Austin’s 5 Most Hilarious Live Shows & Open-Mic Spots
Larry D. Moore, Esthers follies austin tx 2014, CC BY 4.0
Austin's comedy scene boasts five can't-miss spots: The Absolute Show’s boundary-pushing late-night comedy, Cap City’s Tuesday Open Mic where tomorrow's stars develop, The Creek and The Cave’s diverse lineup, Esther’s Follies’ iconic blend of vaudeville and politics, and the star-studded Moontower Comedy Festival. You'll find everything from raw, unfiltered performances to polished acts in intimate venues and historic theaters. Each venue offers its own unique flavor of Austin's thriving comedy culture.
The Absolute Show: Late-Night Comedy Without Rules
Where else can you find a late-night comedy experience that deliberately tosses the rulebook out the window? Hosted by Lukas McCrary at The Creek and The Cave, The Absolute Show delivers raw, unfiltered comedy with zero pretension. Unlike polished talk shows, this event thrives on unbound creativity and intentionally breaks from convention. You'll witness boundary-pushing performances in an intimate setting where spontaneity reigns supreme. At just $10 online ($15 at the door), you're getting Austin's most daring comedy showcase without breaking the bank. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime at 611 E 7th St, with full food and drink service available. With drink specials often featured, The Absolute Show ensures your evening is complete with both entertainment and refreshments. Follow @AbsoluteShowUSA on Instagram to stay updated on this uniquely unkempt, extravagant comedy experience that's redefining Austin's late-night scene.
Cap City's Tuesday Open Mic: Where Future Stars Are Born
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If you're looking to witness comedy history in the making, Cap City's Tuesday Open Mic stands as Austin's premier incubator for comedic talent. Every Tuesday at 7:30 PM, the intimate Red Room transforms into a talent scouting hotspot where newcomers and veterans alike test their freshest material. What makes this free weekly event essential to Austin's comedy scene:
- It's a true community-building experience where comics network and develop together
- You'll sit within 60 feet of performers who might headline tomorrow's biggest shows
- The supportive atmosphere encourages risk-taking that refines raw talent into polished acts
- Comics are advised to prepare at least 3 minutes of material before taking the stage.
Check the online lineup posted ahead of time to secure your spot at this launching pad for Austin's next comedy stars.
The Creek and The Cave: Austin's Comedy Home Base
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A transplant with deep New York roots, The Creek and The Cave established itself as an Austin comedy home base after landing on East 7th Street in 2021. Taking over the former Barracuda space, this venue delivers a diverse comedy lineup week after week. You'll find everything from "The Absolute Show's" unfiltered late-night comedy to Saturday showcases that blend stand-up with drag performances. For aspiring comics, Thursday's midnight "Word Up!" open mic provides a welcoming stage, though you'll want to arrive early to secure a spot. This inclusive establishment takes pride in fostering a comedy environment where a wide range of voices can thrive. With tickets typically running $10-15 and shows that can run late, The Creek excels at engaging community events while hosting both local talent and touring names.
Esther's Follies: Musical Comedy with a Texas Twist
Standing as Austin's longest-running comedy institution, Esther's Follies has entertained locals and visitors alike since 1977 with its unique blend of vaudeville, political satire, and magic. What began in a space that previously housed pool tables evolved into a cornerstone of Sixth Street culture, where you'll experience topical humor that's constantly refreshed to reflect current events. Founded by Shannon Sedwick and Michael Shelton, the show was named for classic film star Esther Williams, and it has been part of Austin’s nightlife for decades. What makes Esther's truly special:
- Interactive audience engagement through large windows facing Sixth Street's bustling nightlife
- Innovative magic and illusions by performers like Ray Anderson that seamlessly blend with comedy routines
- Weekly-updated political sketches and musical numbers that tackle everything from Texas politics to pop culture phenomena
The venue's intimate setting creates an immersive experience where you're not just watching a show—you're part of Austin's living comedy legacy.
Moontower Comedy Festival: Austin's Premier Comedy Extravaganza
Established in 2011, the Moontower Comedy Festival has grown into Austin's premier comedy extravaganza, drawing both comedic legends and rising stars to the heart of Texas each April. You'll experience a citywide lineup across walkable downtown venues during a laugh-heavy run that typically stretches beyond a single weekend. The festival growth trajectory has been impressive, evolving from a local collaboration into one of North America's most significant comedy events. With headliners over the years spanning major national names and breakout favorites lighting up venues from intimate clubs to the magnificent Paramount Theatre, you'll find shows matching any comedic taste. Festival director Maggie Hoffman has highlighted Austin’s arts-and-culture energy as a key reason the event continues to attract top talent year after year. The Paramount's year-round programming continues the laughs beyond the festival, maintaining Austin's reputation as a comedy haven where both established names and tomorrow's breakout stars share the spotlight.
