When Orlando comedians want to test out new material or get some practice on the stage, they sign up for the Other Bar’s Open Mic Comedy Night.
Every Monday night from 9:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m, for the past eight years, new and veteran comedians have graced the corner stage. Ken Miller, affectionately known as the Godfather of Orlando comedy, is the coordinator and also performs.
Miller has watched hundreds of comedians perform during the weekly event. He said some people try it once and never return and some come for years.
One of the most notable comedians who performed at The Other Bar is Preacher Lawson from Lake County. Lawson finished in the Top 10 on America’s Got Talent summer 2017 season and took 5th place in this year’s America’s Got Talent Champions series. Miller said Lawson has always been funny but he polished his act with lots of practice at open mic events.
Miller said Orlando’s comedy scene is one of the best in the nation. Many comedians from Orlando have ended up touring or pursuing the industry full time.
Feeling funny? No experience is needed to give it a shot. Pack your courage and simply show up at 8:30 p.m. on the day of event and sign up. The first 20 comedians are guaranteed a slot. Each comedian is given 3 to 5 minutes on stage. If no one laughs, the bar is only 10 feet away.
“We just want you to come out and support live comedy locally,” Miller said.