For a city that has a reputation of being overly political, Washington, D.C., can actually be really funny.
There are many small, grassroots comedy organizations that have gained popularity and grown exponentially in Washington, D.C. They perform at local improv theaters and in the basements of bars.
Here are three spots to catch a comedy show in Washington, D.C. -- from complete amateurs to touring professionals.
1345 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C., 20036
Underground Comedy, a local organization that produces stand-up and improv comedy shows around Washington, D.C., does about eight shows a week at The Big Hunt. This bar is located on Connecticut Avenue in
Dupont Circle and is surrounded by lively nightlife and great restaurants. Come here to grab a craft beer, watch a sports game, and laugh (of course!).
Comedy shows at The Big Hunt take place Wednesday through Saturday, and one of the coolest aspects is that half of the shows are
completely free. If you go on Wednesday or Thursday, or to the 11:30 p.m. shows on Friday or Saturday, there's no cover charge. In addition to hearing some great comedy, you’re supporting artists who are just starting out in their career. To see the more professional, famous acts, there's a $20 cover, and those shows take place on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 and 9:45 p.m.
Get more information about the comedy shows and The Big Hunt,
here.
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Courtesy of undergroundcomedydc.com[/caption]
1100 13th St. NW, Washington, D.C., 20005
If you prefer your comedy in more of a theater setting than in a bar, check out The Drafthouse Theater. It’s a small, fairly-intimate setting, and anywhere you sit, you'll be pretty close to the act. Be prepared for audience participation, and choose your seat wisely!
Though it’s not a bar, the theater does serve beer and wine that you can purchase before, during, and after the show.
You’ll find a range of local and national performers on this stage, and it’s actually one of the coolest places in the city to check out acts that may become famous in a couple years. Take a look at the events
calendar to see who’s coming to town.
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Courtesy of undergroundcomedyfest.com[/caption]
1140 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C., 20036
The best of the best in comedy is at the D.C. Improv Theater. In addition to shows, the theater offers
classes on stand-up for all different levels. Even if you don’t think you’re that funny but still want to improve your improvisation skills and meet new people, you can join one of the classes.
There are also professional shows at the D.C. Improv Theater, where you can watch stand-up and other types of acts all summer long. Check out the
calendar to find a performance you’re interested in. The theater is known for hosting large national acts several times a year, so make sure you get your tickets early, as they tend to sell out quickly.
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Courtesy of Washington.org[/caption]
What’s your favorite spot to watch stand-up comedy in D.C.? Share with us in the comments!
