Performers
The Montclair Comedy Festival is calling all stand-up comics, improv troupes, sketch teams, and comedic misfits to take the stage and bring the funny for the second annual MCF, November 14-21, 2026 in downtown Montclair. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a fresh face ready to break out, this is your moment to shine. The Montclair Comedy Festival offers the perfect stage to showcase your talent and connect with a passionate comedy community. Submit now!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I submit to perform in the Montclair Comedy Festival?
The fee depends on whether you apply as an individual or a group, and when you submit:
Individual Performer
- Early Bird (July 1 — July 31, 2026): $15
- Regular (August 1 — October 10, 2026): $25
- Late (October 11 — October 24, 2026): $35
Group (more than 1 person)
- Early Bird (July 1 — July 31, 2026): $35
- Regular (August 1 — October 10, 2026): $45
- Late (October 11 — October 24, 2026): $55
Notifications of acceptance on or before October 30, 2026.
Is there a fee to submit?
Yes, there’s a small non-refundable submission fee to help cover admin costs.
Why is there a submission fee?
We charge a submission fee of $25 for individuals and $45 for groups (sketch or improv) to help cover the many costs of running Montclair Comedy Festival’s Spring Fling — including:
- Marketing and promotions
- Website and submission platforms
- Venue rental and tech
- Staff and volunteer coordination
- Design, printing, and signage
- Administrative overhead
- And, yes, keeping the lights on!
This helps ensure we can provide a high-quality, professional, and well-attended experience for performers and audiences alike. We appreciate your support.
How will performer selections work?
We’re committed to making the Montclair Comedy Festival a vibrant, inclusive, and fair space for performers of all levels. To ensure a transparent and unbiased selection process, click here to see how submissions will be reviewed.
Is there an age restriction for performers?
Yes. Performers must be at least 18 years old to submit and perform in the Montclair Comedy Festival.
We love supporting emerging talent, but due to venue restrictions, show content, and insurance requirements, we are currently only accepting adult performers. If you’re under 18 and interested in comedy, stay tuned — we hope to offer youth or teen programming in the future!
What kinds of comedy acts will be considered?
If it’s funny, we want to see it. We welcome stand-up, sketch, musical comedy, improv, and more! (No film at this time.)
Do you provide travel or lodging?
We currently do not cover travel or lodging, but we’re happy to connect you with local resources or recommend nearby accommodations.
Can I sell my merch at the show?
Yes! Let us know in advance so we can plan table space or coordinate with the venue.
Health Policy
The health and safety of our performers, audience members, volunteers, and staff is a top priority at the Montclair Comedy Festival.
We will follow all local and state public health guidelines in place at the time of the festival. These may include:
- Masking: While masks are not currently required, they are encouraged, especially in crowded indoor spaces.
- Vaccination: Proof of vaccination is not required unless mandated by local venues or regulations.
- Symptoms/Exposure: We ask that anyone feeling unwell, experiencing symptoms, or recently exposed to COVID-19 stay home.
- Venue-Specific Policies: Some partner venues may have their own COVID protocols in place. If that’s the case, we’ll communicate those clearly in advance of your show or visit.
- Flexibility: This policy may be updated based on the latest guidance from health authorities. We’ll notify all participants and ticketholders of any changes.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to keep the laughs flowing safely!