Belly laugh with Nashville’s Third Coast Comedy Club

We’ll skip right to the punchline — if you haven’t made it to see Nashville’s very own comedy troupe, here’s what you’re missing.

Five people stand on stage in front of a Third Coast Comedy Club sign. One person is in the middle framing their face with their hands, one stands behind them, and two others on each side.

Re-visit this page for the chance to audition to become part of a house team. | Photo via Third Coast Comedy Club

It began as a Kickstarter in April 2016, raising $32,480 in 30 days. Today, Third Coast Comedy Club remains Nashville’s only venue dedicated to improv comedy.

In the spirit of quick thinking, we asked Third Coast Comedy Club pros to share their best (or worst) Nashville-themed jokes with us.

  • “Remember, it’s not illegal to Venmo request the bride-to-be that cut you off on I-40.” — Bill Hillsman, Third Coast Training Center teacher and improviser, The Third Coast Comedy Show
  • “Nashville is the only place where your bartender, Uber driver, and barista all have the same debut album dropping next week.” — Miriam Kirk, comedian and host of Roast the Host
  • “Some of the greatest performers got their start in Nashville - Dolly Parton... Taylor Swift... Bob from improv class.” — Dave Strumfeld, musician and improviser, The Third Coast Comedy Show
Three people stand on stage. One person stands in front, appearing to sing, while two others stand behind forming a circle together with their arms.

Third Coast Comedy Club celebrates its 9-year anniversary in late September. | Photo via Third Coast Comedy Club

Jokes aside, Third Coast Comedy Club was born from the frustration of Nashville comics sharing spaces with venues designed for music or the food and beverage industry. The stage is set for locals to showcase all types of comedy under one roof, from sketch and stand-up to game shows and specials. Pro tip: Kid-friendly programming, Gnu Tales, is on the second Saturday morning of each month.

In addition to live performances, the group offers corporate workshops + performance classes for teams looking to enhance their collaboration and communication skills, or for individuals to just learn something new.

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