The Denver comedy scene stands out, not just for its location at a mile-high altitude, but for its diversity and unique perspectives. With the city’s growing variety of demographics, it’s no surprise that LGBTQ+ voices are making waves in the comedy world. As any queer person can tell you, navigating life’s challenges often means developing a sharp sense of humor along the way. In Denver, that humor shines, with queer and allied comedians comedians bringing fresh, bold perspectives that resonate deeply with audiences. If you want a taste of real, authentic comedy, Denver’s queer scene is where you’ll find it.
LGBTQ+ Denver Comedy Venues
The LGBTQ+ Denver comedy scene is vibrant and full of unique venues that celebrate diverse voices. From cabaret-style shows to stand-up performances, these spaces are committed to fostering inclusivity while delivering laughter. These are just some of the wonderful queer-centric businesses you’ll find on GayDenver!
RISE Comedy
RISE Comedy isn’t just another stop on Denver’s laugh circuit; it’s a comedic crucible where the city’s most audacious voices are forged in the fires of hilarity. This comedy incubator, nestled in the heart of Denver’s stand-up scene, is more than a venue—it’s a revolution in joke-telling that’s as unpredictable as Colorado weather. RISE has carved out a niche in Denver’s comedy landscape by offering a smorgasbord of classes and workshops that transform timid joke-tellers into stage-commanding comedy commandos. Their shows are a kaleidoscope of perspectives, featuring everything from non-binary comics dissecting dating apps to pansexual performers riffing on the complexities of modern relationships.
RISE Comedy is more than just laughs; it’s a platform for amplifying voices traditionally left out of stand-up. Denver’s LGBTQ+ community thrives here, where diverse perspectives take the stage. RISE hosts regular comedy events, including open mics, improv, and sketch shows, and offers classes for beginners to advanced performers. These classes help develop comedic talent while encouraging performers to express their unique perspectives. RISE is making Denver’s comedy scene more inclusive, blending humor with social commentary to create an engaging and thought-provoking space.
Clocktower Cabaret
The Clocktower Cabaret is a standout in Denver’s entertainment scene, blending cabaret flair with a strong dose of comedy. While known for its burlesque roots, almost all of its shows incorporate significant comedic elements, making it a unique venue for laughter and performance art. Nestled in the historic D&F Tower, the Clocktower offers an eclectic mix of performances, from cabaret and music to LGBTQ+ showcases and comedy acts.
Audiences can expect a blend of risqué humor and sharp wit, with comedians and performers using the stage to push creative boundaries. The venue’s atmosphere allows for experimentation, making it a home for both traditional and unconventional comedy. Whether it’s a queer comedy night or a burlesque-infused stand-up show, the Clocktower Cabaret proves that laughter can be as dazzling as the feathers and sequins it’s known for.
Editor's Picks
Comedy Works
Comedy Works isn’t just any old venue, it has a national pull, bringing in such heavy-hitting names as Margaret Cho, Tig Notaro, Wanda Sykes, Matteo Lane, and Sam Jay. This comedy powerhouse has been cultivating chuckles since 1981, evolving from a humble basement club to a multi-location laugh factory that’s shaped the landscape of stand-up comedy in Denver.
The venue’s intimate setting, with its low ceilings and close-packed tables, creates an electric atmosphere that crackles with anticipation before each set. It’s here that both comedy legends and up-and-coming LGBTQ+ voices have honed their craft, turning Denver into an unexpected nexus of hilarity. The club’s commitment to diversity isn’t just lip service; it’s woven into the fabric of their programming, showcasing queer comedians whose razor-sharp wit cuts through societal norms with surgical precision. From their New Faces competition to their headlining acts, Comedy Works has become a launchpad for LGBTQ+ talent, propelling Denver’s comedy scene into the national spotlight with the force of a thousand punchlines.
Savage Entertainment Productions
Savage Entertainment Productions is shaking up Denver’s comedy scene with its bold, unpredictable shows. They don’t just host events—they create unique comedy experiences, from underground open mics to headliner shows mixing comedy, burlesque, and drag. Savage Entertainment focuses on giving a platform to diverse voices, especially LGBTQ+ performers, making their events inclusive and innovative. Whether it’s a queer comedy festival or a showcase for transgender talent, Savage is reshaping Denver’s comedy landscape by pushing boundaries and fostering community.
Two Cent Lion
Two Cent Lion, a queer-centric theater, is making its mark on Denver’s performing arts scene. While not specifically a comedy club, it features a range of performances, including comedy plays and other live shows. The theater creates a space for LGBTQ+ voices, offering a platform where marginalized perspectives shine. Their diverse programming includes everything from queer open mics to thought-provoking plays, blending entertainment with social commentary. Two Cent Lion isn’t just about laughs; it’s a community hub where emerging LGBT+ talent and seasoned performers come together to challenge norms and spark important conversations through the power of performance.
Author: Jeff Wilson
Jeff is one of the owners of GayDenver and one of its writers. He is a Denver transplant who loves the city and the proximity of the mountains. He is happily married to his husband and loves thinking with his furbaby Thayella.