This book sets out a fresh approach to stand-up comedy. By constructing a theoretical framework using laughter theory, phenomenology and contemporary performance theory, it provides not only a new analytical tool for this genre of performance, but also a means by which it can be understood, discussed and taught. Tim Miles combines empirical research into the ‘lived experience’ of live stand-up with a strong theoretical model to explore the importance of performance expectations; perceptions of space; sensory perceptions; liveness; the lived experience; inter-subjectivity; memory; interactions; collectively; and perceptions of truth and trust.