Glendale, California, known for its thriving arts scene, shopping destinations like the Americana at Brand, and proximity to Los Angeles, is quietly emerging as a hotspot for stand-up comedy. While it may not have the sheer volume of comedy venues found in nearby LA, Glendale’s growing comedy scene offers a unique mix of intimate shows and performances from both local talent and well-known comedians. Whether you're in the mood for a cozy night of laughs at a local venue or want to experience stand-up from top-tier performers, Glendale provides a refreshing alternative to LA's larger, busier comedy circuit. The city’s laid-back vibe and growing entertainment options make it an ideal place for comedy fans looking for something a little different.
Top Comedy Clubs in Glendale
The Glendale Room: The Glendale Room is a newer addition to the city's comedy scene, offering an intimate space for stand-up shows, live podcasts, and storytelling events. With its cozy setup and welcoming atmosphere, The Glendale Room has quickly become a favorite for local comedians and fans alike. The venue regularly hosts open mic nights, showcases, and special events, providing a platform for both rising talent and established performers. If you're looking for a laid-back, no-frills comedy experience in Glendale, this is the spot to check out.
Flappers Comedy Club – Burbank: Although technically located in nearby Burbank, Flappers Comedy Club is just minutes away from Glendale and is one of the most well-known comedy venues in the area. Flappers features a mix of national headliners and local comedians, offering a full calendar of stand-up performances, open mics, and comedy competitions. The club has hosted performances by top comedians like Kevin Hart, Tiffany Haddish, and Patton Oswalt. For Glendale residents, Flappers provides easy access to some of the best stand-up comedy in the region.
Alex Theatre: While primarily known as a historic performing arts venue, the Alex Theatre in downtown Glendale occasionally hosts comedy events, bringing in big-name comedians for one-off performances. With its grand, elegant setting, the Alex Theatre offers a unique atmosphere for comedy fans looking to enjoy top-notch stand-up in a more formal venue. The theater has hosted a variety of acts, from live podcasts to stand-up comedy specials, making it a must-visit spot for comedy lovers.
Comedians to Watch in Glendale
Melissa Villaseñor: A Glendale native and former Saturday Night Live cast member, Melissa Villaseñor is known for her brilliant impressions and quirky, observational humor. Villaseñor regularly performs in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas, and her unique brand of comedy has earned her a dedicated following. With her strong Glendale roots, Villaseñor continues to be a comedian to watch, both locally and on the national stage.
Steven Briggs: A regular performer at Flappers Comedy Club and other venues around Southern California, Steven Briggs is known for his high-energy performances and hilarious storytelling. His animated style and ability to bring characters to life on stage make him a standout comedian in the Glendale area. Briggs has also gained a following online with his comedy videos, further solidifying his presence in the comedy world.
J.R. De Guzman: A Filipino-American comedian and musician, J.R. De Guzman’s unique blend of stand-up and musical comedy has made him a favorite on stages across Southern California, including Flappers and other nearby venues. His performances often blend clever punchlines with catchy tunes, offering a refreshing twist on traditional stand-up. De Guzman’s charm and wit make him a comedian to keep an eye on in the Glendale comedy scene.
Comedy Festivals in Glendale
Burbank Comedy Festival: While technically held in neighboring Burbank, the Burbank Comedy Festival is a major event for comedy fans in Glendale. This week-long festival features performances from some of the top comedians in the industry, as well as workshops, panels, and showcases for rising talent. Many shows take place at Flappers Comedy Club, and the festival provides a great opportunity for Glendale residents to experience world-class comedy just a short drive away.
Los Angeles Comedy Festival: As one of the largest comedy festivals in the region, the Los Angeles Comedy Festival often features performances at venues in and around Glendale. The festival showcases a wide range of comedic talent, from stand-up and improv to sketch comedy and live podcasts. With so much talent packed into one event, it’s a fantastic way to catch both established comedians and emerging voices in the comedy world.
Comedy Nights and Open Mics in Glendale
The Glendale Room Open Mic: The Glendale Room offers regular open mic nights, giving local comedians and aspiring performers the chance to test out new material in front of a supportive audience. These events are a great way to discover fresh talent in a laid-back, intimate setting. Whether you’re a performer or just a fan of comedy, The Glendale Room’s open mics provide a fun and engaging night out.
Flappers Comedy Club Open Mic: Just a short drive from Glendale, Flappers Comedy Club in Burbank hosts one of the most popular open mic nights in the area. Aspiring comedians from across Southern California come to test out their jokes in front of a live audience, and the club’s professional setting provides the perfect backdrop for performers to hone their craft. For Glendale residents looking to dip their toes into the world of comedy or simply enjoy a night of laughs, Flappers’ open mic nights are a great option.
While Glendale may not have as many comedy venues as neighboring Los Angeles, its proximity to major clubs and its growing scene of intimate shows make it a great spot for comedy lovers. With the iconic Alex Theatre and new venues like The Glendale Room, the city offers a unique mix of comedy experiences that combine local talent and national headliners. Whether you’re enjoying an open mic night at The Glendale Room or catching a headlining act at Flappers Comedy Club, Glendale’s comedy scene is on the rise, offering plenty of laughs for both residents and visitors alike.