When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Tao Comedy Studio
Why Tao Comedy Studio is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Tao Comedy Studio stands out as an exceptional place to gather with friends for a night filled with laughter and community spirit. Located conveniently in Koreatown, Los Angeles, it’s owned by veteran comedian and comedy coach Bobbie Oliver along with writer/comedian Chris Oliver. This studio is not just a comedy school but a vibrant, inclusive space with a welcoming Zen atmosphere that cultivates creativity and confidence. Tao Comedy Studio offers top-tier stand-up and improv comedy classes that follow the unique philosophy of "The Tao of Comedy," authored by Bobbie Oliver. Beyond classes, the studio hosts a variety of engaging events such as open mic nights, comedy shows, and festivals that bring together diverse comedians and audiences alike. Known for its supportive environment, the studio also offers a Comedians Depression Support Group, underscoring its commitment to mental well-being within the comedy community. The beautiful, versatile venue is available for event rentals, making it an ideal spot to celebrate special occasions in a lively, artistic setting. With its reputation for being a safe and empowering space, Tao Comedy Studio has gained accolades such as LA Weekly’s Best of LA and Open Mic Reviews’ Best Place to Do Your First Set, making it a premier destination to enjoy laughter and friendship in Los Angeles.
Here's what people think of Tao Comedy Studio
As of recent, Tao Comedy Studio holds a 4.8-star rating based on 95 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise Tao Comedy Studio for its nurturing and inclusive environment. Many highlight Bobbie Oliver’s exceptional coaching skills, noting how her feedback and teaching help students grow from beginners into confident performers. Reviewers commonly mention the supportive atmosphere that encourages creativity and allows comics to take risks and develop their unique voices. Positive reviews commend the studio’s well-organized courses and the palpable Zen vibe that adds to the overall experience. Students frequently emphasize the value of the stand-up and improv classes, as well as the benefit of community events and open mics that foster connection among comedians and audiences. On the negative side, some reviewers have pointed out that, like many intimate comedy venues or classes, space can sometimes feel limited and demand can be high, which might lead to occasional scheduling challenges. However, such critiques are minimal and do not overshadow the overwhelmingly positive feedback about the quality of instruction and the warmth of the community. In conclusion, the reviews depict Tao Comedy Studio as an excellent, highly recommended place not only to learn comedy but also to enjoy vibrant shows and support a thriving, intersectional comedy scene in Los Angeles.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sarah Schwartz
I love the open mics at Tao, some of the best and most supportive in LA. I also took Bobbies standup class and it is incredible! Great for newbies or more established comics, she'll meet you wherever you're at in comedy. Highly recommend
Valerie Schultz
I took my very first comedy class here, and it was a great experience. Tao is a great space for mics and shows. Independent. Cool. Black box. Safe space. Mics almost every night of the week and a very welcoming space for all levels of comedy.
Monika Scott
Woman owned!! LGBTQIA represented!! The experience here was great!! I truly love LA!!
Noelle Hoffman
This is THE gem of Los Angeles. If you want to attend mics, there are several every single week and they’re extremely supportive and you will meet really cool people along the way. If you want to see shows, they always have awesome lineups and the owner regularly donates proceeds from tickets to local charities. The space is GORGEOUS….seriously beautiful. And Bobbie, the owner, is the sweetest and most supportive human ever. If you want to take a comedy class, take HERS. Can’t say enough good things. 20/10.
Jason Luna
Small theater space in northern koreatown. There’s a fun mix of standup shows, with some other theatrical stuff. Emphasis on female driven shows, which is nice. Minimal on site parking, lots of difficult street parking. Concessions like a can of coke or candy , so make sure you’re well fed elsewhere.
How to reach Tao Comedy Studio
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Website: None
Why Tao Comedy Studio may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Tao Comedy Studio with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a night out at Tao Comedy Studio in Los Angeles offers a unique and spirited way to share laughter and connection in a warm, inclusive setting. With a stellar 4.8 rating from 95 reviews, this vibrant comedy hub is much more than just a stage — it's a community space where everyone feels welcome, from novice joke-tellers to seasoned comedy aficionados. The studio’s ethos centers on safety, positivity, and empowerment, making it ideal for groups seeking an uplifting and memorable experience together. Located conveniently in Koreatown, Tao Comedy Studio combines a relaxing Zen vibe with active engagement, so whether your group enjoys watching sharp stand-up, participating in open mics, or simply soaking in the fun atmosphere, it caters perfectly to diverse social preferences. Attending an event here ensures your friends will leave smiling, having bonded over comedic genius in a no-judgment zone that honors creativity and respect. The studio’s combination of high-quality shows, engaging classes, and a supportive audience makes it a top choice for your next group meetup where humor and heart take center stage.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Tao Comedy Studio?
At Tao Comedy Studio, the activity lineup is centered around stand-up comedy, blending both audience and participatory experiences. The studio holds six open mic nights each week, offering a range of themed events such as the Women’s Mic on Mondays (inclusive of trans and non-binary comedians), LGBTQIA+ Allies Mic on Tuesdays, and other midweek and weekend sessions. These open mics give attendees the opportunity not only to enjoy fresh, emerging comedic talent but also to jump on stage themselves if they feel brave, with affordable entry prices that include a free non-alcoholic drink. The supportive environment and punch card system encourage repeated visits, fostering a genuine sense of belonging. Beyond open mics, Tao Comedy Studio serves as a premier location for stand-up comedy classes taught by veteran comedian Bobbie Oliver, where you and your friends can learn the art of comedy craft in a nurturing space grounded in Taoist and Zen philosophies. These classes are designed to uncover individual comedic voices without resorting to clichés, making them an enriching group activity for anyone interested in creativity and self-expression. The studio also hosts comedy shows, festivals, and specialized events like a Comedians Depression Support Group, broadening the scope for entertainment and meaningful social engagement.
Why is Tao Comedy Studio perfect for a group meetup?
Tao Comedy Studio is an exceptional venue for group meetups due to its inclusive, welcoming atmosphere combined with diverse programming that appeals to a wide range of tastes and comfort levels. The environment is described as having a calming Zen vibe, which balances the high-energy comedy performances to ensure everyone feels at ease. This creates a safe, judgment-free zone, essential for groups that may include people of varying backgrounds and personalities. The studio’s commitment to no harmful or offensive jokes – particularly no jokes promoting rape or violence against women – also cultivates a respectful and positive space ideal for friends and family to relax and enjoy the night worry-free. With multiple weekly events, groups can select times that suit their schedules—daytime or evening shows—and enjoy the intimate and friendly ambiance that feels like a collective celebration of humor. The proximity to Koreatown means plenty of nearby dining options to extend your meetup before or after the comedy experience. Moreover, the studio allows event rentals, so groups can even host private celebrations or custom meetups in a lively yet serene environment specifically tailored to their needs.
What can you expect from the comedy classes offered at Tao Comedy Studio?
The stand-up comedy classes at Tao Comedy Studio stand out as a deeply rewarding experience, especially for groups interested in exploring humor beyond passive entertainment. These classes focus on fostering creativity and authentic comedic voices using an approach inspired by Taoist and Zen Buddhist principles—a philosophy emphasized by founder and teacher Bobbie Oliver, who has over 30 years of experience in the field. The classes provide a safe outlet to experiment with joke writing and performance, avoiding formulaic or hackneyed material and instead encouraging originality and self-expression. Feedback is personalized and constructive, offered in a positive manner that not only helps individual participants but also benefits the entire class. For groups, taking classes together can be a bonding journey, spurring personal growth and shared laughter while navigating the ups and downs of crafting stand-up comedy. Also, the availability of plentiful performance opportunities through open mics, shows, and festivals affiliated with the studio means students can quickly put their new skills into practice, turning the class experience into an ongoing social and creative adventure.
How does the atmosphere at Tao Comedy Studio enhance the group experience?
Tao Comedy Studio boasts a unique atmosphere that significantly enriches the experience for groups. The studio's venue incorporates a Zen-inspired aesthetic that promotes calm, focus, and inclusivity, resulting in a space where humor thrives without hostility or pressure. Reviewers often highlight the friendly and polite staff, as well as a well-curated lineup of comedians, creating an environment that feels both professional and welcoming. The presence of a patio area for comedy adds an extra dimension of casual, laid-back enjoyment, perfect for groups wanting to socialize openly between sets or beforehand. Moreover, the studio’s policies emphasizing respect and inclusiveness help ensure all attendees feel safe and valued. This atmosphere makes it easier for groups to open up to the moment and each other, fostering genuine connection through shared laughter. It also invites newcomers to comedy to feel comfortable, making group outings here a positive experience whether all members are comedy experts or just looking for a fun night out.
What role does the community and inclusivity at Tao Comedy Studio play in the group meetup experience?
Community and inclusivity are foundational to Tao Comedy Studio’s identity and enhance the meetup experience in profound ways. The studio creates a space where diversity in gender identity, sexual orientation, and background is not only welcomed but celebrated—evidenced by dedicated open mic events like the Women’s Mic and LGBTQIA+ Allies Mic. This intersectional feminist approach means that group members from a variety of walks of life will find their voices heard and perspectives respected. The environment encourages friendly interaction and empathy, which is critical for groups wanting to deepen their bonds beyond casual hangouts. The studio also channels its community spirit into supportive initiatives like the Comedians Depression Support Group, demonstrating a commitment to mental health and well-being. By rallying at Tao Comedy Studio, groups become part of a larger network of creative, caring individuals, enriching social connections and offering a sense of belonging that extends beyond the event itself. This culture of acceptance and encouragement makes Tao Comedy Studio a standout choice for anyone seeking a meetup that marries entertainment with meaningful communal engagement.