Comedy
Comedy
Milwaukee knows how to get a laugh. From nationally touring stand-up headliners and intimate comedy clubs to competitive improv, open mics and one of Wisconsin’s longest-running comedy festivals, there are plenty of places to catch live comedy throughout the Milwaukee area.
Milwaukee Comedy
Shows at venues throughout Milwaukee
Milwaukee Comedy is the area’s leading independent producer of live comedy, presenting hundreds of stand-up shows and events each year featuring local, regional and national performers. The company also operates The Laughing Tap and produces the annual Milwaukee Comedy Festival, a multi-day event that has been bringing comedians from across the country to Milwaukee since 2006. Most Milwaukee Comedy events are for ages 18 and older unless otherwise noted. Tickets are available online.
The Laughing Tap
761 N. Jefferson St., Milwaukee
Milwaukee’s locally owned stand-up comedy club moved to a larger downtown location in 2026, bringing its intimate comedy-club atmosphere to the heart of the city. The Laughing Tap presents national touring headliners alongside regional and local comics every week, as well as special events and a free weekly open mic. A full bar offers Wisconsin craft beer, cocktails, wine and non-alcoholic selections, with no drink minimum. Most shows are 18 and older unless otherwise noted. Box Office: (414) 616-1160.
ComedySportz Milwaukee
420 S. 1st St., Milwaukee
A Milwaukee comedy institution, ComedySportz turns improvisation into a hilarious competition. Two teams of performers battle for laughs in fast-paced improv games created on the spot using suggestions from the audience, while a referee keeps the action moving and declares a winner. In addition to its signature ComedySportz matches, CSz Milwaukee offers other improv performances, classes and workshops, corporate team-building and private entertainment. Telephone: (414) 272-8888.
Milwaukee Improv
The Corners of Brookfield, 20110 Lower Union St., Brookfield
Milwaukee Improv brings nationally touring stand-up comedians to the western suburbs in a traditional comedy-club setting. The venue features a Main Showroom and the more intimate Lab, with food and beverage service available during performances. Its calendar regularly features established national headliners as well as emerging performers and special events. Most performances are 21 and older unless otherwise specified. Telephone: (414) 928-5400.
Interchange Theater Co-op
628 N. 10th St., Milwaukee
Located in Milwaukee’s Westown neighborhood, Interchange Theater Co-op calls itself “Milwaukee’s Home for Longform Improv.” The community-owned and operated theater presents long-form improv performances, themed shows, student showcases, open improv jams and stand-up opportunities. It also offers a progressive series of improv classes for beginners through experienced performers, giving visitors the chance to do more than simply watch the show.
Milwaukee Comedy Festival
Various Milwaukee-area venues
Held annually, the Milwaukee Comedy Festival has grown into Wisconsin’s largest multi-day comedy event. Founded in 2006, the festival brings together comedians from Milwaukee and across the country for multiple days of stand-up, special events and nationally known headliners. More than 20,000 audience members have attended over the festival’s history, and alumni have gone on to appearances on major television, streaming and comedy platforms. The festival celebrates its 21st year in 2026.