Location Comedy Underground
320 Wilshire Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90401-1315 Contact (310) 451-1800 Extra Info Pricing: Free-$10 Map and Direction Click
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From its alleyway entrance between
Third and Fourth streets to the lone bathroom (on another floor),
a low-budget ethos reigns supreme. The "Underground" in
the moniker refers to the club's basement-level space, which is
modest at best, not to mention the bare-bones stage. Throw in mostly
empty walls and stark metal ceiling beams, and the atmosphere feels
more like a creative lair than a comedy club.
While the surroundings are humble, the shows have bragging rights.
The diverse bills, including standup, sketch and improv, deliver
the goods. The Underground attracts even established talent who
are used to performing in bigger venues. With Comedy Store/Improv
regulars like Craig Coleman, Peter Spruyt and Mike Black in the
house, "I know that guy" reactions are common. And low
overhead translates to low cost--there's no drink minimum and covers
are cheap, with $10 on the high side.
Arrive early to snag a seat in the front row of couches. Unlike
most comedy clubs, you won't be subject to more teasing from comics.
Bring Quarters - The concession stand consists of one vending machine
with soda and bottled water. But bring the exact 75-cents--there's
no change machine. No Alcohol - In no way does it endorse alcohol
consumption, but the Underground doesn't exactly crack down on smuggled
liquor
