The Comedy Store: Sydney's original laughter lounge
The Comedy Store is Sydney’s original home of comedy. It first emerged as an underground venue in the meager basement of Wynyard’s Jamison Street Nightclub back in 1981, and was virtually Sydney’s only dedicated stand up comedy venue. Today it’s found more mainstream digs in the heart of Moore Park’s Entertainment Quarter.
While Sydney has more than its fair share of talented comedy acts, for some (perhaps rather telling) reason, live comedy never really exploded here, at least the same way it has in Melbourne. The Comedy Store has basically kept Sydney stand up alive single-handedly, making it a requisite visit for anyone who loves a laugh and wants to support the local scene.
It’s a charming, low key kind of venue, set in an industrial building up an unassuming flight of stairs. There’s a relaxed, mood-lit bar to lounge around in while you wait for the show to start. The drinks are reasonably priced, and you’re surrounded by posters of the stand up greats who’ve graced the Comedy Store stage – Robin Williams, Tom Arnold, Arj Barker, Carl Barron, Wil Anderson, The Umbilical Brothers, Tripod and more.
The Comedy Show hosts a wide range of talent every night of the week, showcasing the young guns of comedy and established artists alike. It’s a classic, cosy, intimate setting with a traditional red curtain stage and energetic MCs to warm up the crowd. The friendly staff are always on hand to deliver drinks to your seat while you watch the show - and for something different for your next party, they cater for private functions too.
Posted by Fiona Davies
