New York City is the entertainment capital of the world, and so is its comedy scene. You are either a stand-up fanatic or just out for a good night out; NYC has a never-ending array of live comedy performances to indulge in. With so many of them, how do you spot the best comedy shows in New York? In this guide, we will look into how to find the most excellent stand-up, improv, and open mic nights and ensure that you have an experience you will never forget.
Why NYC Is the Ultimate Destination for Comedy Lovers
New York City is the city of some of the greatest comedians of all time, with icons like Richard Pryor and Joan Rivers and contemporary legends like John Mulaney and Amy Schumer. The comedy clubs, theaters, and venues in the city are breeding grounds for new talent and the perfect place to witness their comedy before the rest of the world finds it. Another reason to come is the variety you can see, whether you want to experience sharp-witted stand-up, improv, or experimental comedy — there is bound to be something you will enjoy any single day of the week.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Comedy Show
With many comedy events going on across the city, it’s essential to know what to look for in determining the funniest comedy show for your night out.
1. Type of Venue
The venue has a huge impact on the overall comedy experience. Some venues will have a more intimate experience to feel the punchline in all of the jokes you hear, with bigger theaters producing more grand large scale experiences with famous comedians. Some venues, such as Rodney’s Comedy Club, capture a healthy mixture of both by bringing in big name comedians but while keeping that traditional comedy club feel and experience.
2. Quality of Performers
While having a venue experience is not the only thing that qualifies the quality of a comedy show. Some shows will include basic comedians or even focus on trying comedians. The best thing to do is look at a comedy club website or social media for the talent that will be involved on any given night.
3. Show Type: Stand-Up, Improv, or Open Mic?
New York City’s comedy scene consists of all kinds of shows. If you enjoy seeing polished and professional work that packs lots of laughs, you may want to consider a professionally produced standup show. For humor that is more spontaneous and unpredictable in nature, an improv show might be for you. And finally open mic nights can give you the chance to witness unpolished comedic talent and people who are experimenting with new material.
Best Ways to Discover Comedy Shows in NYC
As there are new comedy events each night, having an understanding of where to look will help you identify the best performances.
1. Comedy Club Websites & Event Listings
Many comedy clubs post updates to their web sites so that you can learn when they are hosting shows. Rodney’s Comedy Club has an updated list of shows hosted on their website that features a mixture of seasoned comedians and new talent. Other event-listing platforms such as TimeOut NYC, Eventbrite and NYC Go highlight the best comedy events hosted throughout New York City.
2. Social Media & Comedy Apps
Following the clubs and the comedians on social media to stay in the loop is one of the best ways to hear about comedy events. Websites like Instagram, Twitter and TikTok constantly post about upcoming shows and last minute changes in their line-up and special comedy events only for social media. Brandsintown and Do NYC are good apps to help you follow events in your area.
3. Word of Mouth & Reviews
Often, the most useful recommendations might be a friend or an online review. Websites like Yelp, Google Reviews, or Reddit communities usually have low bias feedback regarding the local comedy spots in your town. If you check out what the fans suggest in their reviews, it could help narrow down your choices on your next night out!
Pro Tips for Enjoying a NYC Comedy Show
Now that you found a great show, here are some ways to enjoy your comedy night:
- Arrive Early: Good seats disappear quickly, and some clubs even operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Know the Rules of the Venue: Many comedy clubs have a two-drink minimum so be aware (if you opt for a venue like, Rodney’s Comedy Club or the other well-known names).
- Respect the comedians: Avoid heckling during the performance and talking while the act is performing. Comedy is best enjoyed when everyone is respecting the performer doing his/her thing.
- Be willing to experience new acts: Some of the best comedy performances, is simply going to one of the newer events (new talent). Take the new comedians into consideration.
Get Your Tickets for the Best Comedy Shows in NYC
If you’re searching for a surefire night of laughter, NYC’s comedy clubs are definitely the place. Whether it’s stand-up comedy, improv, or an open mic night – there is always something going on in this city that never sleeps. For a true comedy experience, check out Rodney’s Comedy Club as it features some of the best comics available, brought in weekly and monthly, as well as new and fresh talent, all in a classic NYC comedy club vibe. Plan ahead and reserve your comedy tickets, come with your best laugh possible and enjoy a night you won’t forget.
