Stand-up & open mic nights: Singapore’s lesser-known comedy scene

Singapore is known for a lot of things — a cosmopolitan city, a foodie’s paradise, and even for its airport — but one thing that rarely comes to mind is its burgeoning comedy scene.

From stand-up to open-mic nights, here’s a list of spaces that give local (and visiting) comedians the chance to shine and for you, a hysterical night to remember!

P.S. You might want to exclude the kids.

In the mood for political satire? Check out Comedy at Canvas with Kumar

Catch Kumar in action and laugh non-stop for 1.5 hours. Photo credit: Comedy at Canvas

What better way to connect with Singapore than through the lens of homegrown legendary comedian and drag queen? Kumar first appeared on stage in the 1990s and has become a household name amongst the locals. His jokes aren’t just hilarious, they’re genuine commentaries based on his observations of the country. He takes a dig at social and political issues, and thoroughly enjoys poking fun at the audience; so do take note if you’re seated in the front rows.

Despite being an entertainer for over two decades, Kumar’s performances are fresh and contemporary. Nothing’s off limits with Kumar, so if you can handle it, this is one show you don’t want to miss!

Address: #B1-01/06 The Riverwalk, 20 Upper Circular Road, Singapore 058416

(3 mins walk from Clarke Quay Central)

When: Every Tuesday, 8:30pm

Contact: To make reservations, call +65 8125 0166 or email info@canvasvenue.sg

Website: https://www.canvasvenue.sg/comedy-at-canvas

Get your weekly dose of laughter with unfiltered jokes at Comedy Masala

Comedy Masala is serious about comedy and has a top 10 ranking to prove it. Photo credit: Comedy Masala

If you love laughing at yourself, here's where you need to be. Because odds are, founder Umar Rana, a comedian himself, will call on you as he introduces the show. He heckles but it’s all in good fun, so don’t be shy!

Featuring a mixed bag of local talents (including homegrown star Sam See) and comedians from abroad, this is the spot to go if you want zero-filter comedy. The comedians at Comedy Masala speak the international language of comedy so you will never feel left out.

Comedy Masala has been going strong for the last eight years and has been ranked among the top 10 comedy nights in the world by Traveller Australia!

Wait, there’s more. There are lucky draws at the end of most shows, giving away beer and champagne, so look out for the chap collecting business cards, as that’s how you participate!

Address: #01-01 HERO’s, 69 Circular Road, Singapore 049423

(5 mins walk from Raffles Place MRT station)

When: Every Tuesday, 8:00pm

Contact: To make reservations, call +65 8525 7414 or email umar@comedymasala.com

Website: http://comedymasala.com/

Talk Cock Comedy: for the budding comedian

(‘Talk cock’: A Singaporean slang that means to idle banter or quite literally, talk nonsense)

Get on stage to talk cock or hear others do just that. Photo credit: Comedy Club Asia

As Singapore’s original standup comedy open mic night, you can expect brilliant performances, cheap drinks and chill vibes at Talk Cock Comedy.

Held every Wednesday at Blu Jaz Café, Singapore’s quirky, bohemian-style bar, Talk Cock Comedy features both renowned and budding stand-up comedians. So, if you have a bunch of jokes or humorous one-liners up your sleeve, here’s your chance to get on stage and shine. Who knows – you may very well be the next stand-up comedy sensation.

Don’t want to be in the spotlight? Get yourself a house beverage and sit back and relax as the next comedian-wannabe takes centre stage to leave you in splits.

Address: Blu Jaz Café, 11 Bali Lane, Singapore 189848

(6 mins walk from Bugis MRT station)

When: Every Wednesday, 8:30pm (till 30 January 2019) 

Contact: To book a slot, email info@thecomedyclub.asia

Website: https://www.thecomedyclub.asia/

Head to The Merry Lion Comedy Café and Bar if you want comedy all year round

Adrian Saw, the funny man working his magic at Shiok! & Awe. Photo credit: The Merry Lion

The Merry Lion is the only full-time comedy club in Singapore that’s open seven days a week. It features a variety of acts from all over the world, plus regional and local comedians. There’s too many to list, so check out their website to find out who’s in town the same time as you.

Kick back with some booze, as there are always special offers on drinks, and prepare to be in stitches as the comedians deliver their best punch lines.

What else, you ask? The Merry Lion features Shiok! & Awe, Singapore’s only recurring magic and comedy show. Don't miss this one-of-a-kind experience!

Address: Level 3, 8B Circular Road, Singapore 049364

(4 mins walk from Clarke Quay Central)

When: Monthly (Check the website for more details)

Contact: To make reservations, call +65 9066 1655 or email themerrylionsingapore@gmail.com

Website: http://www.themerrylion.sg

And so, beneath the ‘orderly’ façade of Singapore’s society, uncover the wild and fun side to Singaporeans, and celebrate the country’s local sense of humour. Whether you’re in town for a short stay or live in Singapore, catch any of these shows to add a touch of hilarity to your life.