyone is listening cause they can't take notes :). I feel like everyone here respects each other's time and is supportive
Cool mic. Tightly run. Laid back vibe. Wish it was free because I'm on a budget, but understandable. Kudos to Jeff on your efforts to make comedy accessible to the new folk to the city.
I like this Mic alot. It's solid and not nearly as depressing as some other mics. The promise of a slot on the tuesday night show keeps people in there seats and the host jeff is a pro so he keeps the atmosphere light. I bring friends to this mic sometimes cause other mics make them wonder how i havent killed myself. Only been there 2x but its solid in my opinion.
Jeff I'm just starting out and have done a couple of open mics at Eastville. How is your mic for someone new. I'm just getting to the point of feeling comfortable with doing 5 mins without notes...although my first 2 mics I didnt realize how long 5 mins actually was and was stuck with nothing for 30 seconds. Just looking for other places to get started at. Please let me know. Thanks.
Oh and the fact that you get people to stay sounds great. I was the 3rd to last to go at Eastville and most people barely stayed for the set after them. I wound up performing in front of 3 other comics and had nothing to work off of.
Hi John, Everyone is welcome at our mic! We have had many comics make their debut, and we've had national headliners stop by. Most comics are in their first couple of years, but regardless, it is always a supportive room, please e mail me and we can put you on our weekly booking list as we book in advance. Thanks!
This was one of the worst mics I have been to... bearing in mind that the bar has been set quite low by Broadway Comedy Club in general. The people were friendly enough... but the mic was run as though the host did not want to be there and it was terribly cliquish with friends of the host getting preferential treatment. There was also the hard sell of hawking bringer shows and bludgeoning the idea into our heads that Broadway Comedy Club is really a family. I know there are other comics who like it and I respect that, but I would not recommend this open mic.
1. Jeff is very supportive of new comics 2. The atmospheres at his Tuesday NY Comedy Club open mic/show and the Thurday open mic at Broadway Comedy Club are professional (starts on time, comics respect each other) 3. This place does have a clique of comics that enjoy coming here, but unlike some other mics I've been too, they are actually friendly comics without a douche bag attitude 4. Jeff is funny and the comics that help him run his mics an shows are funny and fair 5. His bringer shows are well worth getting on for new comics, and can be advantagous for comics with more experience
I just cannot say enough good things about Jeff, his open mics and his shows.
I like this open mic, comprised of a very supportive group of comics. Jeff does a great job of both keeping it both positive and quite fun. I like the lottery drawing as far as sequence of getting on stage, becasue it's a good change of pace of the usual first come first serve. Also, I notice that most of the comics stay until the end, which is better for everyone. And, last Chris also does a great job in help Jeff in running this.
This mic is great. Jeff is funny because he's poor and acts jewy. This past Thursday there were real, live people there, not just angry comics. Very fun.
This mic is great. Jeff is a great host, the comedians are funny and supportive and it's not unheard of to have actual spectators there.
One thing that may turn off alot of comedians is the lottery for spots. You can show up first and go last or show up midway through and go on before someone that was there earlier. It's not a serious problem as proper etiquette dictates that you stay until the end anyway, but sometimes sitting there through three hours and up of comedians can be too much, especially when you consider the large amount of people this mic draws.
Still, it's never been enough to stop me from attending this mic and enjoying myself thoroughly. I've never felt like an outsider, just a new guy, and that's a big positive. That clique feeling is the worst.
Overall, a fantastic place to start out and sharpen your craft.
I attended last night and had a really good time, very supportive group and the show hosts were great, and organized. I'd recommend this show. Make sure you get on the email list so you can gaurantee a spot!
In regards to some prior comments: Being the first to arrive and last to go up... while it is a lottery and that is possible, we are more than happy to get you up sooner next time if it's a problem. Time wise, our mic is not more than two hours, as we start at 6PM, and have to be out of the room at 8PM. There might be an occasion where we run a few minutes late, but it has never been, nor will it be anything close to three hours. Although we appreciate the audience, you may leave after your spot. We are now giving away 2 guest spots by lottery for our house shows at NY Comedy Club at the end of the show. We are always trying to find ways to build and keep an audience and your suggestions, as comics, are vital to us. We do book in advance, you can e mail booking@laughingbuddhacomedy.com to be on our list. We are very grateful to everyone that has made this mic such a success, and we hope you keep coming back!
I have been to many mics in the city, and I can safely say this is one of the best. At the beginning of each show, the host asks the audience not to text, take notes, or talk on the phone, which means when you are on stage, everybody is listening to you. The mic is as professional as a mic can be.
If you have not been there, try it and see for yourself. It is worth 5 bucks.
So I did my first Laughing Buddha open mic this Thurs Aug 11th. As regards to the lottery system...good job! This time it worked for me, I was 2nd on stage then got to sit back and enjoy the whole show. Maybe next time I may be next to last but at least its fair. Someone on here bitched about Jeff letting his friends go on in specific spots...well Jeff runs the mic and if he has comedy students or staff then he has the right to do that. I absolutely thought it was fair. Having the raffle at the end was great! It was a nice way of keeping people there and watching the show. My first open mic at another club had me performing in front of 3 people. Here I was up in front of no less than 30-40 and had a good supportive crowd...why you ask...because you are told to put your notes away, turn your cell phones off and watch the show. Perfect idea. I got really good feedback from a lot of people and really appreciate it. I will absolutely be back and hopefully soon.
By the way, if anyone reads this and remembers me from Aug 11th ( I went on 2nd and was the fat guy wearing the Mr. Icee Cool shirt) please give me some feedback. Also would like to connect with other comics (facebook, twitter, etc)...networking is always good.
Ohhhhh and any new comic there got a really good lesson that heckling is NOT part of the show!
This mic sucks. And Jeff deletes all the negative comments here because he knows it sucks. A lot of people cannot stand the raffle line up. I do not recommend this mic at all.
A Host should not have favoritism and by that I mean people who would kiss his ass and keep giving him money he does not deserve.
I have no power to delete comments on this board. The above author's previous post was deleted by Slava because the comments were full of hate, and do not pertain to this board. The above comic did not even perform in our show!
I've been to this mic a handful of times now and it's starting to become one my of favorites. It's supportive, fair, and just a good room to work your stuff out. Jeff seems to be a good dude who runs a good and reasonable mic and that's why I'll keep coming back.
I've done this mic before and it wasn't bad. It was pretty much like a lot of other open mics in the city. You pay your money, you get up, do your stuff, sit your ass down, go home, listen to your recording, keep writing... It's just a place to rehearse. Don't go to an open mic to make people laugh. You'll probably be very disappointed. If you get laughs... great... if not... move on, again, it's just a rehearsal. Broadway Comedy Club has a good stage and good mic. So try it, don't try it... your choice.
I've been running around NYC doing open mics for several months now, and this is by far the best one I've been to. It has grown in popularity immensely (and rightly so) and it is the only open mic that even comes close to replicating a house show. The crowd is attentive and supportive and Jeff is one of the most honest and hard-working guys I've met in this insane business. He keeps the show moving, and has been extremely supportive of me and many others who are just starting out.
Whether you are a seasoned vet trying out new material or a new comic, Laughing Buddha Mic is a great place for all. Jeff is a great host and he takes the time out to speak with you if you have questions about the craft. Chris makes sure the event is running smoothly each and every night its put on. The crowd is there for support while you try new material; everyone is friendly and you can always make new friends for future collaborations. Plus you get a bad ass shirt or a guest spot at their show. Recommend Laughing Buddha Mic to all. Keep On Laughing!
To the guy who couldnt even post his name up I will say this...my god Jeff must be the first person ever to take care of his friends! What nerve huh. If people didnt take care of their friends Rob Schneider would never have gotten movie work! So maybe he takes care of some people who take care of him. Who cares! My first open mic with Jeff I went up 2nd...maybe next time I will be in the middle or up last. Really nit picky crap. Also I agree, it was a huge benefit that the room felt more like a real show than a open mic. Like I said before, my very first mic was at Eastville. By the time I got up there was 3 people left. During the whole mic people were coming in and out, working on their own set and going over notes and it was definetly not like that at this Mic. I will be back as soon as I have time...damn kids and job! I also plan on doing one of the showcase shows, not necessarily because I think I'm totally ready but I would love to get professional feedback. I dont have time to take any classes but I am going to try and sit in on some workshops. Any little bit helps.
Jeff, is there anyway to set up something to let people network more. Maybe a list of peoples twitters/facebook/youtube channel. Social networking is the best marketing tool for all. Just a thought.
I love this mic, i love Laughing Buddah, and Jeff is an amazing supportive friend. if you pick any mic/show to be a part of i highly recomend this one. it's always great and the comics are the nicest people ever. this is a great mic to try out new stuff. it's not like the mics where no one is paying attention and the audiance is like 4 people. if you want to try out your material in a great enviroment, do this mic. get to know jeff and get on his shows it's always amazing.
My first time to this open mic, and I was impressed. Everyone was listening to everyone else, lots of talent in the room, host made everyone feel welcome. Planning to return! Thanks for a great experience!
This was a fantastic Mic. Very supportive atmosphere and I highly recommend it to anyone who is just starting out (it was only my 2nd show ever). I look forward to coming to Broadway every Thursday.
I was also a first-timer Thursday night, and I had a great time! (Nice job, Dave, btw!) Thanks to Jeff and Chris for being fun hosts and setting up a fun vibe. Very supportive room. Look forward to my next trip. I'd definitely recommend this mic!
Just did last Thursdays open mic (2nd time) and again I absolutely love this mic. The closest thing I've seen to doing a real show at a open mic and very supportive crowd. I'm also trying to find the time to do more including Jeff's classes and his showcases...even though I dont feel ready yet the feedback from a agent would be really cool. In regards to finding the time, well as my opening joke referenced I have a full time job (nights) and a kid and two stepkids, so time is a problem but I promise you Jeff to try and make one soon.
Awesome open mic! And how often does the word awesome and open mic appear in one sentence? So refreshing to be at a mic that isn't a hipster circle jerk where they sit and stare and leave after their sets! Jeff is a great host and really funny comic. Everyone feels welcome even though there's regulars so there's no cliquey BS. All of the comics did tight material so I wouldn't recommend coming here to work out material off of a notepad. This is a mic where you should bring your A game.
I love going to this mic...Jeff is a great host and there is always a supportive crowd. While most mics are hot and cold, I have found Thursdays at Broadway are consistently good. This is definitely a mic to check out.
Hands down the most supportive group. Everyone is welcome to get up and be funny, but we also sit back and give feedback. Jeff keeps the troops tight and I like the cut of that mans jib.
I've only done a couple of open mics and just hit this one for the first time tonight, but so far this is easily the best. A good encouraging atmosphere, everybody's attentive...god, I wish they could all be like this.
In regard to the post above, all mics, no matter how great, are for working and re-working material. I'd never suggest to anyone that they don't work off notes at a mic, that's what they are there for. Working off notes in a show is a different thing and should never EVER be done (and this includes writing on your hand, having them "hidden" on the stool before you go up... hint: it makes you look like a hack). No one "brings their a-game" to a mic. The whole POINT of a mic is to try out new material, and that is usually done from a notepad. That being said, this is truly a great mic. The fact that Jeff and Chris pull it off to have a "show" vibe says everything about them and the mic itself. My only complaint is I wish it was on later because of my work schedule. I miss it almost every week. I know there's nothing they can do about their time-slot though. If you're looking for a great mic, this is by far and away the one you're looking for.
This is a new mic so isn't full all the time. I've been twice, packed the first time, not so the second (it was raining hard). But they have a reputation for great shows, I've done Tuesday at NY Comedy Club, it rocks!! The best part of this mic there is no drink minimum, and they give you extra time if it isn't full, and everyone is really friendly.
ReplyDeleteThis is a nice open mic and I like it. People should come and check it out. What I don't like about it is the raffle line up, you can be the very first person to email them and still end up last performing on stage because they do a raffle to see who's up next.
ReplyDeleteI'm not a homophobic person either but the host is very funny comic for a gay guy. I can't say the same about the H.I.V guy.
Overall this is a nice open mic, if you stay to the end which is a strong possibility anyway. You might get a free spot the next week. I like this place, they just need to work on a formula for the line up.
To anonymous above,
ReplyDeleteWe'd gladly have put you up earlier if that was a concern of yours, as we always try to be fair. Most comics stay the whole show, as the drawing is for a guest spot in the House show at NY Comedy Club Tuesday night, and aren't concerned when they go up. Nevertheless, we hope to have you back!
Jeff Lawrence
the host who is "funny for a gay guy"
Seriously, anyone who claims to be not homophobic and then says "funny for a gay guy" in the same breath has issues. I can't even speak on the HIV comment! Good looking out Jeff!
ReplyDeleteThis is a great mic. First of all, the World room at Broadway Comedy Club is a really nice space. It reminds me a little of a casino. Anyway, Jeff Lawrence has been steadily working at building this mic and has launched it really well in a short time. The room is supportive and if you're funny you'll get laughs. Nobody is being an asshole about it in the audience. There's not that soul deadening jaded comic feel you feel at some mics at times. Plus Jeff runs a tight ship as a producer which lends the show polish. I recommend it.
ReplyDeleteDanny Palmer
I've been to this open mic a few times and I never had a complain about Jeff or Chris. I have not been there in a while but that is my own personal reason. I would love to go back to the Laughing Buddha open mic once i get a chance
ReplyDeleteSo that homophobic hater must be jealous about something. Gay or not comedy is comedy, no matter who the comic is.
What's up Jeff. I'll be there one day again.
Jeff always runs a great room, whether it's his Tues show @ NYCC or this mic. ALWAYS supportive, ALWAYS fun. No one ever feels out of place or unwelcome. You come with bits to practice and leave with new friends. There's no "clique" vibe you feel at most of the other mics. Jeff is fantastic and Chris is one of the warmest, funniest people you'll meet. FIVE stars!
ReplyDeleteBP
I LOVE the raffle lineup. It keeps it fun, and it ensures people stick around. Nothing is worse than going to a mic where people work on their notes during other's stage time, then book it out of there as soon as their own set is done, so if you are one of the last up you are performing to an empty room. You won't see that here. Most every comic stays to the end, which is refreshing. Love this place, love the comics, love the vibe. THIS MIC KICKS ASS!
ReplyDeleteAMAZING Mic. I love the no notes/phones/texting rule. You can use notes once on stage. There has been a real audience every time I go. Really supportive room, with the nicest comics around. It is booked by Jeff Lawrence, and he doesn't book unsupportive, jaded comics, and often hosts the show himself. He hosts pro shows around town so the energy is always up. Beyond highly recommended. Only concern is the WORD IS OUT!
ReplyDeleteThis mic rocks!
ReplyDeleteGREAT MIC ! ! !
ReplyDeleteThis open mic is one of the best iv been to so far. Very supportive. I usually attend to this open mic and every time i get good feed back/very good vibes. Supportive. Jeff is a very nice dude also quite funny.
ReplyDeleteI would recommend this mic to everyone. Jeff is mad cool. I was working on my notes and he came over and told me (politely enough that I wanted to hug him) to please put them away. I looked around and realized that that's what made this mic different and good- he makes sure comics have an audience not just ppl waiting they're turn. Plus, he's a funny dude.
ReplyDeleteI Finally went to open mic two weeks ago and if anything, this open mic has gotten better. I remember when only a full people went, when I went the other night. I never seen an open mic so packed like the cafe was. Keep up the great work Jeff. You will see me much more often.
ReplyDeleteI just moved to New York City from Arizona, where I did stand up comedy. I was excited to see what type of Open Mic's Manhattan offered. Some have been good, some just ok The room Jeff lawrence produces at The Broadway Comedy Club is exceptional. If you came in cold off the street, you'd think it was not a room of comics, but a paid audience.
ReplyDeleteGetting stage time is important to develop or work on new material. Getting that time in a professional atmosphere is equally important and the open mic that Jeff Lawrence produces at the Broadway Comedy Club provides that atmosphere.
HIGHLY recommended!
Chris Kavanagh
I wont say much about this open mic. It's a great open mic but for some reason I get a funny vibe being in the cafe. Jeff is a great host and I have no problem with him, but the open mic in a cafe does not do it for me. I still highly recommend this open mic to others.
ReplyDeleteThis mic comes close to getting a real feedback from a regular audience. It has some beginner comics, who are not jaded, and are fully immerse. Also there’s a great policy of not using notes or blackberry when someone’s performing, which makes the room more attentive. But you can use notes on stage performing. The host also does a great job welcoming everyone and makes them feel at home. One of the best mics in the city.
ReplyDeleteThis mic was great. Jeff was a very supportive and attractive older gay jew. I support his goatee and his bald head. Also, the "no-notes" policy is clutch. I kind of bombed, but it was totally worth it. Great Mic, great racist comments.
ReplyDeleteThanks Brian! A wise man once said, there is no such thing as bombing at an open mic! And Lewis Black said you got to bomb 100 tmes before you can consider yourself a comic....so come on back! Jeff
ReplyDeleteVery nice mic. I haven't been in the city long but this is definitely one of the better mics. I like the no notes and cell phone policy for the audience. It makes people pay attention. If you stay until the end you have the opportunity to get booked on a show. Jeff is a really nice guy. If you can make a room full of comics laugh then you're doing something right.
ReplyDeleteHad a great time at this Mic. Very supportive crowd of comics. My girlfriend came and it was free for non comics!
ReplyDeleteI had a great time. Great bunch of people. I'm definitely coming back.
ReplyDeletenice friendly environment. Everyone is listening cause they can't take notes :). I feel like everyone here respects each other's time and is supportive
ReplyDeleteCool mic. Tightly run. Laid back vibe. Wish it was free because I'm on a budget, but understandable. Kudos to Jeff on your efforts to make comedy accessible to the new folk to the city.
ReplyDeleteI like this Mic alot. It's solid and not nearly as depressing as some other mics. The promise of a slot on the tuesday night show keeps people in there seats and the host jeff is a pro so he keeps the atmosphere light. I bring friends to this mic sometimes cause other mics make them wonder how i havent killed myself. Only been there 2x but its solid in my opinion.
ReplyDeleteBest mic at Broadway Comedy Club. Great audience... good comics... good hosts. Supportive room.
ReplyDeleteJeff I'm just starting out and have done a couple of open mics at Eastville. How is your mic for someone new. I'm just getting to the point of feeling comfortable with doing 5 mins without notes...although my first 2 mics I didnt realize how long 5 mins actually was and was stuck with nothing for 30 seconds. Just looking for other places to get started at. Please let me know. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteOh and the fact that you get people to stay sounds great. I was the 3rd to last to go at Eastville and most people barely stayed for the set after them. I wound up performing in front of 3 other comics and had nothing to work off of.
ReplyDeleteHi John, Everyone is welcome at our mic! We have had many comics make their debut, and we've had national headliners stop by. Most comics are in their first couple of years, but regardless, it is always a supportive room, please e mail me and we can put you on our weekly booking list as we book in advance. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThis was one of the worst mics I have been to... bearing in mind that the bar has been set quite low by Broadway Comedy Club in general. The people were friendly enough... but the mic was run as though the host did not want to be there and it was terribly cliquish with friends of the host getting preferential treatment. There was also the hard sell of hawking bringer shows and bludgeoning the idea into our heads that Broadway Comedy Club is really a family. I know there are other comics who like it and I respect that, but I would not recommend this open mic.
ReplyDeleteAs a new comic, I heart this mic. Here's why:
ReplyDelete1. Jeff is very supportive of new comics
2. The atmospheres at his Tuesday NY Comedy Club open mic/show and the Thurday open mic at Broadway Comedy Club are professional (starts on time, comics respect each other)
3. This place does have a clique of comics that enjoy coming here, but unlike some other mics I've been too, they are actually friendly comics without a douche bag attitude
4. Jeff is funny and the comics that help him run his mics an shows are funny and fair
5. His bringer shows are well worth getting on for new comics, and can be advantagous for comics with more experience
I just cannot say enough good things about Jeff, his open mics and his shows.
did stand up for the first time at this and couldnt have felt better about it. good sized group of people willing to laugh. try it out.
ReplyDeleteI like this open mic, comprised of a very supportive group of comics. Jeff does a great job of both keeping it both positive and quite fun. I like the lottery drawing as far as sequence of getting on stage, becasue it's a good change of pace of the usual first come first serve. Also, I notice that most of the comics stay until the end, which is better for everyone. And, last Chris also does a great job in help Jeff in running this.
ReplyDeleteWent to the open mic on thurs it was a great time, great mic, i did great and even won a guest spot at another club, Jeff runs a great mic
ReplyDeleteThis mic is great. Jeff is funny because he's poor and acts jewy. This past Thursday there were real, live people there, not just angry comics. Very fun.
ReplyDeleteThis mic is great. Jeff is a great host, the comedians are funny and supportive and it's not unheard of to have actual spectators there.
ReplyDeleteOne thing that may turn off alot of comedians is the lottery for spots. You can show up first and go last or show up midway through and go on before someone that was there earlier. It's not a serious problem as proper etiquette dictates that you stay until the end anyway, but sometimes sitting there through three hours and up of comedians can be too much, especially when you consider the large amount of people this mic draws.
Still, it's never been enough to stop me from attending this mic and enjoying myself thoroughly. I've never felt like an outsider, just a new guy, and that's a big positive. That clique feeling is the worst.
Overall, a fantastic place to start out and sharpen your craft.
I attended last night and had a really good time, very supportive group and the show hosts were great, and organized. I'd recommend this show. Make sure you get on the email list so you can gaurantee a spot!
ReplyDeleteIn regards to some prior comments: Being the first to arrive and last to go up... while it is a lottery and that is possible, we are more than happy to get you up sooner next time if it's a problem. Time wise, our mic is not more than two hours, as we start at 6PM, and have to be out of the room at 8PM. There might be an occasion where we run a few minutes late, but it has never been, nor will it be anything close to three hours. Although we appreciate the audience, you may leave after your spot. We are now giving away 2 guest spots by lottery for our house shows at NY Comedy Club at the end of the show. We are always trying to find ways to build and keep an audience and your suggestions, as comics, are vital to us.
ReplyDeleteWe do book in advance, you can e mail booking@laughingbuddhacomedy.com to be on our list.
We are very grateful to everyone that has made this mic such a success, and we hope you keep coming back!
I have been to many mics in the city, and I can safely say this is one of the best. At the beginning of each show, the host asks the audience not to text, take notes, or talk on the phone, which means when you are on stage, everybody is listening to you. The mic is as professional as a mic can be.
ReplyDeleteIf you have not been there, try it and see for yourself. It is worth 5 bucks.
So I did my first Laughing Buddha open mic this Thurs Aug 11th. As regards to the lottery system...good job! This time it worked for me, I was 2nd on stage then got to sit back and enjoy the whole show. Maybe next time I may be next to last but at least its fair. Someone on here bitched about Jeff letting his friends go on in specific spots...well Jeff runs the mic and if he has comedy students or staff then he has the right to do that. I absolutely thought it was fair. Having the raffle at the end was great! It was a nice way of keeping people there and watching the show. My first open mic at another club had me performing in front of 3 people. Here I was up in front of no less than 30-40 and had a good supportive crowd...why you ask...because you are told to put your notes away, turn your cell phones off and watch the show. Perfect idea. I got really good feedback from a lot of people and really appreciate it. I will absolutely be back and hopefully soon.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, if anyone reads this and remembers me from Aug 11th ( I went on 2nd and was the fat guy wearing the Mr. Icee Cool shirt) please give me some feedback. Also would like to connect with other comics (facebook, twitter, etc)...networking is always good.
ReplyDeleteOhhhhh and any new comic there got a really good lesson that heckling is NOT part of the show!
Went last week. Funny comics with good attitudes. Weird.
ReplyDeleteGreat mic! Very supportive and friendly! Perfect for a first -timer like me! Thanks, Jeff, for a great experience!
ReplyDeleteDan
This mic sucks. And Jeff deletes all the negative comments here because he knows it sucks. A lot of people cannot stand the raffle line up. I do not recommend this mic at all.
ReplyDeleteA Host should not have favoritism and by that I mean people who would kiss his ass and keep giving him money he does not deserve.
I have no power to delete comments on this board. The above author's previous post was deleted by Slava because the comments were full of hate, and do not pertain to this board. The above comic did not even perform in our show!
ReplyDeleteI've been to this mic a handful of times now and it's starting to become one my of favorites. It's supportive, fair, and just a good room to work your stuff out. Jeff seems to be a good dude who runs a good and reasonable mic and that's why I'll keep coming back.
ReplyDeleteI've done this mic before and it wasn't bad. It was pretty much like a lot of other open mics in the city. You pay your money, you get up, do your stuff, sit your ass down, go home, listen to your recording, keep writing... It's just a place to rehearse. Don't go to an open mic to make people laugh. You'll probably be very disappointed. If you get laughs... great... if not... move on, again, it's just a rehearsal. Broadway Comedy Club has a good stage and good mic. So try it, don't try it... your choice.
ReplyDeleteI've been running around NYC doing open mics for several months now, and this is by far the best one I've been to. It has grown in popularity immensely (and rightly so) and it is the only open mic that even comes close to replicating a house show. The crowd is attentive and supportive and Jeff is one of the most honest and hard-working guys I've met in this insane business. He keeps the show moving, and has been extremely supportive of me and many others who are just starting out.
ReplyDeleteWhether you are a seasoned vet trying out new material or a new comic, Laughing Buddha Mic is a great place for all. Jeff is a great host and he takes the time out to speak with you if you have questions about the craft. Chris makes sure the event is running smoothly each and every night its put on. The crowd is there for support while you try new material; everyone is friendly and you can always make new friends for future collaborations.
ReplyDeletePlus you get a bad ass shirt or a guest spot at their show. Recommend Laughing Buddha Mic to all. Keep On Laughing!
To the guy who couldnt even post his name up I will say this...my god Jeff must be the first person ever to take care of his friends! What nerve huh. If people didnt take care of their friends Rob Schneider would never have gotten movie work! So maybe he takes care of some people who take care of him. Who cares! My first open mic with Jeff I went up 2nd...maybe next time I will be in the middle or up last. Really nit picky crap. Also I agree, it was a huge benefit that the room felt more like a real show than a open mic. Like I said before, my very first mic was at Eastville. By the time I got up there was 3 people left. During the whole mic people were coming in and out, working on their own set and going over notes and it was definetly not like that at this Mic. I will be back as soon as I have time...damn kids and job! I also plan on doing one of the showcase shows, not necessarily because I think I'm totally ready but I would love to get professional feedback. I dont have time to take any classes but I am going to try and sit in on some workshops. Any little bit helps.
ReplyDeleteJeff, is there anyway to set up something to let people network more. Maybe a list of peoples twitters/facebook/youtube channel. Social networking is the best marketing tool for all. Just a thought.
I love this mic, i love Laughing Buddah, and Jeff is an amazing supportive friend. if you pick any mic/show to be a part of i highly recomend this one. it's always great and the comics are the nicest people ever. this is a great mic to try out new stuff. it's not like the mics where no one is paying attention and the audiance is like 4 people. if you want to try out your material in a great enviroment, do this mic. get to know jeff and get on his shows it's always amazing.
ReplyDeleteIs there a cover charge for someone walking in off the street not to get up on stage, but to watch the open mic take place?
ReplyDeleteScratch the above. I can read now. I see it's free for guests.
ReplyDeleteMy first time to this open mic, and I was impressed. Everyone was listening to everyone else, lots of talent in the room, host made everyone feel welcome. Planning to return! Thanks for a great experience!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for attending - we'd love to see you again! It was lots of fun!!!
ReplyDeleteAnd thank you to all who come and support, it is truly appreciated!!
This was a fantastic Mic. Very supportive atmosphere and I highly recommend it to anyone who is just starting out (it was only my 2nd show ever). I look forward to coming to Broadway every Thursday.
ReplyDeleteChris Higgins
how many spots are there on thursdays? just trying to figure out how long the show will be. thanks
ReplyDeletedid my first ever open mic last night and had a great experience.
ReplyDeleteAll the good things mentioned by previous reviews are true:
Jeff and Chris were good hosts and kept the show running smoothly
Diverse and supportive crowd and most stayed until the end.
Two free guest spots by lottery at the end
Will definitely return as often as I can
Dave Chen
I was also a first-timer Thursday night, and I had a great time! (Nice job, Dave, btw!) Thanks to Jeff and Chris for being fun hosts and setting up a fun vibe. Very supportive room. Look forward to my next trip. I'd definitely recommend this mic!
ReplyDeleteJust did last Thursdays open mic (2nd time) and again I absolutely love this mic. The closest thing I've seen to doing a real show at a open mic and very supportive crowd. I'm also trying to find the time to do more including Jeff's classes and his showcases...even though I dont feel ready yet the feedback from a agent would be really cool. In regards to finding the time, well as my opening joke referenced I have a full time job (nights) and a kid and two stepkids, so time is a problem but I promise you Jeff to try and make one soon.
ReplyDeleteGreat open mic...very supportive and tightly run. Everyone feels welcome. I would recommend this mic to anyone.
ReplyDeleteAwesome open mic! And how often does the word awesome and open mic appear in one sentence? So refreshing to be at a mic that isn't a hipster circle jerk where they sit and stare and leave after their sets! Jeff is a great host and really funny comic. Everyone feels welcome even though there's regulars so there's no cliquey BS. All of the comics did tight material so I wouldn't recommend coming here to work out material off of a notepad. This is a mic where you should bring your A game.
ReplyDeleteI love going to this mic...Jeff is a great host and there is always a supportive crowd. While most mics are hot and cold, I have found Thursdays at Broadway are consistently good. This is definitely a mic to check out.
ReplyDeleteHands down the most supportive group. Everyone is welcome to get up and be funny, but we also sit back and give feedback. Jeff keeps the troops tight and I like the cut of that mans jib.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great mic. Comics supportive of each other and the quality was high all around. I'll go back for sure. Would be great if the bar was open :)
ReplyDeleteI've only done a couple of open mics and just hit this one for the first time tonight, but so far this is easily the best. A good encouraging atmosphere, everybody's attentive...god, I wish they could all be like this.
ReplyDeleteMost likely the best mic around
ReplyDeleteVery supportive mic. Jeff and Chris run a tight ship. Check it out.
ReplyDeleteWent here this past thursday to check it out. Really supportive mic. Great for beginners to start working out and be comfortable.
ReplyDeletegreat mic. very supportive, good place to learn how to be comfortable in front of people. jeff and chris are fantastic.
ReplyDeleteIn regard to the post above, all mics, no matter how great, are for working and re-working material. I'd never suggest to anyone that they don't work off notes at a mic, that's what they are there for. Working off notes in a show is a different thing and should never EVER be done (and this includes writing on your hand, having them "hidden" on the stool before you go up... hint: it makes you look like a hack). No one "brings their a-game" to a mic. The whole POINT of a mic is to try out new material, and that is usually done from a notepad.
ReplyDeleteThat being said, this is truly a great mic. The fact that Jeff and Chris pull it off to have a "show" vibe says everything about them and the mic itself. My only complaint is I wish it was on later because of my work schedule. I miss it almost every week. I know there's nothing they can do about their time-slot though.
If you're looking for a great mic, this is by far and away the one you're looking for.