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Comedy Clubs in New York City

Name a comedian and there's a good chance that person has performed in New York City. The city's comedy clubs attract the top talent in the world. While New York is the big leagues, it's also a place where novices flock to get a start and attract attention. You could be seeing the next biggest star on any given night.

  1. Comic Strip Live

    • The club's first big star after its 1975 opening was an 18-year-old Eddie Murphy. Since then, dozens of other stars such as Adam Sandler, Sarah Silverman and Caroline Rhea have gotten their starts at Comic Strip Live. The club still gives hope to unknown comedians looking to get discovered with its "New Talent Showcase" and "Gladys Legendary Open Mic" nights. Gladys was based for 15 years at the now closed Hamburger Harry's. The comedy room has reopened at Comic Strip Live to keep the tradition going.

      Comic Strip Live received additional fame in 2008 by setting the Guinness World Record for the "Longest Stand Up Comedy Show In History" that lasted 50 straight hours with over 100 comedians performing.

      Comic Strip Live
      1568 2 Avenue
      New York, NY 10028
      (212) 861-9386
      comicstriplive.com

    Dangerfield's Comedy Club

    • The famed late comedian Rodney Dangerfield often said, "I don't get no respect." But in truth, he was a well-respected comedian who had many roles and a lot of fans. The comedy club that bears his name also gets respect. It claims to be the longest running comedy club in the world, starting in 1969. This isn't a club for rookies as Dangerfield's does not have amateur nights or open microphone nights like some other venues. It draws the top comedians in the world, including Jay Leno, Chris Rock and Jerry Seinfeld.
      The club is available to rent for private parties and it has an annual "After-Prom Celebration" which features headline comics and non-alcoholic drinks.

      Dangerfield's Comedy Club
      1118 1st Avenue
      New York, NY 10065
      (212) 593-1650
      dangerfields.com

    Gotham Comedy Club

    • You might recognize Gotham Comedy Club from Comedy Central's "Live at Gotham" or the fifth season of NBC'S "Last Comic Standing." It was also the backdrop for the pilot of "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and Jerry Seinfeld's film "Comedian." Besides the top stars that often perform, Gotham's "New Talent Showcase" helps fledgling comedians. You might even be invited to perform before the industry's leading managers, casting agents and scouts at special performances. Gotham offers stand up comedy classes to help you hone your craft.

      Gotham Comedy Club
      208 W. 23rd Street
      New York, NY 10011
      (212) 367-9000
      http://www.gothamcomedyclub.com

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