Birmingham's comedy scene has grown significantly in recent years, building on the city's natural strengths -- a large, diverse population with a healthy appetite for entertainment, and a central location that makes it a natural stop on any touring comedian's schedule. Brummie audiences are warm and generous, quick to laugh and slow to heckle, which makes Birmingham a favourite city for many stand-up performers.
Dedicated comedy clubs
The Glee Club
The Glee Club on the Arcadian Centre in the city centre is Birmingham's most established comedy venue and one of the best comedy clubs in the country. The purpose-built room has excellent sightlines and sound, and the weekend shows feature three or four acts plus a compere -- all drawn from the top tier of the UK comedy circuit. The atmosphere is lively without being rowdy, and the combination of food service and comedy makes for a proper night out. Thursday and Friday shows tend to have stronger lineups at slightly lower prices than Saturdays.
Jongleurs Birmingham
Jongleurs at the Arcadian, near the Glee Club, offers another regular comedy night in the same complex. The format is similar -- multiple acts on a bill -- and it draws on the national circuit for its performers. Having two major comedy clubs in the same small area means you have options if one is sold out or if you fancy trying something different.
Birmingham Comedy Festival
While not a venue, the Birmingham Comedy Festival (held annually in October) is worth mentioning. It brings a concentrated burst of comedy to venues across the city, from major theatres to intimate pubs. If you can time a visit to coincide with the festival, you will have an embarrassment of comedic riches to choose from.
Theatres hosting comedy
Birmingham Hippodrome
The Hippodrome on Hurst Street is the largest theatre in Birmingham and a regular stop for major touring comedy shows. When big-name comedians come to Birmingham, this is usually where they play. The ornate Victorian interior is magnificent, and the seats are comfortable. The Hippodrome is also the home of Birmingham Royal Ballet and hosts major touring musicals, so the building has a real sense of occasion.
Birmingham Rep
The Rep on Centenary Square occasionally hosts comedy shows and spoken word events alongside its theatre programming. The smaller Door room is particularly good for more intimate comedy performances. The Rep's location, next to the Library of Birmingham and Symphony Hall, makes it easy to combine with other cultural activities.
Utilita Arena Birmingham
The very biggest comedy names play the Utilita Arena. Arena comedy is a different beast from club comedy -- the screens are essential, the atmosphere is more like a concert, and the experience is about being part of a huge collective laugh rather than the intimacy of a small room. For fans of the biggest acts, it is still a great night out.
Pub and independent comedy nights
The Old Joint Stock
The Old Joint Stock on Temple Row is a stunning Fuller's pub housed in a former bank, with a small theatre upstairs. The theatre hosts comedy nights alongside its regular programme of plays and events. The ornate banking hall downstairs is one of the finest pub interiors in Birmingham -- arrive early for a pint in grand surroundings before heading up to the show.
The Victoria
The Victoria in John Bright Street, close to New Street station, hosts regular comedy nights in an upstairs room. The atmosphere is intimate and the lineups draw from the Midlands comedy circuit as well as touring acts. It is a good option for a midweek comedy fix.
Flatpack Comedy
Various independent comedy promoters run nights across Birmingham's pubs and bars. These nights often feature a mix of local and touring comedians, and the prices are usually very reasonable. Check social media and local listings for upcoming nights -- the scene is growing and new nights are appearing regularly.
Getting around
Birmingham New Street station is the main transport hub, with connections from across the country. The Arcadian Centre, where the Glee Club and Jongleurs are located, is a five-minute walk from New Street. The Hippodrome is equally close. The Midland Metro tram connects New Street to other areas of the city, and buses are extensive. Most comedy venues are in the city centre and walkable from the station.
Food and drink
The Arcadian itself has several restaurants, and the nearby Chinese Quarter on Hurst Street offers excellent Cantonese and Szechuan food. For pre-show drinks, The Jekyll and Hyde on Steelhouse Lane is a popular choice with a good beer selection. The Jewellery Quarter, a short tram ride from the city centre, has some of Birmingham's best independent restaurants and bars.
Finding comedy shows
Birmingham's comedy scene is growing in confidence and quality. Browse upcoming comedy events on Tickts with no booking fees and discover how much the Second City has to offer when it comes to live stand-up.
