The future of comedians looks gloomy and gloomier every day no one knows what’s in store or what the future holds for South Africans and the rest of the comedians from the African continent. Given the current state of affairs with covid-19, no one can host comedy events or even if they organise an event, as an event organiser you are not sure who will show up at your event. As comedy fans are scared while some are still sceptical to attend any shows at the moment.
The current state of affairs presents a golden opportunity for comedians and the rest of the creative industry at large to innovate and make use of technology to chart a new pathway to make a living. It’s fair to say, is hard for the majority of comedians to make a living and ends meet let alone take care of their families as money is tight at the moment.
Alternative Sources of Income
Comedian has to find alternative ways to make money as events are not viable options and are out of the picture at the moment. Unless something dramatic can happen to wipe out the virus from the universe, which we doubt could happen anytime soon.
I believe that South Africans comics and comedians from the rest of the African continent can still earn a better living provided they take advantage of the current tools and latest technology.
Innovation and Creativity
Comics needs to innovate within their chosen field and take advantage of the current captive audience. If one or two can come up with a slick idea something create can happen because the market is ripe and the audience is ready for it and success can happen in a blink of an eye.
Audiences and Followers
Comedians needs to look at the tools they have at their disposal such as their current audiences and followers across their social media pages.
Branded Merchandise
Comedians can monetise their followers and sell branded merchandise, such as hoodies, caps, t-shirts and sweaters. If you have x about of followers on your social media pages, that’s the market you can sell your products and stop looking outside and capitalise within your disposal.
NFTs Project
While on the other hand comedians can create an NTFs, Non-Fungible Tokens Project and sell it on the blockchain through Bitcoin, Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies. They can sell a piece of art, picture or branded merchandise and make money through NFTs.
Podcasting
During the hardcore lockdown, every comedian tried their hand on this new medium however that bubble didn’t take long to bust. Comics can use the podcast to create content and sell ad space on their podcast. Doing podcasts requires commitment and consistency.
Comedy Special and Streaming Service
Streaming services are currently looking for a piece of content that they can get to beef up their programming. Any smart comedian should think of recording a comedy special and sell it to those streamers. If you fail to get a deal from streaming services then create your own streaming service and collaborate with your fellow comedians, they can bring their materials and sell it as unit to your own fans through subscription.
For more information and other ideas on how to make money as a comedian feel free to get hold of me on rethabile@nojokescomedy.co.za and follow me on Twitter at @Rethabilem
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