Boston’s comedy scene is thriving, showcasing not just big names in large venues but also incredible talent in intimate settings.
The city’s small and midsize comedy clubs offer a unique atmosphere, where laughter resonates in close quarters and audiences can truly connect with performers.
Among these gems is The Black Comedy Explosion, an event spearheaded by Jonathon Gates since 1989.
This stand-up showcase, held every Wednesday, has found a new home at the Carver Den in Dorchester Center as of 2024.
Gates not only features national headliners but also provides a platform for local rising stars, making it a cornerstone of the Black comedy community in Boston.
Addressed warmly, Gates ensures every patron is enjoying their evening, further enhancing the show’s appeal.
For those interested in improvisational comedy, Improv Asylum stands out, having entertained audiences since 1997.
The Main Stage show, which takes place from Thursday to Saturday, is its flagship performance, but the club also offers a mix of adult-oriented acts and family-friendly shows, rated PG-13, during weekends.
Improv Asylum expands its comedic reach with trolley tours that combine sightseeing with laughter, including options like “The Massholes Comedy Trolley Tour” and the cannabis-infused “Bliss Bus.”
Located at 74 Warrenton Street in Downtown, Improv Asylum is a must-visit for comedy enthusiasts.
Another key player in the Boston comedy landscape is Laugh Boston, which claims the title of the largest dedicated comedy club in the area, featuring 300 seats.
Since its opening in 2013, it has been bustling with performances throughout the week, especially on weekends, with a variety of acts from local favorites like Will Noonan to more prominent names such as Tim Meadows and Ben Bailey.
The venue, situated within The Westin Boston Seaport District hotel, caters to a diverse array of comedic tastes, primarily focusing on stand-up but also accommodating improv and podcast tapings.
For those who appreciate an even cozier vibe, The Mendoza Line offers an exceptionally intimate showcase every Saturday night.
Located in the basement of the Dugout Cafe on the Boston University campus, this venue holds approximately 35 attendees, allowing for a personal and engaging experience.
Comics must navigate through the audience to reach the stage, creating a secretive and fun atmosphere reminiscent of a hidden clubhouse.
Local comedians, including Sean Rosa, Rob Creen, Ben Keefe, and Zach Stewart, often host and perform, bringing in not only their fellow local talent but also visiting acts.
In Somerville, The Rockwell serves as a creative hub with its basement black-box space, accommodating close to 200 guests.
With Deby Xiadani as the new artistic director, the venue continues its legacy of hosting quirky comedy, theater, and music performances.
Attendees can expect a blend of one-person shows, themed nights, and unique indie musicians, all delivered with a comedic twist.
Rozzie Square Theater, another intimate venue, offers a 49-seat space for various comedy programming, with a leaning toward improv and sketch acts.
This cozy theater hosts regular shows, including the weekly ComedySportz competition and a Queer Comedy Night, alongside workshops to promote diverse comedic voices.
With its location at 5 Basile Street in Roslindale, Rozzie Square Theater is a welcoming environment for both performers and audiences alike.
Boston Globe’s Best of the Best winners for 2025 were curated through the insight and expertise of Globe newsroom staff and correspondents, specifically focusing on Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, and Brookline.
Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts — did your favorite local comedy club make the list?
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