When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
RISE Comedy - Denver Comedy, Improv, Stand Up and Sketch - Full Bar
Why RISE Comedy - Denver Comedy, Improv, Stand Up and Sketch - Full Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
RISE Comedy in Denver has established itself as a vibrant hub for laughter and social connection, making it an excellent place to meet up with friends. Located in the heart of LoDo at 1260 22nd Street, the venue offers an engaging mix of improv comedy, stand-up, sketch, musical comedy, and variety shows that run multiple nights a week. Its 80-seat main theater provides an intimate setting where audiences can enjoy original, interactive, and unscripted performances that guarantee an unpredictable and highly entertaining night out. Beyond the comedy, RISE Comedy features a well-stocked full bar, enhancing the social atmosphere and making it easy to relax and enjoy the evening. The club's programming includes themed shows like “Hit and Run: Musical Improv,” open-mic nights, and specialty improv teams, all predominantly showcasing talented local and in-house performers. This focus on community talent results in affordable ticket prices and a diverse range of comedic styles and experience levels, ensuring there is something for everyone. With a history dating back to 2008, including its earlier incarnation as Voodoo Comedy Playhouse since 2011, RISE Comedy has become synonymous with creative, interactive comedy in Denver. The venue also offers improv classes and workshops for those interested in exploring or honing their own comedic skills. Whether gathering for a casual night out or celebrating a special occasion, RISE Comedy offers an inviting environment full of laughter, creativity, and camaraderie.
Here's what people think of RISE Comedy - Denver Comedy, Improv, Stand Up and Sketch - Full Bar
As of recent, RISE Comedy - Denver Comedy, Improv, Stand Up and Sketch - Full Bar holds a 4.6-star rating based on 635 reviews.
Reviews of RISE Comedy highlight the club's consistent ability to provide a lively and entertaining experience that appeals to a wide range of comedy fans. Many patrons appreciate the club's commitment to showcasing local talent through its improv and sketch performances, offering a fresh, community-driven take on comedy that feels authentic and engaging. Positive reviews often emphasize the welcoming atmosphere, the quality and variety of shows, and the friendly, attentive staff. Guests also enjoy the full bar, which complements the comedy shows and enhances the overall experience. Additionally, many reviewers mention the affordability of tickets compared to other comedy venues, making it accessible for regular visits. Negative comments are relatively few but tend to focus on challenges such as limited parking availability, especially on Colorado Rockies game days, and occasional variability in show quality due to the improvised nature and the use of newer performers. Some patrons may find later showtimes or weekend crowds a bit overwhelming, though this is often balanced by the energetic vibe of the club. Overall, the review consensus is positive, underlining RISE Comedy's role as a cornerstone of Denver's live comedy scene that delivers memorable, laughter-filled nights with a personal touch.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Christina Brennan
After an exhausting couple of days of moving, I walked into the Rise open mic last night and immediately felt at home. Emily and Jen are always so welcoming and do such a great job keeping the show moving and creating space for local and traveling comics (whether they are funny or not). The rest of the staff is also incredible. Cute showroom. One of my favorite places to perform and just enjoy comedy!!
Michael Garcia
Open mic host was so wack. First they started late, then asked everyone to make a pledge to remember this is a safe space. Proceeded to bump everyone for people who paid to take classes. My set I made a joke calling the host the “most beautiful linebacker” I ever seen and she proceeded to be visibly upset and allowed her hurt ego to bring down the vibe. Instead of roasting me or being a professional comedian, she made sure everyone felt her anger. Called me out for “body shaming” and said it was lazy writing even though I had that whole room laughing. Just a thin skin comedian not cut out for this world of comedy. Buddy I met posted the review of getting bumped before my set and the club called him out for my actions. No accountability and a joke of a venue for allowing such a softie to perform. Everyone I know in Denver hasn’t even heard of this club and I can see why. Wack spot.
Christina Kleemann
I go to Rise almost every Wednesday. It’s a staple of the Denver comedy scene for locals and out-of-towners. It’s also a super fun vibe and Emily is a great host! Levi Elmore - since you’ve been doing comedy for 12 years, you should be the first to know that sometimes the host doesn’t always go in list order, and just because you sign up as #12 on the list, doesn’t mean that you’re going to go 12th. Rather than complaining about the fact that you didn’t go up within the first half hour of being there, maybe instead, you could try to watch other comics, and observe how they perform on stage because you can learn so much from them. Also, in my experience, if you have a time constraint & can’t wait for 2 hours, let the host know. They’re typically more than happy to accommodate. It’s also super disrespectful that your friend chose to body shame the host and say that she has a “linebacker body?!” Would you say this to a girlfriend, or even your own sister? I’m not sure which scene you’re from, but in the Denver scene, we show each other love, respect & support. I truly hope the review you chose to leave satiated your ego, because all it really did was make you look bad. Rise - thanks for being a chill mic that comics can work out material and share camaraderie. Emily - thanks for being a great host! 🥰
Trey Blea
Incredibly fun, welcoming and safe space for comedy nights! Love the atmosphere, drinks, hosts, and funny people who run this joint! Open mic night is always a fun adventure and the various comedy shows always keep me coming back for more 👏
Carlos Santos
Rise Comedy is where I first started doing stand-up, and it’s held a special place in my heart ever since. I’ve met so many amazing people here. Some days I don’t feel like doing comedy but, I still like going to the open mic to hangout. It’s my third place and I’m excited to continue creating memories and bad jokes here. Huge shoutout to Christie Buchele, Jen, and Emily for being such awesome, welcoming, and supportive humans. Rise wouldn’t be the same without you all!
How to reach RISE Comedy - Denver Comedy, Improv, Stand Up and Sketch - Full Bar
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Why RISE Comedy - Denver Comedy, Improv, Stand Up and Sketch - Full Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at RISE Comedy with your friends? Because it offers an engaging and memorable experience that combines laughter, creativity, and social connection in a vibrant, intimate setting. Whether you’re planning a casual night out or a special occasion, RISE Comedy in Denver provides the perfect atmosphere to unwind and enjoy quality time with others. This venue doesn’t just deliver stand-up or improv shows—it cultivates a community vibe, wrapping audiences in a shared spirit of fun and spontaneity. The lively performances fuel conversations and laughter that extend well beyond the show, making it a bonding experience for groups. Add to that a full bar where everyone can personify their night with drinks and unwind in a relaxed, cozy environment tailored to social gatherings. The venue's location near Denver’s bustling Larimer Street means you and your friends can easily combine the evening with other city attractions or dining options before or after the show. All these elements come together to make RISE Comedy not just a comedy club, but a go-to social hub where groups meet to celebrate friendship, enjoy fresh comedic talent, and create lasting memories.
What activities does RISE Comedy offer that make it ideal for a group meetup? The venue hosts a rich variety of shows that appeal to diverse tastes, including stand-up comedy, long-form and short-form improv, and sketch comedy. Frequent events like "Hit and Run: Musical Improv," noted as Colorado’s longest-running improv show, provide a unique blend of humor, music, and spontaneous storytelling which captivates audiences night after night. This show alone showcases the immense creativity and talent of performers who craft entire comedic musicals from audience suggestions, an experience that keeps viewers engaged and laughing throughout. Other staples include competitive improv performances such as "A Bad Play Done Terribly," where actors take audience cues to create hilarious and unpredictable plots on the spot. These shows foster interactive energy, which is especially fun for groups as audience participation amplifies the communal atmosphere. Alongside shows, RISE Comedy offers workshops and courses that allow attendees to learn improv and stand-up themselves—an appealing option for groups wanting to try something new together. The venue's comfortable 80-seat theatre ensures an intimate experience where every seat has a great view, encouraging shared reactions and inside jokes among friends.
Why is RISE Comedy considered perfect for group gatherings? First, the space itself is thoughtfully designed for social interaction. The well-stocked full bar serves a wide variety of drinks, making it easy to toast group celebrations or just enjoy a nightcap while discussing the show. The compact size of the main theatre helps maintain a cozy atmosphere where audiences feel connected to the performers and each other. Unlike large, impersonal venues, this intimacy enhances the laughter and makes conversations before and after the show effortless. The staff is known for their friendly, professional service which helps groups feel welcomed and well-cared-for throughout their visit. Additionally, the venue regularly hosts themed events and group-friendly nights that cater to different interests, giving friends a great reason to come back multiple times. Because of its strong focus on local talent, ticket prices tend to be more affordable than many traditional comedy clubs, allowing larger groups to attend without breaking the bank. This combination of accessibility, ambiance, and entertainment makes RISE Comedy an ideal choice for friend and family meetups, corporate outings, and celebrations.
How does RISE Comedy’s entertainment lineup stand out compared to other comedy venues? The club prioritizes nurturing local and in-house comedians over relying heavily on touring acts. This approach creates a vibrant platform for homegrown talent and emergent performers, offering audiences fresh, original content regularly. The mix of seasoned comedians alongside newcomers creates a dynamic and surprising experience where each show feels unique. Unlike comedy clubs with repetitive lineups, RISE’s rotating performances—ranging from pure stand-up to long-form improv to musical improv—ensure that guests seldom see the same routine twice. This variety keeps nights lively and appeals to groups with varied tastes in comedy. Moreover, the emphasis on improvisation encourages audience participation, keeping viewers actively involved rather than passively watching, which greatly enhances the group dynamic. The performers at RISE Comedy have received praise for their wit, creativity, and ability to captivate audiences, making each event memorable. Regular patrons often highlight the club’s special shows like “Hit and Run” for their inventive plots and engaging musical scenes, a rarity in comedy clubs nationally but a signature experience here.
What additional reasons make RISE Comedy a recommended venue for friends and families alike? Beyond entertainment, RISE Comedy fosters a genuine community feel within its walls. Patrons frequently comment on the warm, inclusive atmosphere that makes both locals and visitors feel at home. Whether you’re a comedy aficionado or new to improv and sketch, the friendly environment removes any intimidation and invites everyone to enjoy the experience. The venue also offers customizable events—such as corporate workshops and private parties—that combine comedy with team-building, making it suitable for work outings as well as casual hangouts. These events can be tailored to different group sizes and preferences, so you can celebrate milestones or strengthen bonds through laughter and shared fun. Additionally, the location offers easy access to dining and nightlife around Larimer Street, allowing groups to extend their evening seamlessly. The mix of high-quality entertainment, community-centric ethos, and full bar amenities position RISE Comedy as a premier choice for hosting groups looking for an engaging night out in Denver.
In summary, RISE Comedy stands out as an exceptional venue where laughter, creativity, and social connection converge. Its diverse programming ranges from stand-up to musical improv, ensuring that every visit feels fresh and exciting. The cozy, intimate theatre combined with a full bar makes it an inviting place for groups to gather, celebrate, and engage with live comedy on a personal level. The emphasis on local, emerging talent keeps shows authentic and dynamic, providing opportunities for discovery alongside entertainment. Whether celebrating with friends, enjoying a family outing, or planning a unique group event, RISE Comedy offers a welcoming environment that encourages participation, connection, and lots of laughs—making it a must-visit spot in Denver’s vibrant entertainment scene.