Stand-up comedy is a
comic style in which a
comedian performs in front of a live audience, usually speaking directly to them. The performer is commonly known as a
comic,
stand-up comic,
stand-up comedian, or simply a
stand-up. In stand-up comedy, the comedian usually recites a grouping of humorous stories,
jokes and
one-liners typically called a
monologue, routine, or act. Some stand-up comedians use
props, music, or
magic tricks to enhance their acts. Stand-up comedy is often performed in
comedy clubs, bars, nightclubs,
neo-burlesques, colleges, and theaters. Outside of live performance, stand-up is often distributed commercially via
television,
DVD, and the
internet.