A new hub for stand-up comedy in downtown Lawrence is open, staging national headliners and promising locals.
The Comedy Club of Lawrence held its soft opening on Saturday and is preparing to open for its first full weekend this Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 6-8.
Owner Dustin Kaufman said he’d been eyeing Lawrence for a few years before the timing was right.
“There’s a good night life here, and there’s a good comedy scene here with a lot of independent comedy shows, which helps a lot, especially getting started,” Kaufman said. “I just love the town.”
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The club is at 811 New Hampshire St., which recently housed Mr. Brews Taphouse. The bar and restaurant was open from early 2024 until June of this year.
A Kansas City promoter, Kaufman also owns the Comedy Club of Kansas City. The “Host Battle” has been one of the staples there to promote local comedians since its doors opened in 2019. The Lawrence location will follow suit.
Lawrence comedians auditioned, and 20 were selected to perform at the battle set for this month.
“It’s a great way for us to really look at the local talent as a whole, and really give people who are ready and have been working hard that opportunity to get that first step in the door,” Kaufman said.
With a full in-house kitchen and bar, the Comedy Club of Lawrence is open for patrons 21 and older who present valid ID. Performers and showcases are lined up weekly.
Kaufman said the plan is to push some 11:30 p.m. shows that keep the kitchen open until 2 a.m. beginning in the new year. He hopes the club can offer a late night food and entertainment option, and cater to adults beyond the college scene.
“We’re very proud of the talent that is on this roster, and we just want people to come for a good time,” Kaufman said. “Come for a night out.”
JC Currais, a comedian and actor featured on several television networks, will headline the grand opening with shows at 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday in addition to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Moneisha Williams, a comedian from Kansas City, will take the 9:30 p.m. slot on Thursday.
Tickets for Currais’ shows cost $22 for general seating and $27 for preferred seating. Tickets for Williams’ show cost $16. They can be purchased online or at the door if available.
Check out the lineup for the next several weeks and learn more about the club at thecomedyclublfk.com.
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Maya Hodison (she/her), equity reporter, can be reached at mhodison@lawrencekstimes.com. Read more of her work for the Times here. Check out her staff bio here.
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