Laughter's his reward…
"I am just happy with the knowledge that I made someone laugh for a moment," Milton said. "That's all the reward I need…" - Mike Milton

Mike Milton studied architecture after graduating from high school in Nevada, but the comedy bug kept gnawing at him. Soon, he struck out on his own.

"Eight years ago, it seemed like the job of my dreams, traveling around, making people laugh, and getting paid for it," Milton told Endeavor News. "I never realized how much hard work it was."

After booking shows on college campuses and in small cities, he settled in for a six-month gig as opening act for the famous "Happy Hypnotist" show in Reno, Nev. Audience reaction was positive.

Later, he and his wife moved to New York City to tackle the highly competitive comedy circuit there. They encountered some personal setbacks, but pressed on. Now, the crowds have increased and Milton has developed a regular following.

While notoriety and the potential of a big payday are closeby in New York, Milton still enjoys the smaller venues.

"I grew up in a small town and that's where I feel the most at home," he said.

"Being a stand-up comic is one of the best jobs in the world, but no matter how much you love it, if you don't treat it like a job then you'll never make it to the next level," Milton said. "I may only be onstage for a couple of hours a night, but that is the happy ending to many long hours of hard work."

He advises anyone entering the business to "write, write and write some more," then try the new material on sample audiences. "Eventually, you'll learn what works and what doesn't work. Of course, that seems to change with every audience."

Those few who are willing to pay their dues -- and are clever and talented enough to keep audiences coming back -- can make their dreams come true.

"I am just happy with the knowledge that I made someone laugh for a moment," Milton said. "That's all the reward I need -- well, a spot on Letterman, HBO or another big show would also be nice."