Comedy in Portland
Check out plenty of in-demand comedians in a classic format for sidesplitting humor — live and in person.
Eric Gold
From stand-up comedy to improv comedy to sketch comedy Portland has any kind of comedy you may be looking for. Portland is known as the place up-and-coming comedians can cut their teeth and boasts many stages to bring you fresh, and very funny comedians, with plentiful open mic nights across the city to choose from, along with hilarious annual comedy festivals. There’s always something funny happening in Portland. Read on to learn more about the city’s vibrant comedy scene, then check out our events calendar to discover even more things to do on your next trip to Portland.
Helium
In the Central Eastside district, Helium delivers big-name talent like Saturday Night Live alumni Kevin Nealon and Jon Lovitz, other comedians you’ve seen on TV like Whitney Cummings, Chelsea Peretti, Patton Oswalt, Marc Maron, Neal Brennan, Nicole Byer, and many others. The venue, which features two full bars in addition to the main showroom, is known for its intimate setting. (Spectators are no more than 60 feet from performers.) No wonder Helium cultivates a respectful audience that is often rewarded with post-show meet-and-greets with the comics.
More Fun & Laughs
Free Live Music and Comedy in Portland
Discover a new favorite comic or musician at Portland's free concerts and comedy nights, scattered across the city and scheduled throughout the week.
Live Wire Radio
Enjoy original comedy, local music and captivating interviews at live tapings of this weekly variety show.
Niche Live Music Venues in Portland
These hidden gems are havens for jazz, punk, bluegrass, funk and more.
Kickstand Comedy
Nonprofit Kickstand Comedy got its start in the basement of a bike shop, then spent some time tucked above the Siren Theater before taking over the former home of the Brody Theater in 2019. Recognized by Paste Magazine as one of the “Country’s Best Improv Theaters,” Kickstand produces all-ages, community-based shows, flagship weekend showcases, community events and comedy classes.
ComedySportz
Looking to participate? Head to ComedySportz in Northwest Portland, which has been a longtime favorite of local comedy-lovers.
Curious Comedy Theater
The not-for-profit, volunteer-managed Curious Comedy Theater in Northeast Portland hosts community events to “improve the lives of kids, adults and seniors through the art of comedy.”
Funhouse Lounge
Head to Southeast Portland and you’ll find Funhouse Lounge, where cocktails, comedy, theater and improv converge against a background of clown-themed decor.
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Upcoming Comedy Shows
Get your laugh on with these upcoming comedy acts in Portland.
Darcelle XV’s Weekend Drag Show
Darcelle XV and Company have been entertaining audiences from all walks of life for over 50 years with Las Vegas-style cabaret revues of Glitz, Glamour and Comedy. Stop by when you are in Portland and you will be glad that you did! We have traveled the United States presenting a show that you have to…
Portland Sketch Comedy Festival
The Portland Sketch Comedy Festival began in the summer of 2017, and each year showcased Portland's bright and beautiful sketch comedy scene and brought the smartest and freshest sketch comedy performances from all over the country to Portland. The Siren Theater is thrilled to return to the festival for its sixth year. This year brings…
SPIRIT MANSION
Ready to embark on a spine-tingling adventure like no other? Step into the paranormal world with a live stage show while sipping cocktails. Enter a venue that's been eerily transformed. Encounter lingering spirits. Dive into four gripping stories of lost souls and restless specters. Enjoy an exquisite selection of cursed cocktails curated to match the haunting tales. Spirit Mansion is…
Aries Spears
A true comedic heavyweight, "MADtv" standout Aries Spears always comes loaded with the best impressions in the game and a unique take on everything from sports to current events. Spears released his latest special, "Aries Spears: Comedy Blueprint," in 2016.
Sunday Funday
Sunday Funday is BACK this May for another round of hysterical improvisational performances. Come and support students — both new and seasoned improvisers — as well as other notable Portland performers as they show you all kinds of talents, skills, and abilities. The show will feature demos and sets from all three levels of classes,…
Closet Cases
A Queer Comedy Storytelling Showcase. Comedians take the stage and share personal stories that don't fit into a classic tight fives. Come laugh, cry, cringe, and cheer with these funny and often heartwarming stories from within the LGBTQ+ community
It's Gonna Be Okay
It's Gonna Be Okay is a free WEEKLY stand-up comedy show EVERY Monday. The show showcases the best comedians in Portland, along with national acts. Every Monday at 8 pm in the Tap Room 21 and up only
Comedy Darlings
Comedy Darlings is a FREE comedy show every Monday located in North Portland at Bar Salut Cherie hosted by Danelle Porter and Erica Figueroa with some of the funniest comedians around. Make sure to follow on Instagram and Facebook @comedydarlings to stay current on all upcoming lineups.
Bard Bingo at Wonderwood Springs
Bard Bingo at Portland Artist Mike Bennett's Wonderwood Springs is a lively bingo event hosted by a traveling bard's musical musings. Held every Tuesday night, this event features four exciting rounds with cards priced at $5 each. It's cash-only, offering chances to win various prizes such as original artwork, stickers, gift cards, lawn signs,…
Love, Shakespeare
Witness the Magic of Unscripted Shakespeare. Step into the offbeat world of Love, Shakespeare, where seasoned Portland comedians attempt something audacious: performing a fully improvised Elizabethan based on your suggestions. Each show is an unpredictable tribute to Shakespeare's comedy, filled with ridiculous twists and spontaneous delights. Follow a merry band of players — former buddies of…
Matt Rife
Matthew Steven Rife is an American comedian and actor. Rife is best known for his self-produced comedy specials, Only Fans, Matthew Steven Rife and Walking Red Flag, as well as his 2023 Netflix special Natural Selection and previous recurring role on the sketch improv comedy and rap show Wild 'n Out.
Live Wire with Luke Burbank
Join Emmy award-winning host Luke Burbank for the taping of Live Wire, the fastest-growing entertainment show on public radio. With a late-night stride, an Oscar Wilde wit, and the charisma of Ferris Bueller grand marshaling a parade. Music, comedy, and conversation live and packed with surprises.
Bangerz Comedy
Portland comics Bjorn RG and Eliza Butler host this weekly show at Neighbors Taproom with curated lineups of local and nationally touring comedians. 21+
Capacity Comedy Open Mic
Capacity Comedy presents a fun new Open mic with a special featured local comedian to close out the night. Capacity is a fun cocktail style bar that supports local musicians, comedians and DJ's.
Conner O'Malley
Conner O'Malley presents new research on Comedy products. He showcases newly developed Comedy technologies, including sustainable comedy technology that will innovate the global digital comedy maker space with new videos, stand-up, and much much more. Conner O'Malley is a comedian originally from Chicago, Illinois. He has written for HBO’s "How to with John Wilson" and…
The Murder Mystery Co. Presents: Death of a Gangster
Prepare to unravel the secrets of a thrilling murder mystery, where every twist and turn leads you closer to uncovering the truth. Put your sleuthing skills to the test as you examine clues and mingle with suspects, all while enjoying a delectable three-course meal. But beware — you might find yourself a suspect in this…
Becky Robinson
Originally from Portland, Oregon, Becky Robinson is an LGBTQ+ LA-based comedian, writer, actor and voice-over star. You may also know her as the “Entitled Housewife”, the outspoken viral golf character Becky created to help spread laughter during the pandemic. Her explosively unique character antics and viral videos have racked up millions of views and fans…
Michelle Wolf
Wolf has quickly become one of the most influential voices in the comedy landscape, with the Village Voice calling her “the voice comedy needs right now” and The Daily Beast declaring, “Michelle Wolf is the future of stand-up comedy.” Her most recent Netflix special, MICHELLE WOLF: JOKE SHOW, received high praise and her first hour-long…
Triple D
Calling all adventurers. Join Dungeon Master Sin Cere as he leads a cast of drag performers through an exciting one-shot Dungeons and Dragons campaign. Part drag show, part improv, all fun, you won't want to miss Triple D.
Mommie Dearest with Donatella Nobody
“No wire hangers!” celebrate Mother’s Day with a screening of this often unhinged and highly quotable camp classic. Hosted by Portland’s fabulous Donatella Nobody, get ready to clutch your pearls and pay homage to the ultimate portrayal of maternal complexity. ON STAGE: Donatella Nobody Donatella Nobody (the drag alter ego of local theater designer and…
Chroma Comedy Fest: 40 Year Puberty
In this hilarious and poignant show, irresistible trans storyteller Ti Malik brings you on his pursuit of manhood – from God, women and chest binders to the depths of a second puberty. This show delivers a fresh perspective in a delightful and thoughtful package that is not to be missed. The 40 Year Old…
Chroma Comedy Fest: Malik and Rasheed
CHROMA COMEDY FEST HEADLINERS: MALIK and RASHEED Malik and Rasheed are seasoned improvisers who have mastered the art of making audiences roar with laughter. With 11 years of partnership under their belts, their comedic synergy is unmatched. Their journey began as part of the esteemed troupe, Casually Dope, where they cultivated their unique brand of humor and…
Chroma Comedy Fest: Mark Kendall Critical Race Theory for Kindergarteners
Chroma Comedy Fest: Mark Kendall Critical Race Theory for Kindergarteners with opener Maya Haughton Critical Race Theory for Kindergartners is a one-person sketch comedy show. Get ready for snacks, naps, and rethinking power structures. Critical Race Theory for Kindergartners will premiere at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, GA, and is the theater's inaugural James Anderson…
Chroma Comedy Fest: Regular Tho and Friends
Regular Tho is an exploration of Blackness, absurdity, and vulnerability. Using their love of TV, pop culture, and THE Culture, they create wild worlds with relatable situations and vice versa. Markis Gallashaw and Freddy Boyd have traveled the country doing comedy and joined forces in Atlanta to create the greatest duo of all time. Or just two…
Chroma Comedy Fest: Broke Gravy and Friends
Broke Gravy Is Back at Curious Comedy Broke Gravy uses improv comedy and storytelling to discover the truth between the blurry lines of the daily grind. As three Black Americans, they utilize their unique voices to spark thoughtful conversations on and off comedy stages. Through candid dialogue, they exchange their experiences with those of the…
Things I Hide From Dad
A multi-sensory storytelling show about hiding and eventually trying to face the monsters in your closet. Come see the Portland debut of the show critics are calling “a multi-sensory masterclass in capturing an audience's attention, that enchants with an entertaining, relatable and ultimately uplifting tale.” From the five-time winner of The Moth, “Things I Hide…
Showdown
The Hunger Games of Comedy. Six players enter the stage. Only one will survive. Curious Comedy Showdown pits Portland’s finest comedians against one another in competitive improv comedy cage matches that will make you laugh until you cry. Armed with only razor-sharp wit and your suggestions, the players must create fast-paced and hilarious scenes on the…
Celeste Barber
Hailed as the “Australian Queen of Comedy”, Celeste’s original celebrity parody Instagram account has attracted over 8.1 million followers. In 2019 she released her best-selling book Challenge Accepted and she was also seen on the 2019 Showtime special of the same name. In 2020, she won the AACTA (The Australian Academy of Cinema and Television…
Chroma Comedy Fest: 3Peat and Regular Tho
Chroma Comedy Festival Headliners: 3Peat with Opening Act: Regular Tho 3Peat is a critically acclaimed group of improv/sketch/standup artists who met while performing and teaching at iO and Second City in Chicago. Since their time in Chicago, the cast has continued touring together at festivals nationwide. Together and individually, they have gone on to work…
Brad Upton
Brad Upton is Dry Bar Comedy’s most popular act with over 160 million views. He used to tour with the late, great Joan Rivers and is a past winner of the Las Vegas Comedy Festival. Don’t miss this show!!!
Remembering Gene Wilder with Clancy Kramer
Sometimes the best cure for sadness is a good laugh. Remember the comedy genius and wicked talent of beloved actor Gene Wilder with this new documentary. Portland comedienne Clancy Kramer will introduce the film with a short comedy set.
Chroma Comedy Fest: 3Peat and Friends
Chroma Comedy Festival Headliners: 3Peat with Maya Haughton and We Should Start a Podcast 3Peat is a critically acclaimed group of improv/sketch/standup artists who met while performing and teaching at iO and Second City in Chicago. Since their time in Chicago, the cast has continued touring together at festivals nationwide. Together and individually, they have gone on to work…
That's So 90s Variety Show
BOOYAH. Bust out the butterfly clips and bucket hats because the 90s are back, baby. Join this fun-filled variety show featuring talented acts showcasing the music, movies, celebrities, and pop culture from this bomb diggity decade. Throughout the show, there will be trivia contests, a 90’s fashion show, top 10 lists, a costume contest, and…
Young Frankenstein with Clancy Kramer // 50th Anniversary
Join a monstrously marvelous evening and celebrate the 50th anniversary of Young Frankenstein. Dust off your lab coats, grab your Igor-inspired hump, and get ready to electrify your funny bone. Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder are at the top of their comedic game in this tale of the madcap antics of Dr. Frankenstein and his hilariously dysfunctional…
Chroma Comedy Fest: All Stars
Join the close-out of the show with an All-Star mash-up of players from headlining ensembles. Last year's jam was a ridiculous amount of fun. This year's will be too – and then some. 3Peat is a critically acclaimed group of improv/sketch/standup artists who met while performing and teaching at iO and Second City in Chicago. Since their…
Drag Brunch at The Pharmacy
Join hostess Devlin Lynn Phoenixx and her cast of talented queens for a Sunday brunch experience you won’t soon forget. Your ticket includes admission to the show, your meal, AND your first mimosa. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available. So grab your friends and get down to The Pharmacy for a spectacularly fun time.
Magic Tea Party
In this live Dungeons & Dragons show, comedians and performers take to the stage to play some theatre games, share some jokes, and play some D&D.
Alok
Alok (they/them) is an internationally acclaimed poet, comedian, public speaker, and actor. ALOK’s literary works “Beyond the Gender Binary,” “Femme in Public,” and “Your Wound, My Garden,” have garnered global recognition. Their dynamic presence has captivated audiences in over 40 countries, with sold-out shows at venues including Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Kennedy Center for…
Shane Mauss
Journey into the mind of a psychedelic astronaut with a consciousness-expanding comedy experience. At the intersection of science, humor, and psychedelics comes "A Better Trip," the latest work from Shane Mauss. Originally a residency at AREA15 in Las Vegas — this hilariously heady event highlights Shane’s personal psychedelic experiences and examines the history, science, and culture…
Martin Amini
Martin Amini is a stand-up comic based in Los Angeles, California, born and raised in Silver Spring, Maryland. Martin’s stand-up material touches on what its like growing up mixed in America coming from a Bolivian and Iranian background. After making his tv debut on Laff Tracks on TruTv, Martin filmed his stand up special “Son…
Party Girl Bingo hosted by Violet Hex
ON SCREEN: Party Girl 1995. Directed by Daisy von Scherler Mayer. Runtime: 94 minutes. Rated R. Mary (Parker Posey) is a hip 20-something and hostess extraordinaire known for organizing the most trendy and outrageous parties on the New York club scene. When her roommate moves out, she stages an illegal rave to cover her rent,…
Minority Retort: The Grande Finale
For nearly a decade, Minority Retort has been Portland's premier stand-up comedy showcase featuring Black and Brown comedians and a fixture on the Portland comedy scene. Now… it’s enough already. Join The Siren Theater and celebrate Minority Retort’s homegoing with an all-star lineup of some of the show’s favorites from over the years: Nathan Brannon,…
No Filter Improv
Fuse Theater's New Year's Resolution for 2024 is to DO MORE IMPROV. What's yours? Join No Filter at the Back Door Theater every fourth Saturday of the month for some late-night laughs featuring rotating themes and cast members. Have requests? Just @ us on the socials. Big thanks to Fuse Theatre Ensemble for ensuring no Resolution…
Friendly Feuds w/ Imani Denae
Hold onto your butts, City of Roses, because everybody’s favorite, laugh-filled evening of comedy, trivia, and goofy fun, FRIENDLY FEUDS w/ Imani Denae, is making a triumphant return to Funhouse Lounge. This one and only, one of a kind knockoff game show is back and ready to party with an evening positively packed full of…
Two Dykes and a Mic
“Two Dykes and a Mic” is a weekly comedy podcast and internationally touring live show. Comedians and IRL BFFs McKenzie Goodwin and Rachel Scanlon host the world’s greatest and gayest show of all time. Get your nose ready because you’re about to snort queer joy and laugh your gay cans off Hosts Rachel Scanlon and…
Brincos Dieras
Brincos Dieras is “the most irreverent clown in all of Latin America”. Dressed in his signature clown costume, complete with makeup and a flamboyant suit, he draws thousands of fans to his engaging live performances. An international sensation, the comic hails from El Paso, Texas, and performs on stages across the United States and Mexico….
DINOSAUR
An electrifying ensemble of improv comedy's brightest stars, including Paul Scheer, Rob Huebel, and Jason Mantzoukas, to cities nationwide for a must-see show where every performance promises an explosion of unscripted hilarity and genius. Catch "DINOSAUR," the improv phenomenon that's captivating audiences from Los Angeles to cities all over the United States for a special…
Are You Garbage: Thru the Roof Tour
Comedians H. Foley and Kevin Ryan interrogate fellow comedians to determine whether or not they are garbage people. Kevin Ryan and H. Foley bring you a night of Are You Garbage, featuring stand-up comedy and a chance for you to ask your Garbage questions.
Josh Wolf
Josh Wolf is a comedian, actor, and NY Times Bestselling author best known for his work as a round table guest and writer on E!’s “Chelsea Lately” and “After Lately.” Throughout 2013-2014, Wolf hosted “Shark After Dark” which aired during the ultra-popular “Shark Week” on The Discovery Channel. Josh was then cast as the host…
Goodness the Comedy Show
Goodness is a show that brings the best stand-up comedy in Portland to the incredible Laurelhurst Club. Tickets are only $10, with even more affordable drinks. (21+)