As we explored in our September 2021 issue, metro Detroit has a thriving comedy scene. Experience it for yourself and get the laughs in at these local comedy clubs.
The Independent Comedy Club
Located inside Planet Ant, The Independent is dedicated to stand-up comedy. The club itself is run by comics, so it’s a supportive space for up-and-coming comedians to thrive. Visit the website for a full list of the club’s upcoming events, including stand-up by Mike O’Keefe, Zach Stein, and Ed Hill. The Independent Comedy Club, 2320 Caniff St., Hamtramck; planetant.com
Ant Hall
Also part of Planet Ant, Ant Hall hosts shows like I Ain’t No Joke and The Ants in the Hall. Held the first Wednesday of every month, I Ain’t No Joke features improvisers who create a performance based on a stand-up set by a local comedian. The Ants In the Hall is a variety show held every Thursday that includes improv, sketch comedy, and other stage acts. Ant Hall, 2320 Caniff St., Hamtramck; planetant.com
Tom Roney’s Comic Vibe
Tom Roney’s Comic Vibe is located inside Starter’s Bar and Grille. Founded by comedian, actor, writer, and producer Tony Roney, this lively comedy club hosts weekly shows starting at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Its monthly lineups are always posted ahead of time, including headliners like Silly Siren, Black Los, April Hollywood, and Mello Mel. The club provides a sense of community for its comics, posting videos of its acts on social media. Tony Roney’s Comic Vibe, 18426 Plymouth Road, Detroit; 248-906-6119; tonyroneyscomicvibe.com
Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle
The first comedy club in Michigan, Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle was founded in 1979. Launching the careers of Tim Allen and Dave Coulier, it’s one of the most iconic comedy clubs in the area. Mark Ridley himself hand selects the talent to perform at the club, ensuring a hilarious show every night. Performers like Bob Saget, Jim Carrey, and Kathleen Madigan have all performed at Comedy Castle. Local comedians can also come out for comedy classes and open mic nights. Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle, 310 S. Troy St., Royal Oak; 248-542-9900; comedycastle.com
One Night Stan’s Comedy Club
Since opening its doors in 2018, One Night Stan’s has hosted more than 100 comics and quickly become a staple in the Waterford community. With a full-service bar and lounge area, visitors can pop in to catch a show or reserve the facility for private events. One Night Stan’s Comedy Club, 4761 Highland Road, Waterford; 248-875-6524; onenightstanscomedyclub.com
Go Comedy! Improv Theater
Offering both intro and advanced classes, Go Comedy! Improv Theater is a great introduction to the world of improv. The Ferndale club hosts weekly All-star Showdown improv shows, which feature an “all-star” cast of local comedians. The show includes short improv games, challenges, and other interactive elements. Go Comedy! Improv Theatre, 261 E. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale; 248-872-3571; gocomedy.net
Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
While stars like Ellen Degeneres, Drew Carrey, Soupy Sales, and Chris Titus have performed in this Ann Arbor hot spot, the comedy club is devoted to providing a platform to up-and-coming performers, too. Rolling Stone magazine referred to the showcase as “one of the best clubs between the coasts.” In addition to scheduled talent, Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase also hosts weekly open mic nights. Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase, 212 S. Fourth Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-996-90880; aacomedy.com
Detroit House of Comedy
Opening this summer, the Detroit House of Comedy will be located in the former City Theatre space at Hockeytown Cafe. The club is owned by Rick and Tobin Bronson, who together have a combined 60 years of experience in the comedy and entertainment industries. This 300-seat theatre will host multiple shows a week, from high-profile comedians to rookies. Detroit House of Comedy, 2301 Woodward Ave., Detroit; detroithouseofcomedy.com
Facebook Comments