New club brings in a host of well-known comedians its first month
By Ashley Mackin | Downtown News
The American Comedy Company, the Gaslamp District’s newest venue for stand-up comedy, opened March 1 with nationally recognized comedians and offers opportunities for local comics as well.
The club’s lineup for March includes Christopher Titus, Ari Shaffir, Taylor Williamson, Tom Arnold, Doug Benson and Dave Foley. The first act is Bobby Lee, known for his stand-up shows and roles on MADtv. Lee performs March 1 – 4.
American Comedy Company owner and operator Justin Hollister said he saw a market for a comedy club in the Gaslamp Quarter and said he thinks the club will be a great fit.
“Downtown is very busy and has more than enough bars and restaurants, but needs another option for people as far as entertainment goes,” Hollister said, “and I think we are meeting that need. There are other comedy clubs and comedy nights, but not a place you can count on for quality comedy [almost] every night of the week with acts you really want to see.”
Hollister said that with years of experience in the comedy club industry, he was able to build the relationships needed to bring well-known comedians to a new club.
Previously, Hollister worked at the San Jose IMPROV for six years and said he was excited about branching out to San Diego. “We chose Gaslamp because it’s a great location and there’s nothing like it,” he said.
Intentionally keeping ticket prices from $15 to $20, Hollister said he wants these acts to be available to as many people as possible.
Listing Brian Regan, Sam Kinison and Andy Kaufman as his favorite comedians, Hollister said he has high standards for the acts he brings to the club. “We don’t book shows we don’t stand behind,” he said. In the future, Brian Posehn, Kevin Nealon and Tom Green will be coming to the American Comedy Company theater, Hollister said.
Arnold, who is perhaps best known for his work on the “Roseanne” television series, will be performing at the club March 22 – 24. Lately, Arnold’s act is about “Hollywood, my life [and] my successes and failures,” he said. “Mostly failures,” he added.
Arnold also said he looks forward to re-acquainting himself with San Diego and feels great about performing at the new club. Regarding the audience, Arnold said, “I hope they show up. Then I hope they have a good time, but as long as they show up I’m happy.”
Hollister said he wanted to present opportunities to local comics as well, and will be offering an open mic night the last Tuesday of every month. He also said he wants to book the majority of their hosts from local comedians.
The club is located at 818 B St. and will be open Tuesdays through Sundays. For more information and tickets visit americancomedyco.com or call (619) 795-3858.
