Comedy Club Review: Penguin's Comedy Club in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
United States of America
Neither of us had been to Penguin's Comedy Club, but I was not expecting much. I know that comedy clubs are notorious for being dives.
When you walk in the front door, you go down a flight of steps into a dingy basement. The walls are mirrored, and the carpet is old and dirty. There are tables and chairs that have probably been there since Penguin's grand opening several years ago.
What was great about the place was that we were able to see two great comics up close and personal. They stood on a small stage (nearly hitting their heads on the low ceiling) and kept us laughing. Mike Toomey opened the night with a 40 minute set. Louis CK followed with an hour of his great "punch in your gut" comedy. The highlight of the night came after the show when we were able to shake hands and talk with Louis CK.
Overpriced Drinks, Stale Popcorn, Lots of Laughs
We drank overpriced drinks. There is a reason why Penguin's does not list prices on their menus. The last laugh will definitely be on you when you get the bill. I had three $8.00 martinis, and my husband had a beer and a couple of Black Russians. We also had a basket of stale, $2.00 popcorn. Although everything was overpriced, the drinks were good and the entertainment (costing only $37.00 for two tickets) was well worth it.
My one suggestion: stay away from the popcorn!
Special Offers - Special Nights
Penguin's website www.penguinscomedyclub.com has a lot of great information and special offers. The site is best viewed in Internet Explorer.
Not only does Penguin's offer a venue for famous comedians, but they support local talent as well.
On the last Thursday of every month is Amateur Night. The rules are that you can perform for free as long as you bring a friend. If you don't bring an audience member it is $10.00 to perform. You get five minutes of stage time to get some laughs. Admission for non-performers is $5.00.
Penguin's Comedy Club offers a birthday club. Sign up and they will send you two free tickets for your celebration.
Check out www.penguinscomedyclub.com for upcoming attractions.
Take in a Show
Penguin's Comedy Club is located at 209 1st Avenue SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Penguin's Comedy Club also has one other location in Davenport, Iowa.
Published by Ada Noll
I tend to dance to the beat of the syllables in the dictionary. -always and forever curious- View profile
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6 Comments
Post a CommentWe have now moved to the Clarion Hotel at 525 33rd Ave. SW. I am the manager of the club and agree with this review of the old club (The popcorn). I would hope you will come to our new room and enjoy a night of comedy soon. If you have any questions contact the club at 319-362-8133. Hope to see you soon.
Nice review.
Good -- objective -- review.
Very fun review~We haven't been to a comedy club in years. How great that you had the chance to talk to the comics after the show!
Fun. The ticket prices sound reasonable. It's also great that you have a chance to meet the performers.
Great review! I love comedy clubs.