Culver City, California, known as the heart of the entertainment industry with its historic movie studios and vibrant arts scene, also offers a lively stand-up comedy culture. Nestled between Los Angeles and Santa Monica, Culver City is home to intimate comedy venues that attract top-tier talent as well as emerging local comedians. While smaller than nearby comedy hubs, Culver City’s stand-up scene is growing rapidly, providing locals and visitors with plenty of opportunities to catch a fun night of laughter. With its laid-back vibe and strong ties to the film and TV industries, Culver City is quickly becoming a prime destination for comedy lovers seeking top-quality performances in a more relaxed setting.
Top Comedy Clubs in Culver City
The Blind Barber: This trendy speakeasy in Culver City may be known for its craft cocktails and retro barber shop aesthetic, but it also hosts regular comedy nights featuring some of the best up-and-coming comedians in LA. The Blind Barber’s cozy, intimate vibe makes it the perfect spot for comedy lovers to enjoy a night of laughter with a drink in hand. The laid-back atmosphere and strong lineup of performers make this hidden gem a favorite among locals looking for a unique comedy experience.
The Culver Hotel: This historic landmark in downtown Culver City is known for its elegant atmosphere and live entertainment, including occasional stand-up comedy shows. While not a dedicated comedy club, The Culver Hotel offers a classy, vintage backdrop for intimate comedy events, featuring both local talent and special performances. For a comedy night with a touch of old Hollywood charm, The Culver Hotel provides a unique experience.
The Garage on Motor: A newer addition to the Culver City comedy scene, The Garage on Motor is a small venue that regularly hosts stand-up showcases and open mics. Known for its relaxed vibe and creative programming, this venue brings together local comedians for intimate performances. The Garage is quickly becoming a go-to spot for those looking to catch fresh, experimental comedy in an intimate setting.
Comedians to Watch in Culver City
Beth Stelling: An LA-based comedian and writer, Beth Stelling has strong ties to the Culver City area and frequently performs at venues throughout Los Angeles. Known for her witty, relatable humor and dry delivery, Stelling’s stand-up has been featured on Conan, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Netflix. Her blend of smart observational humor and personal storytelling makes her a standout performer whenever she takes the stage in Culver City.
Jak Knight: A rising star in the LA comedy scene, Jak Knight is known for his sharp, socially conscious humor and energetic stage presence. A frequent performer at venues throughout Culver City and beyond, Knight has written for Big Mouth and Black-ish and regularly tours with top comedians. His fearless style and quick wit make him one of the most exciting comedians to watch in the Culver City area.
Jena Friedman: Known for her dark, satirical humor, Jena Friedman is a writer, director, and comedian who often performs in Culver City and the surrounding areas. A former field producer for The Daily Show, Friedman’s stand-up touches on politics, culture, and society with a sharp, intelligent edge. She has performed at The Blind Barber and other local venues, where her thought-provoking comedy always leaves an impression.
Comedy Festivals in Culver City
Los Angeles Diversity in Comedy Festival: While based primarily in Los Angeles, this festival often extends to venues in Culver City. The festival celebrates diversity in comedy, featuring performances from comedians of various backgrounds and styles. Culver City’s proximity to LA makes it a key location for some of the festival’s events, with local venues hosting showcases that highlight underrepresented voices in the comedy world. With a mix of stand-up, improv, and sketch performances, this festival brings fresh and unique talent to the area.
Culver City Comedy Crawl: A local comedy event, the Culver City Comedy Crawl is an annual showcase that features performances at multiple venues around the city. Local comedians and emerging talent take the stage in different locations, providing a fun, laid-back night of laughter. It’s a great way to explore Culver City’s vibrant comedy scene while supporting local venues and performers.
While smaller than its neighboring LA comedy scene, Culver City’s stand-up offerings are growing, thanks to venues like The Blind Barber and The Garage on Motor. Whether you're catching a comedy show in an intimate setting or enjoying an open mic night with friends, Culver City’s relaxed atmosphere and creative community provide a unique backdrop for stand-up. With easy access to both local talent and national headliners performing nearby, Culver City is a hidden gem for comedy fans in Southern California. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s always a night of laughs waiting to be discovered in this vibrant city.