Comic Strip Live

The Comic Strip Live is one of the oldest and foremost stand-up comedy clubs in New York City. Located at 1568 Second Avenue, between 81st and 82nd Streets, it has remained at the same location since it opened its doors in June 1976. Comics, singers, magicians and novelty acts were originally featured at the club, but the venue soon streamlined its shows to focus solely on stand-up comedy. Eddie Murphy, Jerry Seinfeld, Paul Reiser, Adam Sandler and Chris Rock were among the legendary comics who performed at the Comic Strip early on in their careers.

Primarily a showcase club, the Comic Strip encourages performers to consistently write, perform and perfect new material. Once a year the club holds an "Audition Lottery," where aspiring newcomers line up to be given a date to try out their routine on "Audition Night" Mondays. If they do well, the club's talent coordinator passes them. "Passing" means getting to fill a regular spot on the club's schedule. Superstar Jerry Seinfeld told Liz Smith of the New York Post, "When you are a kid starting out as a stand-up comic, you don't dream about the cover of Time Magazine. You dream about the 9 o'clock spot on Saturday night at the Comic Strip."

Notable Alumni