I'm not sure the point. Are you trying to get him to accept bitcoins for work, merchandise, or just beg for donations on stage? I don't see him mentioning anything about Bitcoins and you're statement is kind of unclear. Do you know him? Is he just a comic you like and you're floating an idea?
"What if he refused to go on until there was an uptick (donation)?"
It would be the worst comedy show of all time. There is absolutely no point in shoe-horning Bitcoin in to places it doesn't practically fit for no reason.
As an eleven year professional comedian, who has talked about Bitcoin on stage for months, I can tell you that having a ticker on stage and holding up a show for Bitcoin donations makes no sense and would be horribly boring and pointless.
Also, as an aside, I announced on my Bitcoin podcast in August that I'd accept Bitcoin for my merchandise and performances in the future. I'll be headlining in San Antonio at the River Center Comedy Club the first week in January. Come buy a CD or t-shirt after my show with BTC!
www.pmelt.com