The Vancouver, BC Comedy Scene
Stand-up comedy has a rich history in Vancouver, with a thriving live-comedy scene that offers something for everyone. From intimate venues to large-scale festivals, this vibrant city has it all. Vancouver is a unique place in and of itself, but within the comedy world, it's even more unique. For a city of nearly 2.5 million people in the metro area, there are next to no permanent, traditional comedy clubs. Instead, Instead, it's more common to see pop-up live comedy shows in various and rotating venues throughout the city.
One of the few traditional stand-up comedy clubs in Vancouver is Rick Bronson's House of Comedy. Located in the suburb of New Westminster, the House of Comedy is known for its intimate setting and its focus on up-and-coming comedians. The club features a mix of local and national talent, with shows most nights of the week.
For those looking for a more alternative comedy experience, the Biltmore Cabaret is a must-visit. This historic venue has been a staple of the Vancouver comedy scene for decades, and it continues to host some of the most cutting-edge comedians around. The Biltmore is a multi-purpose cabaret theatre that boasts an eclectic lineup that includes everything from stand-up comedy and improv to burlesque and variety shows.
In addition to comedy clubs, Vancouver is also home to a number of comedy festivals that take place throughout the year. The most prominent of these is the Vancouver International Comedy Festival, which takes place in the fall and features a lineup of comedians from around the world. The festival includes stand-up comedy shows, improv, sketch comedy, and more. Other festivals include the Northwest Comedy Festival and the Just for Laughs Northwest.