AltComedy.com

Alternative comedy (alt comedy) refers to comedy that deliberately breaks from conventional joke structures, topics, and performance styles. It typically embraces experimentation, personal expression, and often includes political or social commentary. The term originated in the late 1970s in the UK as performers sought alternatives to the working men's club circuit, but has since evolved to encompass many approaches to non-mainstream comedy.

While the boundaries are fluid, alternative comedy generally differs from mainstream comedy in several ways:

• Structure: Alt comedy often rejects traditional setup-punchline structures
• Content: It frequently addresses topics or perspectives not found in mainstream comedy
• Context: Alt comedy typically develops in independent venues rather than established comedy clubs
• Commercial Approach: It often prioritizes artistic expression over broad commercial appeal

However, many comedians move between alternative and mainstream contexts, and techniques pioneered in alternative spaces often eventually influence mainstream comedy.

No. While political and social commentary is common in alternative comedy, many alt comedians focus on surrealism, anti-humor, character work, storytelling, or other approaches that aren't explicitly political. What unites alternative comedians is a willingness to experiment and challenge conventions, not any particular political stance.

While many alternative comedy venues are concentrated in major cities, there are several ways to experience alt comedy regardless of location:

• Podcasts: Many alternative comedians host or appear on podcasts
• Streaming Platforms: Services like Netflix, HBO Max, and YouTube feature specials and shows from alternative comedians
• Virtual Shows: Since 2020, many alternative comedy shows have added livestreaming options
• Festivals: Consider planning trips around comedy festivals that feature alternative performers
• Social Media: Many alternative comedians share short-form content on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter/X

Our blog is updated weekly with new articles, interviews, and analysis. Our comedian profiles, venue listings, and resources are updated monthly to ensure accuracy.

Yes! While our coverage began with a focus on English-language comedy in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada, we're actively expanding our coverage of alternative comedy scenes worldwide. We welcome contributions from writers familiar with alt comedy in all regions.

Absolutely! We welcome suggestions for coverage. Please email [email protected] with details about the comedian, venue, or scene you'd like to see featured.

We selectively partner with brands and organizations that align with our values and would be relevant to our audience. This primarily includes comedy festivals, independent venues, books about comedy, and comedy education programs. For advertising inquiries, please contact [email protected].

We strive for accuracy in all our content. If you spot an error, please email [email protected] with the page URL and a description of the issue.

We welcome submissions from alternative comedians at all career stages. Please email [email protected] with:

• A brief bio (200-300 words)
• Links to your work online
• High-resolution photos (if available)
• Press coverage or reviews (if available)

Yes! We offer several ways to promote alternative comedy shows:

• Listings in our events calendar
• Featured promotion in our newsletter
• Social media sharing
• Potential feature coverage for unique or significant shows

For event promotion, please email [email protected] at least three weeks before your show.

We occasionally feature guest posts from performers with unique insights or experiences to share. These are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Please email [email protected] with your proposal.

Yes. We are committed to digital accessibility and continually work to ensure our site meets WCAG 2.1 AA standards. If you encounter any accessibility issues, please email [email protected].

Every newsletter includes an unsubscribe link at the bottom. Alternatively, you can email [email protected] with the subject line "Unsubscribe" from the email address receiving our newsletter.

Not currently, but our website is fully responsive and optimized for mobile browsing. We may develop a dedicated app in the future if there's sufficient interest from our community.