The Main Room at Hollywood Improv

Official address: 8162 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046, USA

Open date: 1970s

Holding a storied fame as one of Los Angeles, California’s most iconic comedy series, the Main Room at the Hollywood Improv was founded in 1975 by Budd Friedman and Mark Lonow. Upon its inception, it quickly became a frequent institution in the standup comedy industry.

The venue is sat on Melrose Avenue, at the heart of West Hollywood, and it has been a launchpad for innumerable comedians, both emerging acts and veteran acts. The venue’s intimate setting and unmatched stage have drawn some of the most memorable standups in comic history.

In the 1970s and 1980s, the Main Room was a magnet for comedians looking to hone their craft and connect with audiences on a deeper level. Acts like Richard Pryor, Robin Williams, and George Carli have climbed the stage to deliver impressive sets that went on to become the stuff of legends.

Later in the 1990s, the venue underwent a renovation and expansion phase. The Main Room received upgrades that affected its aesthetics and acoustics. However, these changes did not detach it from its roots, as it did well to conserve an intimate atmosphere and commitment to showcasing high-ranking comedic talent.

Now, after several decades, the Improv has endured both stable and turbulent times, continuing to provide a platform for hundreds of truth-speaking artists from across the country.

A lot of the most celebrated modern artists known today, from Gabrile Iglesias to Craig Robinson, David Spade, Cristela Alonzo, Tim Dillon, and Gary Cannon, were first introduced on this stage.

Events at the Main Room

As severally mentioned earlier, the Main Room at Hollywood Improv hosts a variety of comical shows, including open mic nights and podcast recordings.

One mic night comes on Tuesday, 12th March 2024, themed Happy Hour Open Mic. Later the same day, it will host BITCH with Tammy Jo Dearen ft. Laura Kightlinger, Brittany Furlan, Darren Capozzi, Kacie Kane, Alisha Gaddis, Thomas Dale and more TBA!!

Another event that will be held here is Tonight at the Improv, featuring Dane Cook, Tim Dillon, Craig Robinson, Brian Monarch, Jessica Keenan, Andrew Vickers, and other quite special guests!

On Wednesday, March 13th, the Main Room will host The 88 Show with Avery Pearson ft. Andrew Santino, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Lisa Ann Walter, Trevor Wallace, Sandy Danto, Ali Macofsky, Niccole Thurman, Anita Vasan, The Grey Streaks and many more!

Other upcoming shows (later this year) are Michael Lenoci & Friends! and Greg Fitzsimmons's Annual St. Patrick's Day Show! ft. Harland Williams, The Sklar Brothers, Laura Kightlinger, Mike Gibbons, Annie Lederman, and more TBA!, and Bill Devlin's Comedy & Cocktails.

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How to Get to The Main Room at Hollywood Improv

Going to the Main Room at Hollywood Improv is possible with public transportation services. While several bus routes serve the area, the Hollywood/Highland Metro station, served by the Red Line subway, is within the venue’s walking distance. Do check for route information and schedules.

Driving? There are parking options available in the area. Metered street parking spots are in place along Melrose Avenue and the streets surrounding it. Plus, there are parking lots/garages in the area where you can park your four-wheeler for a fee of about $10. Do arrive early, particularly on busy nights.

Another option is services like Uber and Lyft. Use any of the mobile apps to request a ride, and a driver will pick you up and drop you off at the venue. This can be particularly useful if you prefer not to drive, not use public transit, or if parking is limited.