open mic NIGHT

The Improv, Laugh Factory and the Comedy Store are top tier of open-mike nights

March 8, 2009

Open mike nights can sometimes be their own special circle of hell -- for the performer and the audience. (It's below the heretics but above the wrathful, sullen and slothful.) But they needn't be. Within this world of two-drink minimums and three-minute showcases, you can avoid the most demoralizing open mikes and stick to the ones that are only mildly disheartening. (We kid because we love.)

The upper crust

The top tier of the open mike scene is occupied by the Big Three, where a killer set can lead to a coveted showcase spot. The Improv (8162 Melrose Blvd., L.A., [323] 651-2583), of course, hosts an open mike at 5 p.m. Tuesdays, with sign-ups beginning at 4:15 p.m, as does the Laugh Factory Hollywood (8001 W. Sunset Blvd., L.A., [323] 656-1336). At the latter, the night begins at 6:30 and has only 15 spots, so stand-ups are advised to arrive very early and master the art of standing in line. The Comedy Store (8433 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, [323] 650-6268) opens up its stage at 7 p.m. Sunday and Monday nights. Sign-up is at 6 p.m. and is based on a lottery system. There are 25 spots, and lucky winners get three minutes of stage time.