Three-Hour Pre-Show Routine

Hasan Minhaj shares his detailed pre-show routine that helps him get into the right physical and mental state for performance.

3-Hour Pre-Show Routine

• Exercise

  • Must exercise in some capacity before any show
  • Creates from a place of passion and love, not tortured artist mindset
  • Goal is to "empty the tank" and put everything out on stage

• Personal Preparation

  • Takes a shower
  • Puts on performance outfit ("uniform")
    • Carefully chosen from watch to jacket to pants
    • Creates confidence through proper presentation
    • Feels like "wearing armor"

• Mental Preparation

  • Meditation (10-15 minutes)
    • Uses Headspace app
    • Focus on basic breathing
    • Helps get out of head and into body
  • Prayer
    • Establishes intention beyond self
    • Sets purpose: "let me give joy to people"
    • Focuses on love and bringing joy, not negative energy

• Venue Routine

  • Arrives 1 hour before show
  • Double shot of espresso
  • Spends 30-45 minutes being loose with staff
    • Talks with security, door person, openers
    • Another way to get out of head by connecting with others
  • Final 30 minutes in green room
    • Writes down new tags/jokes to try
    • Reviews material on hotel notepad
    • Makes specific notes for performance

Key Principles

• Getting out of head and into body
• Establishing positive intention
• Creating confidence through preparation
• Focusing on giving to audience rather than self
• Building physical and mental readiness through structured routine