What’s not to love about laughing, being funny, or learning how to be funnier? In fact, I often say that one of my favorite “sports” is laughing. That’s why I’ve taken my fair share of improv classes (more about that later) and gone out to see loads of stand-up comedy shows. It’s good for the soul, and the comedy scene in Los Angeles is one of the best remedies for a tough day.
While LA can be a challenging place for actors – and comedians, for that matter – the comedy scene in Los Angeles has plenty to offer. If you love to laugh, perform, or explore your funny side, you’ll fit right in.
Why Los Angeles Is a Great Place to Explore Comedy
Are you a newly landed Canadian, British, or Australian actor with a knack for comedy? Or maybe you’re just curious about developing your comedic talents? Either way, you’re in the right city. Los Angeles happens to be one of the best places in the world to dive into comedy, with opportunities for both newcomers and seasoned pros.
Comedy clubs in Los Angeles are buzzing with activity, and it’s surprisingly affordable to enjoy a great show. I can’t tell you how many nights I’ve laughed my butt off for just $20! On a budget? Trade a cocktail for a bottle of water, and you’ll still be thoroughly entertained.
Another cool part about the comedy scene in Los Angeles is its star power. Big-name comedians like Ali Wong, Dave Chappelle, Arsenio Hall, and John Mulaney often pop into smaller venues to test new jokes. On any random night, you might catch an impromptu set by a comedy legend performing for an intimate crowd. How awesome is that?
The Comedy Scene in Los Angeles: Improv Shows & Training
All Improv schools in Los Angeles (see examples below) offer excellent and affordable comedy shows that can be seen on any night of the week.
When it comes to training, many schools offer public classes and core programs that require auditions. These core programs typically consist of four or five levels, with each level including eight classes spread over four or eight weeks. Some schools even provide multi-day intensives for students on a tight schedule. However, since advancing through core programs involves auditions and passing levels, improv can feel a bit like a competitive sport all on its own.
Most core programs eventually lead to sketch writing courses, making these schools ideal for those wanting to combine acting, comedy, and writing skills. Let’s take a closer look at the most renowned improv schools in the comedy scene in Los Angeles.
The Groundlings: The “Harvard” of Improv Comedy
The Groundlings is widely regarded as the “Harvard” of improv comedy. I know this from experience because I enrolled here myself. Even Level I was a serious challenge. The Groundlings heavily focus on character creation, and the program feels competitive from the very beginning because you must demonstrate proficiency in each level before advancing to the next. I didn’t make it past Level I, but watching classmates with incredible talent was a real treat.
Unfortunately, there are only a handful of public classes at The Groundlings. While the open classes are super fun, they offer limited exposure to improv and the school’s structured curriculum. If you’re serious about training here, you’ll need to audition.
Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB): Where Comedy Meets Creativity
Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) has a “street-kid” vibe compared to The Groundlings, but it still offers a well-structured program. I noticed that most students were younger than at The Groundlings, though there were still a few older folks like me. UCB does not require auditions for entry-level classes, which means anyone can give it a shot. However, students must be invited to progress to the next levels as they advance through the curriculum.
UCB is also known for its history. The school originated as an improv group that included the brilliant Amy Poehler. I loved my time at UCB because it felt more relaxed than The Groundlings. In Level I, we didn’t worry as much about our proficiency. Plus, we were thrown into the ring right away – we had to perform a live show at the end of the term. It was nerve-racking but exciting. I gained a lot of confidence from that experience, and our group did surprisingly well for beginners.
Rich Baker: Improv Online
My personal favorite improv coach is Rich Baker whom I met while he was teaching at Second City in Hollywood. (The school was the best! They even had a musical improv program which I loved, but sadly, they closed.)
Rich knows his stuff, he’s from Second City in Chicago and had studied with the best. He also performs improv regularly. He runs his classes on Zoom, so you get to learn improvisation in the comfort of your own home! I know it sounds dubious, but it works. His classes are also one of the most affordable options out there.
Smaller Schools and Community Groups
Beyond these, other smaller schools contribute to the comedy scene in Los Angeles. Many teach improv through “comedy sports” formats and focus on making their courses accessible to the public. Joining these programs is an excellent way to meet like-minded individuals and make new friends.
In fact, I’ve found these classes to be a wonderful social experience. Students who “click” often stay connected after their terms end. Some even form groups and continue practicing together. If creating comedy content is your dream, improv can absolutely be a source of endless inspiration.
Does Improv Training Help Actors in Los Angeles?
If you’re pursuing a career in acting, solid improv training is a great asset but not a complete solution. To succeed as a working actor in Los Angeles, theater or on-camera training is essential. While improv teaches valuable comedic skills, it won’t make you versatile enough for a well rounded acting career.
That said, improv training is absolutely beneficial. Many casting directors and commercial agents often seek out improv alumni because they excel at thinking on their feet. You’ll find that many commercial auditions value strong comedic and improvisational skills. As you gain experience in advanced improv shows, don’t be shy about inviting agents or industry pros to see your performances.
To learn more about acting in Los Angeles, read Get Clever About VO Acting In Los Angeles Part I: The Business of Acting.
The Comedy Scene in Los Angeles: Enjoy Great Stand-Up Comedy
When it comes to stand-up comedy, Los Angeles doesn’t disappoint. The city’s iconic venues – The Improv, The Comedy Store, and the Laugh Factory – are staples of the comedy scene in Los Angeles, offering unforgettable performances every week. These clubs are the go-to spots for both established comedians and rising stars.
But the laughs don’t stop there. You can also catch fantastic stand-up shows at theaters associated with improv schools like The Groundlings and Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB).
Is The Laugh Factory Worth the Price?
While The Laugh Factory is one of LA’s most popular spots for stand-up, its entry fees can be noticeably steeper compared to other venues. This higher price rarely feels justified because the same comedians often perform at multiple clubs across the city. So, don’t worry if The Laugh Factory is out of budget. You’ll likely see the same acts at a more affordable spot.
Explore More Amazing Comedy Venues
If you don’t mind driving a little, there are plenty of other incredible clubs outside the main comedy hubs of LA. The Comedy & Magic Club, Virgil, Dynasty Typewriter, Flappers, The Ice House, Comedy Union, Tao Comedy Studio, and West Side Comedy Theater all feature excellent lineups and welcoming atmospheres.
Many of these venues have hosted some of the biggest names in comedy and remain favorites among celebrities. You never know who might make a surprise appearance during your visit!
Budget-Friendly Tips for Enjoying Stand-Up Comedy
While most venues have a two-drink minimum on top of the entrance fee, you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy the comedy scene in Los Angeles. Even bottled water counts toward your drink minimum, so you can keep costs to a minimum while having a good laugh.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own material or simply want to immerse yourself in comedy culture, Los Angeles’s diverse comedy clubs are guaranteed to leave an impression.
The Comedy Scene in Los Angeles: Try Stand-Up Comedy
Dreaming of stepping onto the stage and delivering your own stand-up comedy routine? In the comedy scene in Los Angeles, breaking into clubs as a performer comes with its challenges. For beginners, the focus isn’t always on the quality of your jokes. It’s often about how many people you can bring to your shows.
If you’re able to fill seats consistently, you’ll get better time slots on the nights you perform. However, if you struggle to pack the house, it can make getting on any comedy bill an uphill battle. In short, your audience size matters just as much as your material.
Most comedy shows in Los Angeles are produced by other comedians who are looking to expose their own acts to new audiences – namely, your audience. This setup naturally creates a competitive environment. I’ve followed a few friends’ careers, and navigating stand-up in Los Angeles isn’t easy. It’s a tough business that requires steely determination and an army of friends to support you regularly.
Test Your Skills at Open Mics (If You Dare!)
If you’re ready to take the plunge and test your material, Los Angeles offers an Open Mic somewhere nearly every night of the week. For a full list of these opportunities, take a look at this Open Mic map.
Be prepared, though: Open Mics are typically filled with other comics rather than a traditional audience. While this means you won’t be building a fanbase directly, it’s still a valuable way to network and meet other comedians. These connections can lead to opportunities to perform at other comedy nights or shows hosted by your fellow comedians.
Keep in mind that comedy show hosts are under pressure to fill seats in the venues they book. The success of the show (and their ability to produce more events) depends greatly on crowd size. Because of this, many prefer recruiting comedians who can bring large audiences, not just great jokes.
Bring a Supportive Crew
While you can absolutely attend Open Mics solo, bringing friends along when you perform can work in your favor. Not only will they cheer you on, but their support could also help you stand out and secure spots on bigger comedy shows in the future. One thing is certain: in the comedy scene in Los Angeles, having a reliable group to back you up can make all the difference.
The Comedy Scene in Los Angeles: Find a Comedy Coach
If you’re looking to refine your stand-up comedy skills, Los Angeles is home to many talented comedy coaches who can help sharpen your material and perfect your style. In the comedy scene in Los Angeles, personalized coaching can give you the edge you need to stand out. Here are a few professionals to consider as you begin your journey:
Choosing the Right Comedy Coach
As with any acting or performance training, it’s important to find the right fit when selecting a comedy coach. Comedy is subjective, so you’ll want someone who understands your unique perspective and supports your development.
Always ask if you can audit a class before committing, as this allows you to observe their teaching style. If auditing isn’t an option, trust your instincts. Make sure you feel a strong connection to the coach to maximize your growth as a performer.
Make Comedy Part of Your Journey
Whether you’re mildly curious or fully committed to exploring comedy as part of your creative path, you can find plenty of opportunities in the comedy scene in Los Angeles. From watching shows to stepping onto the stage yourself, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the world of laughter.
Here’s a quick recap of how you can dive in:
- See improv shows produced by schools like The Groundlings and UCB.
- Enjoy affordable and excellent stand-up comedy across iconic venues and lesser-known gems.
- Test your skills at Open Mics happening every night of the week.
- Take an improv class.
- Work with a comedy coach to refine your material and style.
Enjoy every moment of your journey into comedy!
My name is Lili Wexu, and I am a Canadian-American actress. Want to get into VO? Turn your auditions into produced demo spots in minutes. Fast, easy, NO editing. Your first VO demo is on me.
