Stop us if you’ve heard this one before, but Seattle’s got a side-splitting comedy scene. Besides the major touring acts rolling through town this summer — like Ali Wong and Samantha Bee — there are large local festivals to enjoy and a shiny new club that just opened in one of our busiest nightlife destinations.
So, if you need a good belly laugh — and who doesn’t these days — here’s where the punchlines are popping. No hecklers, please.
Best of the fests
Upper Left Comedy Festival, various Belltown venues | Thursday, May 11-Saturday, May 13 | $20-$300 | The second annual event highlights local talent like Dewa Dorje and other touring headliners from around the US.
Black Trans Comedy Showcase, SIFF Cinema Egyptian | Saturday, June 10 | $50 | This night of entertainment features local stars like Beyonce Black St. James — proceeds go to the Lavender Rights Project.
Stand-up stages
Comedy/Bar, 210 Broadway E. | This Capitol Hill venue just opened with open mics, a “cannabis-infused” show, and our personal favorite concept — Punslam.
Laughs Comedy Club, 5220 Roosevelt Way | College kids regularly cram into this U District spot to see comics you might recognize from late-night shows — there’s also a five-week stand-up course for those who feel inspired.
Here - After, 2505 First Ave. | Inside The Crocodile in Belltown is a smaller venue that hosts well-known stand-up performers, as well as offbeat shows like Dungeons & Drag Queens.
Improv
CSz Seattle, 3509 Fremont Ave. N. | Get those whistles ready for this troupe’s flagship “Comedy Sportz” performance that pits two improv teams against each other.
Jet City Improv, 5031 University Way NE | The nonprofit theater often mixes things up with creative themes and offers multi-week classes, too.
Unexpected Productions, 1428 Post Alley | Pike Place’s venerable, 40-year-old improv theater does everything from Mother’s Day shows to science fiction.
