Why?
Well, let me put it this way. In Berlin, there’s no ocean, not much sun, not a lot of interesting nature to explore.. It’s full of creativity, diverse people and interesting stories though. And since quite a few horrible things have happened over the past three years, I decided to cheer myself up with comedy. And yes, let me tell you. It definitely helps listening to people who make fun of the same painful things that you think about. You feel less alone and realize that everybody around you is going through similar emotions and happenings, just like yourself.
In this article I want to present you some of the comedy locations in Berlin I checked out, mostly small bars and clubs that host Open-Mic sessions.
What is an Open-Mic Comedy Session?
An Open-Mic session usually takes place in a bar, club, or restaurant where anybody can take the stage for a few minutes and perform in front of the audience. It is usually hosted by someone who introduces each one of the aspiring comedians of the night. The comedians usually perform for free and see it as a training experience to test their jokes.
Here are 5 small and cool comedy events I’ve been going to in Berlin:
- Mad Monkey Comedy Club
Great small comedy club in Prenzlauer Berg. They host both English and German nights with up-and-coming and established comedians. They also have a small bar with a good selection of drinks and snacks at reasonable prices.
Danziger Str. 1, 10435 Berlin, Germany- The Wall Comedy Club
A small venue located in Friedrichshain near Boxhagener Platz. They run mostly English shows.
Grünberger Straße 84, 10245 Berlin- Lachkater Comedy at ewig Freunde
Great cosy set-up in the backroom of a nice café in Prenzlauer Berg. They run mostly German shows.
ewig freunde Raumerstraße 9, 10437 Berlin- Open Mic at Süss.War.Gestern.
Comedy shows that are hosted by two great hosts at bar and club Süß War Gestern in one of the most vibrant areas in Friedrichshain. The bar has a super cozy living room feeling to it. Nice lighting. Big windows. And you can play Super Mario.
Wühlischstr. 43, 10245 Berlin- Valentin Stüberl
The stand up comedy takes place in the back room of the bar, which has kind of a vintage setting. It is donation based and is worth a visit.
When you are keen to do your own first mic session now, I recommend to reach out to the event of your choice via Instagram. That’s how I did it myself, too, to get my first slot. :) I had my first five open mic-minutes at the "Chillig Ausrasten" Open-Mic Show at bar Arigato in Stuttgart.
Hell, was I nervous! I don’t remember when I felt so nervous and alive for the last time. It must have been ages ago. It was a super-cool experience though to stand there and make people laugh (or trying to make them laugh xD).
Did you also already have a comedy gig? Or are you planning to have one soon?
Leave your comment in the section below. I’m excited to hear from you!
Hasta la próxima :)
Your Kat