If you came to 608today for the jokes… well, we’re sorry to disappoint.

For something as serious as comedy, you really should leave it to the professionals. And with Madison’s eclectic comedy circuit, you’ll have no trouble finding all the live shows, open mics, and improv experiences you need to laugh till you’ve got a six pack.

Just for laughs

Dive into the Isthmus comedy scene headfirst: Comedy on State is a fixture of State Street featuring nationally renowned comedians + the second-largest open mic night in the nation, hosted every Wednesday (including today).

Upcoming events

The Mic on State | Wed., July 6 | 9 p.m. | $5
Phil Hanley | Thurs., July 7-Sat., July 9 | 7:30 + 10 p.m. | $15+

For a roaring good time, prepare for Madison Comedy Week from Aug. 7-14. Comedians + troupes will converge on Madison for a week of shows headlined by Ian Edwards.

Big names at your favorite venues

Your favorite hangout might already feature comedians that you’ve been missing all along. Just take a look at these upcoming events:

The Bur Oak

Real Talk | Fri., July 8 | 8 p.m. | $10 | Presented by Madison Indie Comedy.
Open Mic Comedy Night | Mon., July 11 | 7-10 p.m. | Free

The Crucible

Comedy Plus | Fri., July 8 | 7 p.m. | $10+ | A variety show with stand-up, music, drag + burlesque.

The Grumpy Troll

Comedy Night with Kristen Toomey | Fri., July 8 | 8-9:30 p.m. | $15 | Features Midwestern talent, local beer, and The Grumpy Troll’s full menu.

Alliant Energy Center

John Mulaney: From Scratch | Fri., Aug. 19 | 8 p.m. | $84
Kevin Hart: Reality Check | Sat., Aug. 27 | 7 p.m. | $84

Pro tip: both shows are likely to sell out, so get your tickets soon.

In case you’re saying “yes, and?”

Once you’ve explored the scene, you may ask yourself, “How does it work?” (Or even, “How can I join?”) Improv comedy brings out some of the wildest laughs in the biz — and these two Madison improv groups are willing to show you a thing or two.

Monkey Business Institute

Next show: Grown Up Improv Show (Sat., July 9)
Classes: Intro to Improv (Mondays, July 11-Aug. 29), Summer Kids Camp 8-10 (Aug. 22-26), Summer Kids Camp 11-18 (July 19-23)

Atlas Improv Co.

Next show: Double Feature (Fri., July 8)
Classes: Free Workshop (Thurs., July 7), Improv Core (Times vary)