Standup comedians are performers who entertain crowds through their comedy routines. They typically perform in live environments, standing in front of audiences on a stage while speaking directly to them. During their performances, comedians usually tell prewritten or impromptu jokes or share humorous stories in the form of a monologue. While comedians often stand on the stage alone with a microphone, some use props or even have guests take part in their performances. Among their many talents, standup comedians are known for being able to control a room and manage hecklers who make fun of them or try to interrupt their performances. The origins of standup comedy date back to as early as the 19th century with comedic lectures from individuals like Mark Twain. In its early decades, standup comedy largely took the form of variety shows and minstrel shows. In vaudeville houses, standup comedy often involved comedy teams talking to each other as opposed to the audience. However, there were comedians like Frank Fay who performed solo while communicating directly with the audience. Currently, there are 10 recognized styles of standup comedy: observational, alternative, anecdotal, insult, improv, sketch comedy, topical, deadpan, musical, and surreal. Comedians like Bob Hope, Borscht Belt, and Jonathan Winters helped establish the modern-day era of standup comedy. Other comedians who contributed to or advanced modern comedy styles include Dick Gregory, Lenny Bruce, George Carlin, Richard Pryor, and Jerry Seinfeld. While many comedians align themselves with one or more of recognized standup styles, there is no guideline for performing standup comedy. As long as the audience connects with the material, the comedian will likely find success. It is generally understood among standup comedians that the process of transitioning from an amateur to a professional can take as long as 10 years. While there is no specific manner in which to begin this career, some recommend taking a standup comedy class to learn joke-writing and how to write comedic sets. This type of class can also help you meet other amateur comedians and build the nerve to perform in front of an audience. Standup comedians are also encouraged to take part in “open-mic nights” in settings like comedy clubs, nightclubs, and bars where they can test out their material in front of live audiences without the requirement of first being booked to perform. It is in this environment that comedians receive the honest reactions they need to create the best routines. These types of performances are typically unpaid. As standup comedians continue to test their material, they might begin booking paid gigs in nightclubs, comedy clubs, bars, pubs, and at festivals. As they become more popular, they might be invited to perform at colleges, for corporations, on cruise ships, in theaters, and possibly even as warm-ups for television shows. The most successful comedians are able to perform for an hour or more in front of a live audience and have their routines recorded for distribution on popular television networks and Internet streaming services. Others have been able to transition into successful television and movie careers.