This is a Laughing Matter: Comedy in Durham

While we may be facing the doldrums of winter, what better way to lighten our spirits than to take in (or perform) some comedy. Durham hosts its fair share of options when it comes to both professional and amateur comedians and also offers opportunities to try your own hand at being funny. From stand-up to improv, open mics to nationally recognized acts, tickle your funny bone this year in the Bull City.

Learn the Art of Making People Laugh

Want to push yourself in 2023 and try something new? Want to get more comfortable with being in front of people? Want to meet awesome people and have a hella fun time learning how to be present? Then check out these Durham options for learning the art of comedy.

 Mettlesome Theater (800 Taylor St, Ste 9-156, 27701):

While this crew may be new to their space at Golden Belt, around the corner from Hi-Wire, Mettlesome has been operating in Durham for several years, most recently out of the now defunct Mothership behind Motorco. If you want to learn the skill of improv, these are the folks you want to see. They have multiple levels of improv, from 101 to 301 and then a “Secret Society” for improv grads who want to participate in more regular performances. They even offer scholarships and work-trade options if finances are a concern. Plus their regular live shows of their in-house projects give you so many options to join this fun community.

On a personal note – I took improv classes several years ago with some of the teachers from Mettlesome and I met my now-husband around the same time (he came to one of my class’s showcase nights). I’m not saying you’ll meet the love of your life if you take these classes, but sometimes learning to say “yes, and” can open up doors in your life.

 Open Mind Improvisation (5502 Turkey Farm Rd, 27705):

Improv doesn’t always have to be about making people laugh. At Open Mind Improvisation, the trainers can help people, both personally and in their work lives, improve communication skills and confidence. Professionally trained actors and educators make up this Durham and Raleigh-based group. Their Durham location at Movie Makers Studios offers Improv for Life classes on Tuesdays from 7-9:30pm starting Jan 17 th or Sundays from 2-4:30pm, which started on Jan 8 th , but don’t worry: this is a continuous class open to new students, so reach out if you want to join in!

Laugh at (or Become) an Amateur Comedian

Whether or not you take a class in comedy, you are welcome to try your hand at getting a laugh from a crowd at one of the many open mics across Durham. Or if you just get a kick out of grabbing a drink and enjoying a laugh that works as well. Pretty much any open mic will allow folks to try out some stand-up comedy (except The Pinhook…we see you!), but to guide you toward the events geared toward comedians, here is a list of comedy-specific open mics and shows:

• Every Monday: Comedy Show followed by Open Mic at Devine’s (904 West Main St, 27704)

• First Thursday: The Jam (open improv) at Mettlesome Theater (800 Taylor St, Ste 9-156, 27701)

• Third Wednesdays: Comedy Showcase at Bull City Ciderworks (305 S Roxboro St, 27701)

• Every Friday: Stand-up Comedy Open Mic at Durty Bull (206 Broadway St, Ste 104, 27701)

• Third Saturdays: Stand-up Comedy or Improv Acts at Moon Dog Meadery (1104 Broad St, Ste C, 27705)

• Third Saturdays: The Jam (open improv) at Mettlesome Theater (800 Taylor St, Ste 9-156, 27701)

Take the Show on the Road

Have yall taken part in Bull City Laughs (901 Fayetteville St, #106, 27701), Durham’s first and only comedy history bus tour?

While this option may not be available until March, it’s worth looking into and booking for future dates before they sell out. With multiple comedy tour options, including a brunch

and bubbly tour, PG family-friendly tour, and an R-rated option, Bull City Laughs pairs the educational experience of a history tour with the hilarious brilliance of comedian and co-founder Brandon. There’s even rumor that they’ll be partnering with Discover Durham to bring the 3-hour Ale Trail Tour to visit local breweries, meaderies, distilleries, or wineries throughout your comedic journey. Have an upcoming visit with out-of-town guests? Looking for a new perspective on our lovely Bull City? Support this Black- and veteran-owned business by booking your tour today.

Watch the Pros

Durham boasts two premier venues that draw world renowned comedy acts, which make for wonderful date nights:’

 Carolina Theatre (309 W Morgan St, 27701):

Durham’s historic theatre, which shows films and hosts live performances, has an incredible line-up of comedy acts coming in the first quarter of 2023. And with tickets often available in the $30 price range, plus affordable popcorn and local beer at the concession stand, you can usually have a fantastic night out for relatively cheap. Pro tip – buy tickets in advance from the box office if you’re downtown to avoid convenience fees.

Here are some of the awesome upcoming acts:

o 1/19: Giggly Squad Live

o 1/21: JB Smoove

o 1/26: Noel Miller

o 2/3: John Waters

o 2/9: Nick Swardson

o 2/10: Demetri Martin

o 3/3: Nikki Glaser

o 3/4: Felipe Esparza

o 3/9: Miranda Sings featuring Colleen Ballinger

o 3/19: Sarah Silverman

o 3/24: The Second City Swipes Right

o 3/28: Sam Morril

 DPAC (123 Vivian St, 27701):

Now you want to have a swanky, yet hilarious night out, you head to DPAC this year since they, too have a wild line-up of fresh and veteran comedians. Not a bad view in the house and you can grab dinner nearby at American Tobacco Campus to complete the evening. Pro tip – you can also buy DPAC tickets at their box office if you’re downtown before the event to save on Ticketmaster fees. Check out these acts coming to DPAC this year, many of whom have already added second, third, and FOURTH shows due to popular demand (aka get your tix ASAP!):

o 1/27 – 1/28: Jim Gaffigan (four shows)

o 3/8: Trixie and Katya

o 3/24 – 3/27: Trevor Noah (four shows)

o 4/1: Taylor Tomlinson (two shows)

o 4/20: David Spade

o 4/23: Bill Maher

Here’s hoping 2023 will be the year your horizons are expanded and you get to laugh and smile more with your loved ones. Now get out there and go enjoy something funny!