Let's say you fancy yourself the next big thing in comedy. And let's assume you've taken that next step in proving you have what it takes by writing and casting a sketch or written your stand-up act and are pining for a free venue to perform it. You've experienced the open mic scene in New York and you're not impressed. Paying five dollars for five minutes of soul deadening stage time with a one-drink minimum¹ isn't in your budget. Luckily the Magnet Theater has a show just for you, and it's called "Casual Sketch."

The once monthly comedy showcase, hosted by Leanne Linsky is now a bi-monthly free event thanks to the success of the community that frequents the Magnet, an improv theater seating roughly 70 folks located in Chelsea. While sitting in the retro movie theater style chairs², you're sure to hear just as many jokes as you will on stage. The Magnet's audience is comedy savvy and intelligent. People go there to laugh and have a good time, which is as obvious as the community atmospheric vibes adorning the venue. In fact this room is so supportive that you'll see people doing and getting away with things³ no regular comedy club audience would dare let the most accepted and seasoned stand up performers get away with without a heckle.

Don't be surprised to see a wide array of talents showing off at a "Casual Sketch" show. It's possible to witness stand-up, storytelling, sketch comedy, and even comedic monologues performed within the same hour-long showcase. You will also see people entering and exiting the theater's restroom, as the door is located adjacent to the stage and is as visible to the performers as is the audience. So even if you merely attend "Casual Sketch" to watch, should you need use the facilities halfway through the show then you'll be on stage for a short portion of the night as well⁴.

And you will frequent said facilities should you take the bartender up on the affordable beverages he or she is serving, $2 PBR's, $3 Red Stripes, $5 imports and wine, and $1 soft drinks. Not to mention the chairs have neat movie theater armrests with drink holders that will hold said beverages while you chuckle it up⁵.

If you're interested in performing your take on "the comedies," show up to the venue sometime before 10pm to sign up or go to the Casual Sketch website for advanced reservations. If you're interested in watching, just show up, it's free. There's more information about the Magnet Theater and everything that they do comedy at their website. The next "Casual Sketch" will be held May 19th.

¹ So you order a water and it's $5 too
² They stole from an AMC Theater
³ Being boring
⁴ For a creepy man watching through the 2-way restroom mirror
⁵ Unless you chuck your drink on a comedian

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