From improv to stand-up, comedy in Massachusetts is centered in the Boston area. For those comedy fans interested in trying it out for themselves, many improvisational clubs offer classes for individuals, groups and corporate team-building. While some are only open on weekend nights, well-known establishments like Dick's Beantown feature shows every night of the week.
In addition to having shows nearly every night of the week, Improv Boston offers classes in improvisational comedy, comedy writing and stand-up. Located in the Central Square neighborhood of Boston, the club was started as a group led by a former Second City (Chicago) student. The Improv Boston comics performed at various restaurants and bars until 1993, when they began leasing the Back Alley Theater, located at 40 Prospect St. in Cambridge.
ImprovBoston
40 Prospect St.
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-576-1253
improvboston.com
Also in Cambridge, The Comedy Studio is a place both for new comics to hone their styles and experienced ones to continue to grow. Their shows begin at 8 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, and cost between $8 and $10. They describe themselves as a must-visit, cutting-edge breeding ground for talent, new and old.
The Comedy Studio
1238 Massachusetts Ave.
Boston, MA 02138
617-661-6507
thecomedystudio.com
Named after 18th-century joke-book compiler John Mottley, Mottley's Comedy Club's tagline is "A comedy revolution." The theater's approach involves mixing traditional comedy with more innovative styles on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. The club is located at 61 Chatham St., below Trinity Bar, and most shows begin at 8 p.m.
Mottley's Comedy Club
61 Chatham St.
Boston, MA 02109
877-61-LAUGH
mottleyscomedy.com
Open daily, Dick's has featured nationally successful comedians like Dane Cook as past regulars. Found in a renovated bank at 124 Boylston St., the comedy vault seats 85. The age requirement is 18, just right for the collegiate neighborhood. All-star comedy showcases run Monday through Thursday, and open-mic night is Sunday.
Dick Doherty's Beantown Boston Comedy Vault
124 Boylston St.
Boston, MA 02130
800-401-2221
dickdoherty.com
Specializing in both sketch and improvisational comedy, Improv Asylum offers dinner packages and customized, interactive group events. They also offer six different levels of sketch classes, ranging from learning basic concepts to creating a full show with a director. Located in the North End at 216 Hanover St., Improv Asylum's students can see almost all of the comedy shows for free.
Improv Asylum
216 Hanover St.
Boston, MA 02113
888-396-6887
improvasylum.com
