Comedy in Chico: Open Mics, Improv and Stand-Up Shows

Sunday: Fish Heads at Tackle Box

Tackle Box hosts Fish Heads: Open-Mic Comedy every Sunday at 7 PM. There is no cover. Guests must be 21 or older after 9 PM.

Monday: improv with The Nerve

The Nerve puts on Monday improv shows at 7:30 PM at Blue Room Theatre. Some nights showcase students from its classes. Other nights feature a guest performer. Tickets are sold at the door.

Wednesday: open mic at Studio Inn Lounge

Studio Inn Lounge runs Open Mic Comedy on its outdoor patio every other Wednesday at 8 PM. Entry is free.

Thursday: open mic at Bella's Sports Pub

Bella's Sports Pub runs Open Mic Comedy on its outdoor patio every Thursday at 8 PM. Entry is free.

Secret shows: Don't Tell Comedy

Don't Tell Comedy runs pop-up stand-up shows in Chico, and big-name comics have played them this year. The venue stays secret until shortly before showtime. The shows sell out, so sign up for Chico show alerts to hear about the next one first.

Friday and Saturday: showcases and headliners

Weekend comedy usually comes as a ticketed show. These venues have booked comedy this fall:

• Bidwell Perk: the Dysfunctional Friday Comedy Show, which often sells out. Buy tickets in advance.
• Mulberry Station Brewing Company: Chico Comedy Underground showcases. The cover charge goes to the comedians.
• Paradise Brew Werks: Saturday comedy nights with touring headliners.
• The Westport Event Venue: solo stand-up shows.
• Chico Theater Company: touring comedians in a seated theater.
• Laxson Auditorium: national comedy tours presented by Chico Performances.

Want to get on stage?

Each open mic takes sign-ups in person 30 minutes before showtime. Find the host and add your name to the list. Sets usually run 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how many comics sign up. Hosts post schedule changes in the Chico Comedy Scene Facebook group.

For training, The Nerve teaches improv, storytelling and stand-up classes at Blue Room Theatre. Each improv class ends with a public show.