Comedy Club

Comedy Club (also known as Jamel Comedy Club) is a Paris venue entirely dedicated to stand-up comedy, located on Boulevard de Bonne-Nouvelle in the city's 10th arrondissement. For well over a decade it has been a launchpad for French stand-up, giving early stages to comedians who later became household names.

Where did this venue come from?

The story starts in 2006 with a Canal+ television show created by comedian Jamel Debbouze together with director Kader Aoun, inspired by the American Def Comedy Jam format. The show's success pushed Debbouze to open a permanent stage — first in a small theatre near the Moulin Rouge, then, in April 2008, at its current address, simply named Comedy Club. The building previously operated as a cinema and underwent several months of renovation before opening, giving the interior a look reminiscent of New York-style comedy clubs.

How do you get there?

The venue sits in Paris's 10th arrondissement, in the Grands Boulevards district, right next to Bonne Nouvelle metro station (lines 8 and 9) — just a short walk from the entrance. That makes it an easy stop for visitors staying in central Paris, close to several other theatres and concert halls lined up along the grand boulevards.

What will you see?

The room seats around 120 people and can hold up to 250 standing. The stage sits close to the audience, creating the intimate feel typical of comedy clubs, where performers and spectators are practically within arm's reach of each other. Several shows run each day, usually starting in the evening, and the program mixes stand-up sets, musical acts, and open-mic sessions where new comedians try out material in front of a live crowd.

For years the club has worked as a kind of talent nursery: Jamel Debbouze and his team scout and promote young comedians long before they reach bigger stages or television. That keeps the lineup varied, pairing established names with performers who are still building an audience.

When should you visit?

Shows run year-round, with Friday and Saturday evenings typically offering the fullest lineups. Because the room is small, booking tickets ahead is worth doing, especially when a well-known act or a special show is on the bill. For visitors after an authentic, close-up taste of Parisian humor, this is one of the best spots in the city — though it's worth knowing that most performances are in French, which matters if you don't speak the language.

Frequently asked questions

What is Comedy Club in Paris? It's a Paris venue in the 10th arrondissement dedicated entirely to stand-up comedy, also known as Jamel Comedy Club after its founder, comedian Jamel Debbouze.

When did the club open? It opened in April 2008, though its roots trace back to a 2006 television show that helped popularize stand-up comedy in France.

How many people does the room hold? Around 120 seated, or up to 250 standing — a small scale that keeps performers and the audience close together.

How do you get to the club? The easiest way is by metro to Bonne Nouvelle station (lines 8 and 9), just a short walk from the entrance.