Comic Strip Live

Comic Strip Live was born on a Monday night in May of 1975 by Richard Tienken, John McGowan and Robert Wachs. We found the original and current location the very next day. The plan was to gut the existing bar and build additional space in the backyard. Building plans were submitted and the day before their approval, a fatal fire at the Blue Angel Cabaret resulted in a moratorium on all building permits. Thirteen months later, The Comic Strip opened as the safest club in New York City having complied with all the new fire and safety codes.

Originally the Comic Strip featured comics, singers, magicians and novelty acts. We soon realized that stand up comedy was the only way to go and we've been a comedy Showcase club ever since. New York Magazine calls Comic Strip Live "the most expertly booked club in the city."

Our first big star was box office legend Eddie Murphy. The first time Eddie came into the club, he was only 18 and had a little too much attitude. A few days later, he apologized and we gave him a shot. Saturday Night Live soon followed and the rest is show biz history. Eddie in turn discovered Chris Rock at The Comic Strip one night. Rolling Stone magazine recently described Rock's career as "ballistic." Like so many acts, television Superstar Jerry Seinfeld worked for many years at the Comic Strip. Everybody called Seinfeld "Doctor Comedy" because there wasn't a bit Jerry couldn't fix. Paul Reiser was asked by a fellow Comic Strip performer to accompany him to a film audition. The Director asked Paul if he wanted to read for the part as well. He did and got the part! That film was "Diner" and it launched Paul's illustrious career.

The Comic Strip is a showcase club. The beauty of the showcase format is that it encourages performers to consistently write, perform and perfect new material. Every couple of months we have our "Audition Lottery." Traditionally held on a Monday, the lottery attracts aspiring performers from all over the world. Each person gets a number from 1 to 8, which represents their position on audition night. If they do well, our talent coordinator personally passes them. "Passing" means an act can fill regular spots on the schedule. As acts continue to grow, they are often featured in "Showcases" produced especially for television agents and executives. The Comic Strip is the longest running showcase comedy club in THE WORLD!

More major stars have started their careers at the Comic Strip than any other venue in the world. Some legendary examples include: Adam Sandler, Carol Leifer, the late Dennis Wolfberg, Colin Quinn, Susie Essman, Jimmy Brogan, Joe Bolster, Nancy Parker, Larry Miller, Rich Hall, Liz Winstead, Walli Collins, Angel Salazar, Sarah Silverman, Jim Breuer, Caroline Rhea, John Henson, Phil Nee, Joe Vega, Ian Bagg, Scott Blakeman, John Bush, Red Johnny and the Round Guy, Judy Gold, William Stephenson, Kelly Dixon, Chris Kis, J.R. Havlan, Louis CK, John Ridley, Chris Arcudi, D.C. Benny, Bill McCarty, Starla Muraz, DF Sweedler and many, many more!