LAUGHING BUDDHA COMEDY FESTIVAL REGISTRATION
opens 2025
opens 2025
WINNERS OF THE
2024 FESTIVAL
1ST PLACE
ERIC WALSH
$2000
plus
Year’s worth of spots
2nd PLACE
CHRIS TOS
$300
plus
3 Guest Spots
3rd PLACE
BRENDAN SMITH
$200
plus
2 Guest Spots
4TH PLACE
TED BARTON
1 Guest Spot
plus
Pat on the back
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS
FROM LAUGHING BUDDHA COMEDY
festival SUBMISSION TIPS
one
Make sure you read the submission guidelines. Each festival or contest is different. If they ask for a link, don't send your social media page or anything other than a link. They should be able to click on this link and begin watching your video. If a passcode is required make sure you supply it ahead of time.
two
Start your set when you take the stage, not with a long host intro. Time is valuable as festivals often receive hundreds of submissions or more. If they ask for 5 minutes submit 5 minutes. Do not submit a montage or greatest hits unless submissions allow that, most don't.
three
Your tape can be made anywhere, it does not have to be at a top club with the best videographer. As long as the video isn't shaky and has clear audio you’re good. Any venue even a bar is fine.
four
Don’t take it personally. I was in several festivals from March Madness to a $1000 Music Comedy festival over the years. I've been eliminated when I destroyed and had the best audience response. I've finished 2nd out of 100 with a terrible set. Go figure.
five
Don't worry about submitting a tape where you absolutely crush. Industry people can tell a good joke or where you are in comedy in the first 15 seconds you take the stage; they are not fooled by someone performing comedy for three months and killing at a bringer show.
six
Do not contact the event host to see if you've been accepted. Again, most festivals are dealing with an enormous amount of submissions and will clearly state how and when you will be notified if you’re accepted.
seven
Promote on social media. Many contests or festivals are going to consider audience reaction so having people in your corner is always advantageous. At the least make an effort to promote your appearance as you were probably selected over hundreds of other participants.
eight
Don’t ask for special favors. If you’re booked for a Tuesday 8PM show don’t ask the festival organizers to switch because you have another spot. A lot goes into lineups, promotion judges sheets, etc. Show up on time and be supportive.
nine
Be yourself. Don't worry about being clean if you're not. There is no wrong choice of material, just deliver your funniest, your aim is to kill! Have fun! Festivals are usually an exciting week and great for networking and making friends.
ten
Don't take it too seriously,
enjoy the ride!