Depending on what part of Milwaukee you happen to find yourself and what night it is, you have a pretty good chance at catching some live comedy for free. That's how comedians become better. That's why. They work at their craft and gain command of their material and their audiences by giving away laughter at free shows and open mics. Even the ones who are good enough to get paid for their performances often develop new material at free shows.
We can help you find those free events.
For instance, tonight, Tuesday, Feb. 4, you could go to the Down and Over Open Mic, hosted by Christopher Schmidt, at 9 p.m. in Bay View, 2535 S. Kinnickinnic Ave. This one's a free weekly open mic, so whether you want to be dazzled or perform, mark it on your calendar.
Also tonight, at 9:30 p.m., in Riverwest, there's the Riverwest Filling Station Comedy Showcase. That's not an open mic but a free bi-weekly show featuring more established Milwaukee stand-up talent. This week includes Steve Breese, Nate Seek and Mario Robinson and it's hosted by Sam Barone. The location is 701 E. Keefe Ave.
At 7:30 p.m., on Thursday, Feb. 6, the Caste of Killers Comedy Collective is launching a free comedy show called Brew Ha Ha! in Wauwatosa at the Big Head Brewing Company, 6204 W. State St. It will be hosted by Eric Thorson and features Jake Kornely, Gary Zajackowski, Jason Hillman and Chastity Washington.
On Saturday, Feb. 8, the Caste of Killers runs a free open mic in West Allis at 8 p.m., at Paulie's Field Trip, 1430 S. 81st St. That's a weekly show too.
Another free weekly open mic is the Comedy Show Comedy Show Open Mic, at 8 p.m. every Monday, in Riverwest at Bremen Cafe, 901 E. Clarke St.