Orange County, FL — The local comedy scene in Orlando is experiencing a vibrant resurgence as up-and-coming performers take to stages across the city with fresh material, diverse perspectives, and sold-out shows. From intimate open mic nights in Mills 50 to polished acts at The Orlando Improv, a new generation of comedians is reshaping the region’s cultural landscape — one punchline at a time.

Long known for its family-friendly entertainment and theme park spectacles, Orlando is now becoming a destination for live stand-up. At the heart of this movement is the Orlando Comedy Club, a local venue in the Ivanhoe Village neighborhood that’s seen a spike in attendance since the pandemic-era lull. Owner and booker Rachel Simmons credits the rise in local talent and “a hunger for real, raw laughter.”

"People are looking for something relatable, and our comics are delivering that — often with just a stool, a mic, and brutal honesty,” she said.

Among the standouts is 26-year-old Carlos Rivera, who recently headlined at Bonkerz Comedy Club in downtown Orlando and is now preparing for a mini-tour across Florida. His observational humor about growing up bicultural in Kissimmee has resonated widely, drawing both Latino and non-Latino fans.

“I talk about my abuela, my busted Corolla, and dating apps — everyone gets it,” Rivera joked during a recent set.fun4seminolekids.com

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Open mic nights remain a crucial testing ground for talent. At Drunken Monkey Coffee Bar and Austin’s Coffee in Winter Park, newcomers try out five-minute sets every week. Events like Comedy at Stardust, a long-running show hosted in the back of a retro-video store café, regularly sell out — proof that local support for comedy is strong and growing.

Behind the scenes, The Central Florida Comedy Alliance has launched a mentorship program, pairing newer comics with veterans who’ve performed nationally. “It’s all about building community, not just competition,” said organizer and comic Tanya Tran.

The scene’s diversity is also increasing. Recent showcases like “Funny AF” and “Out Loud Orlando” have featured LGBTQ+ performers and comedians of color, expanding the reach and richness of Orlando’s comedy voice.

Even theme parks are getting in on the action. Universal CityWalk has brought in late-night-style comedy revues as part of its rotating entertainment, providing additional paid gigs for local comics.

Nationally recognized comedians like Hasan Minhaj, Nikki Glaser, and Jo Koy have all performed in Orange County this year, giving local openers major exposure. “Performing before Jo Koy was surreal,” said Orlando-based comic Keenan Brooks. “I’ve been grinding for years, and suddenly there I was — in front of 2,000 people.”

Local comedy festivals are also on the rise. The Orlando Indie Comedy Fest, scheduled for September 2025, will host over 40 acts from across the Southeast and provide workshops on writing, branding, and self-production.

As for the future, Simmons is optimistic. “This isn’t just a moment. Orlando is becoming a comedy city. And the best part? We’re just getting started.”

Laughs on the Rise: Orlando’s Comedy Scene Welcomes a New Wave of Talent

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