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If you’re bored with movies, restaurants and bowling on Friday nights in Washington, D.C., venture out to a comedy club or comedy show at a theater instead. Tickets are often $25 or less per person, and you may see an up-and-coming comedian or an already well-known actor or actress.
Washington, D.C. has some of the nation’s best improvisational comedy clubs, where instead of performing a set routine, comedians act in response to the audience. If you’re tired of the same-old same-old, an improvisational act guarantees something fresh and funny every time.
In addition to improv comedy, D.C. also boasts excellent political humor, and you just might find yourself sitting next to a politician at the show. Check out the list of venues below if you want to shake up your weekend routine, but consider yourself warned: At any of these clubs or venues, only the brave dare to sit in the front rows.
DC Improv
What: DC Improv features national touring headliners, local celebrities, two showrooms and a full restaurant and bar. Or, join the comedy school and take classes for all skill levels on improvisational comedy, stand-up comedy, sketch writing, the comedy business and more.
Where: 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20036
Washington Improv Theater
What: Washington Improv Theater, or WIT, says its three aspects are shows, classes and community. Shows are unpredictable works of drama and comedy, and improve classes aim to increase awareness, skills and confidence for those who participate.
Where: 1835 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009
Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company
What: If you want to take in a comedy show that may have never been seen before, Woolly Mammoth is the place for you. This theater company is a national leader in developing new plays; some are world premieres and some are just making their Washington, D.C. debut. However, Woolly Mammoth is not for the faint of heart, as the company prides itself on releasing edgy, often daring works.
Where: 641 D St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20004
Source
What: An experimental theater lab of sorts, Source hosts a variety of artists and performing arts groups. The 150-seat black box is intimate and flexible, and four theater companies, including Constellation Theatre Company, DC Arts and Humanities Education Collaborative and The In Series, rotate using the space.
Where: 1835 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009
Rendezvous Restaurant
What: This restaurant and lounge has comfortable vintage couches, good music and a laid-back vibe, but what gets the crowd going at Rendezvous is its improv nights, which happen to have no cover charge. Locals love the weekend DJs, drink specials and roomy, rarely-crowded interior.
Where: 2226 18th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009
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You can sit anywhere you want at a Washington Improv Theater (WIT) show. The audience will provide some simple information to start the show, then the performers will make you laugh. No audience ridicule involved. Shows are $10.