Locals who want to take a stab at stand-up comedy, try singing an original song, or jam with other musicians have great options in Omaha. A number of venues around town host free open mic nights throughout the work week. Here’s a rundown of some sites where wannabe comedians, crooners, and rock stars can get their moment in the sun.
Dubliner Pub
1205 Harney St.
402.342.5887
@dublinerpubomaha on Facebook
The Irish-themed lounge in Omaha’s Old Market hosts a comedy open mic night every Monday from 9-11 p.m. Each performer gets five minutes on stage to drum up the laughs. There’s also a writing workshop held beforehand from 7:30-8:30 p.m., so performers can collaborate and fine-tune their material prior to hitting their mark in the spotlight.
Therapy Bar & Grill
5059 S 108th St.
402.933.3669
@Therapy108 on Facebook
This neighborhood bar in northwest Omaha offers the typical fried appetizers and sports TV, as well as Twisted Tuesdays—open jam sessions from 7-11 p.m. Customers can enjoy taco specials and $3 margaritas while they lend an ear to amateur singers, bands, and solo acts. Therapy’s Facebook page confirms “All types of music are welcome.”
The Backline Comedy Theatre
1618 Harney St.
402.720.7670
This downtown venue sponsors “laughs, beer, and fun” in front of an encouraging crowd year round. Open mic nights are held every Wednesday at 8 p.m., with names being drawn for a chance to take the stage and deliver four minutes of funny quips. The theater also offers open stage nights on Tuesdays at 8:15 p.m. for folks to try their hand at improvisation and skit comedy. Each performer is allowed four minutes of stage time, or 20 minutes for a team of five.
The Down Under Lounge
3530 Leavenworth St.
402.933.3927
The Down Under Lounge hosts Wednesday Nite Live, its weekly open mic event showcasing local talent, 8 p.m. to close. The lounge maintains a separate DU Open Mic Facebook page, which explains, “Artists sign up in advance for 15 minutes, or a three-song set. Everything goes—music, poetry, comedy, magic, etc. It’s your time to shine!”
Beach House Bar & Grill
5338 N. 103rd St.
402.933.0277
Search Wired-Pub-Grill on Facebook
Patrons looking to tickle their funny bone can find a show every week at Beach House Bar & Grill, formerly Wired Pub & Grill. The neighborhood bar hosts Comics Anonymous open mic night on Thursdays from 9-11 p.m. Performers are granted six minutes of stage time to prove their comedic mettle. Entrance to the show is free.
The Berkley
1901 Leavenworth St., Omaha
@theberkleyomaha on Facebook
This seated mixed-use venue offers more upscale environment for live performances than a typical bar, with a stellar sound system and craft cocktails menu. The space hosts an open mic supper club every Thursday, with dinner specials served 5 pm to midnight, and an open mic for musical performers 9 pm to midnight.
