A group of Friends and I attended the comedy show in Honolulu, and I have to say, it was an…read moreunforgettable night! From start to finish. We did pre-game so when we got there we were pretty tipsy. The ticket price were pretty cheap, only $20 which comes with 2 complimentary alcoholic or nonalcoholic beverages. After making a fool of ourselves with the bartender and sitting in the 2nd row from the stage! We come to realize the bartender was the host/comedian. Oh boy! Did he clown all of us! Which was pretty funny! The rest of the lineup was full of talent and energy that kept the audience laughing non-stop. The venue itself was cozy but lively, creating the perfect atmosphere for a night of comedy. The intimate setting made it feel like you were right there with the performers, which really added to the experience. The comedians each brought their own unique style and humor to the stage, covering everything from local life in Hawaii to universal experiences. One comedian in particular had the crowd in stitches with their hilarious observations about island culture. It's clear they have a deep understanding of the nuances that make this place so special--and they nailed it. If you're in Honolulu and looking for a night full of laughs, this comedy show is definitely worth checking out. It's a great blend of local flavor and universal humor, and you're guaranteed to leave with a smile on your face!

I love that this place is so much more than just a comedy club. They host a variety of events,…read moreprivate parties, and great comics (and a few in training). The owner Pepper Lamb is funny AF and very hospitable. Give this place a try!

I wanted to visit a comedy club, and I decided to go to one while we're on our vacation in Hawaii…read more I found this place on Yelp, and I got tickets for my sis and I. We went on a Wednesday night, and we had some laughs. The comedians were pretty funny in some moments. We also got some chips/dips to share plus a couple of sodas. The space was pretty intimate and cool. It was nice to try out a comedy club there in Oahu, but there are definitely better ones in CA.

Fantastic and necessary venue that supports Hawaii's comedians! Hawaii has an amazingly vibrant…read morecomedy scene and Comedy U develops talent.

Writing in from New Jersey, and still thinking about this show!…read more From the moment you walk in, you're placed into this beautifully curated museum of oddities that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the evening. It's immersive, thoughtful, and has a little bit of history. Once inside the theater, the stage design continues that experience, reflecting King David's travels with what feels like carefully collected souvenirs from his travels around the world. I loved how the history was woven in so seamlessly. It actually sent me down a rabbit hole learning more about Hawaii's last monarch afterwards haha. The show itself? Phenomenal. Aki and Ken are not only incredibly skilled magicians; both masters of sleight of hand and parlor magic respectively, but also genuinely hilarious. Their chemistry carries the entire experience, and they stayed perfectly in theme with the Hawaiian Victorian atmosphere in the magic they performed. I won't spoil anything, but I will say I was left completely mind-blown. There were moments that genuinely didn't seem possible, and just when you think you've caught your breath, another reveal hits. It just kept building, which is the type of magic I really enjoy watching. The venue is intimate and seats about 60 guests. There truly isn't a bad one in the house. Being that close makes everything even more impressive because there are no trap doors, no mirrors, nothing to hide behind. The magic happens right in front of you, and somehow that makes it even harder to believe. They also do a great job with audience participation, which adds to the fun without ever feeling forced or awkward. The show does sell out, so definitely grab tickets ahead of time. It's absolutely worth it, and I'd recommend it to anyone visiting Honolulu!

Oh my goodness, buy the tickets!!! This show is amazing!!!!…read more I found it through some Google search I did when trying to find something fun for my family and I to do for my birthday. I thought it was some ad for a show in the mainland or a scam because I've never heard of it before nor have I ever seen the theatre it was in. My daughter is 7 and I thought, "She's never seen magic before. Maybe she'll like this." Totally forgot all about it then on my birthday was scrambling to figure out what to do for fun and Google slid it back in to my searches. The ticket prices aren't bad especially if you're local. They have a bundle that gets you 1 adult and 1 child ticket for $99. The tickets for the 3 of us came out to just about $200. The ticket includes validation for Valet parking and a rum punch cocktail. The drink must've been good because I turned around for a second and my husband tanked it. It's at Hilton Waikiki Beach on Kuhio across from the Alohilani Hotel (the old Pacific Beach). I'm glad I read my confirmation email well because I thought it was at Hilton Hawaiian Village. The parking for the hotel is only Valet. We went on a Monday night to the 7:30 show and Valet was gnarly, backed up into the street. Be aware of the time it can take to get your car valeted. The show is on the second floor. The line forms right above the main hotels entrance doors. Our plans got pushed back a bit so we were running late. We ended up far back in the line and sat in the 4th row. It really didn't matter though because you can see the action from everywhere. Our magician was Shoot Ogawa. I'm not gonna give away anything about his tricks because you should get that feeling in real time. He is UNREAL. UN. REAL. Even the tricks that were supposed to be "small" were mind blowing. It was awesome to unanimously have the crowd go "WHATTTTTT" and "HEYYYYY." I know I let out a couple WTF's. I know the adults in that room had to all be skeptics, so to equally be blown away feels comforting. Like ok I'm not crazy, this stuff is inexplicable!! While he does his tricks he also talks a lot about life, his journey, humanity. He talked a lot to the kids encouraging them. He talked about how negative opinions aren't yours too keep, and knowing your value is inside. IT WAS AMAZING!!! He was preaching and cracking jokes and magicianing all at the same time the ENTIRE show. They don't allow video recording, only photos which explains why I couldn't find ANYTHING worthwhile on YouTube. Honestly, after watching the show, I appreciated that. It made everything so much more entertaining. Afterwards, you can take pictures with him and they have some merchandise you can purchase. They have little magic kits available for purchase, so on the way home we were all trying to be magicians as we ran through all the tricks that absolutely BLEW OUR MINDS. Literally the most stressful part of the entire experience was the Valet parking and dealing with Waiks traffic at night. None of that though made this experience any less worth it. BUY THE TICKETS!!! You WON'T regret it!!!!

The comics were funny - really funny. And I would give this 5 stars. But the location was TERRIBLE…read more It's in a room in the convention center garage building with a makeshift stage and conference chairs. Really uncomfortable and the lighting was blinding the comics. There's a folding table in the hall with overpriced drinks you can take inside the room... but then you have to hold the drinks on your lap. If they ever 'fix' the location, I'd love to try it again.

Seen this comedy show in Vegas and had a great time. The comedians are great. Can't wait to see it…read moreagain

I was fortunate to get to attend the Kevin Hughes show last night....it was REALLY FUNNY!....you…read moreknow how I could tell?? I laughed...and so did my husband!..... Kevin is a very talented comedian who captures the essence of people and does a great job in relaying that to the audience....I was amazed at how much he could talk and talk and talk! If you enjoy looking at the humor of people, you'll enjoy Kevin. Had dinner at Chuck's Cellar next door at the Ohana East....it was all a perfect evening...park your car, have a nice dinner and then on to Kevin Hughes' show...I highly recommend it.!

I bought a Groupon for this show. I paid about $15 for 2 tickets. Bargain? We also had to buy a…read moredrink each. Well, the "host" came out and started the show. I felt bad for this woman. She was dressed like a homeless person and worse than that, she wasn't funny at all. She introduced I think 4 other comedians. 2 of the comedians were funny, one was Shawn Felipe and the other was a "Kramer" type comedian. One of them was a little funny and a comedian named Arthur Wayne was not funny at all. He was just creepy. The venue is small and the waitress comes to your table to take your drink order. The night we went, the room was not even half full. All in all, it was a night out.

This was a great venue with an intimate setup to have a great view of the musicians…read more The show was short at only about an hour, but it was packed with great music from Iam Tongi's band. The food was less than average and quite pricey so I would recommend eating beforehand!

Rating the FOOD only!! Expensive and subpar quality…read more The poke nachos were decent. The bbq ribs were DRY! Like super dry. Daughter choked on it trying to swallow it because it was so dry. Husband couldnt even finish his dish and he usually is not picky with foods. The short rib loco moco was okay. The gravy tasted very "cheap". Thats the only word I can think of to describe it. The short rib was decent (wouldnt say it was good, but it was edible). The favorite part of this dish was the white rice which was soft. I like the venue but unfortunately I wouldnt go back since its $20 minimum per person for purchasing food/drinks.

Awesomely Funny ! We really admire and respect Improvhi. They we're slapstick funny. It takes a…read morespecial person to act on the dime in front of people they don't know. I loved loved loved the Rap it antics & the Christmas Switch scene. We will definitely be back again. 1st Saturday of the month it's free to the public. All you have to do is sign up and be on time. Make sure to leave a donation at the end of the show. It's well worth seeing again and again. Note...I did state in my Tip that they don't validate parking. At the end of the show, the team does provide you with a Pitch Sports Bar coupon to enjoy 10% off & Pitch will validate your parking. How sweet is that

I haven't been to the Improv HI location but I did manage to see some of the actors of Improv Hi…read moreperform at The Scratch Paper Sketch Comedy Show at the Kaka'ako Agora on Saturday night October 3, 2015. I enjoyed watching the actors read from the manuscripts and watching the facial expressions in their rough draft stage. I also liked it when few of the actors did the hand motions during their readings. I would like to see the actors memorize their lines and see how the final short comedy sketch will turn out on screen. I also enjoyed watching the previously recorded short films that other members of Improv Hi had done. The short film that I really enjoyed was comedian actor Kevin Yee's GAY LOVE. It had a catchy tune that the audience members sang a long "You can't get pregnant from Gay Love." Kimee, the founder of Improv Hi, mentioned to the audience that anyone can participate and write comedy sketches by attending the workshops. I can already imagine my updated review for Leonard's Bakery as a short comedy sketch.

OVERALL SATISTFACTION: 10 of 10. 5 of 5 stars, Na ka…read moreoi...simply da bes! Keeping in mind that 1. I love live music, theater and big screen films. And 2. I haven't resided in the islands since the mid-90s. With that said, I have been here for several shows and I purposely flown in for some and other were just the lowest of consolation prizes for having to fly away from loved ones due to my job taking me to another "twist my arm" experience = Stay on Oahu. I joke of course, but in earnest, growing up with the lights of Broadway and hundreds of concert venues nearby, I take my theater experiences very seriously and the Hawaii Theater meets any and every want/need one could dream of. For me it exceeds most. Please allow me to define... MY EXPERIENCES: I have been to a Christmas show, on my birthday, featuring Amy Hanaiali'i and, the much beloved and missed, Willie K (R.I.P.), which included a wonderful meet and greet. On another visit to HNL I just happened to be around for a Beach Boys show and was fortunate enough to get a ticket for it. And most recently, I flew in for a showing of The Princess Bride which featured a meet and greet of Cary Elwes. AT THE TOP: The President of the Hawaii Theater, Gregory Dunn is super humble, very polite and amazingly professional in every aspect. Best of all, he gets involved in the pre-show activities be it guiding folks to where they need to be or ensuring we understand the process of a meet and greet. Ya gotta love when there is no job below those in charge. He sets an example that many could benefit from if their eyes are truly open. SECURITY: If you have been to downtown Honolulu, you know it hasn't been a place that gets touted around the globe for it's cleanliness or safety. HPD has had their hands full over the years. Stores may have closed and some issues still exist, but overall I feel that the area has been improving greatly and adding to the return of a safer feeling neighborhood is the Hawaii Theater's security team. Yes, they are the most amazing group of people that one could want to see at an event. These guys are the, literally, the muscle that keeps things in order and flowing, from bag checks to ensuring reentry folks have wristbands. They operate like a finely tuned engine. As a concert goer that has been to well over 500 shows globally, I recognize these folks as the best. I will even go as far as to say that actually recognize some of them since my last visit a couole years back, which means that the team is sticking together. With that stated, not once have I had any safety concerns with these guys on duty... and still downtown can be questionable at times. STAFF OF THE THEATER: From the box office staff to those assigned to scan your tickets and give out VIP wristbands, these folks know how to keep the lines moving. Once inside there are strategically placed individuals, as one would expect. Folks there to give you direction to restrooms or concessions and then you have the ushers, those folks who are much more than a uniformed someone with a flashlight who is unfamiliar with the venue layout. These folks are amazing, they will get you to your seat in a timely, professional manner. Last but not least, are the bartenders... the fashionable, handlebar mustachioed bartender I met a few shows back was here again... and I always find him to be a terrific conversationalist (when time allots), incredibly professional and truly represents the venue as best as any one could. Put all these compliments together under one roof and you get one of the best theater experiences you could hope to ever find. You should come to downtown and find out for yourself... and you'll be a repeat offender, like me, (END NOTE: I fly in from the mainland for touring shows I could easily opt to catch on the mainland, and for a cheaper overall hit to the wallet. The Hawaii Theater, as defined above, is truly the deciding factor).

Walking into the Hawai'i Theatre, you're instantly transported into another era. An era of soft…read moreelegance and timeless artistry. From the moment you pass through the doors, you're surrounded by a blend of old-world elegance and Hawaiian warmth. Built in 1922, the theatre has hosted everything from silent films and Broadway plays to concerts and Hula performances. Today it seats about 1,400 guests, offering an intimate experience where every seat feels close to the stage. The acoustics are excellent, the seats are comfortable, and the staff and volunteers are friendly, welcoming, and genuinely helpful. There's also a small bar and lounge with high-tops, perfect for enjoying a drink and conversation before the show. Inside the theater, you see tall, fluted Corinthian-style columns that are richly detailed. The curved arch overhead is decorated with mosaic-style tiles in warm tones,and I absolutely LOVE the lush deep red velvet curtains that frame the stage. They add so much warmth and elegance. Having attended many shows throughout the years, I've always been mesmerized by the mural above the stage and decided to do some Googling while waiting for the show to begin. I learned it's Lionel Walden's Glorification of the Drama. The painting depicts a grand procession of mythic figures -- a golden-robed muse in her chariot, attendants, musicians, a lion handler -- all celebrating the power of theater. The central figure, often interpreted as the Personification of Drama, leads the way. Knowing that part of the mural was once lost to water damage and later painstakingly restored makes it even more meaningful. Parking is easy at the municipal garage on Bethel Street, just a block away. The short walk is now well-lit, a welcome improvement from years past when it was dark and sketchy. Entertaining audiences for over 100 years, the Hawaii Theater is a recognized as a National Historic Landmark. Attending a show here, you're not just watching a performance, you're also living and breathing a beautiful piece of Hawaii's historic culture.

Stand up comedy on another level! They think so fast on their feet and loved the audience…read moreinteraction. They even offer classes on Tuesday and Thursday if you are interested for yourself. Super fun and cool to watch! Can't wait for the next show in the future! They perform every first and third Saturdays!

The instructors Mr…read moreAaron is good looking -- He was on Tony & Tina's Wedding. His classes are great, and the duo Roy and Melissa are fun instructors as well! They are all youthful career seasoned improvisors! Lucky if you get them as an instructor. They teach the teachers/instructors who take on the classes. You have Matt who's a Psychology grad, comedian McDonut, etc. Classes Classes are as fun as you want them to be, depends on the imagination (; I've grown from it, my corporate/retired friends I'd bring along have grown from it. You learn communication techniques you can use in life, at home or work, for relationships. They will always show up, and classes vary in sizes and people. Sometimes I see the regular guys like myself, but we might all/each be at different days. There is never any pressure to take a class, signup for a month. They keep you updated on upcoming events too usually performances at Jazzmind (in the past was Ong King Arts Center) you must try their Brewhahas done last saturdays of the month not all months so keep an eye out! Prices Prices are the best, affordable & worth every penny better than signing up at acting groups across the island. These guys are improv. When i signed up at other actor classes, anytime they go over improv I just want to leave them and come back to these guys because they got the best value at lower costs i dont want to spend my time and money at other improv sessions. These guys bring you the best, so stick around and find out. Cash/online methods with card for flexibility. Venues They've always picked fun venues to do improv, for classes or shows! Most importantly they havent changed their $rates in the 3 years I've dropped in. Really can depend on them! -- Take advantage of their month discount rates if you have 4 or 5 tuesdays to spare. They have also offered thursdays. It varies. There is always parking around. Like street or free parking garage nearby. Will post more photos at checkins!

The Studio At Hawaiian Brian's Let me start off by saying-…read moreI'm trying to be helpful. I'm not a write 1 negative review and never come back to Yelp- I do have over 500 reviews as of writing this- so I would appreciate not having negative comments coming back to me as this is only my humble opinion both as a reviewer and a aficionado of great music. I like the space, it is unique in that it is so small. That isn't negative- it lets the audience be right there with the band and the band can clearly see the reactions of faces of fans and hopeful fans. This is a real confidence raiser for those on open mic night to be able to see a crowd enjoy their music. Did I mention it is small? Even as small as it is- there is a large bar facing the bandstand. In a way - it is hard for fans to get used to, There are 2 large eye focuses. The bar or the bandstand. I don't know why there are two focal points- is it to keep people for going in and out during a concert? There are other smaller mobile bars that they have in other areas -like Crossroads. But it is a large bar compared to the stage. Do be aware though of what kind of band you are paying for in advance. It can be disappointing if you pay what I would consider full price for a show and it is less than you expected. Google/ Facebook/ Amazon the band and then you should have a better idea of the bands quality- because they are playing in a realllllllly small venue. If you don't want to pay for a small venue show -then wait. I have been to about 50 different music venues in Austria and Germany and seen many different types of shows- from classical to modern music, and the venue really does influence your experience. Depending on the band- I like having a small small venue to hear them- it is not a coffeehouse feel where there is a phsishhhshshsh sound every 2 minutes so the sound quality is better than coffee houses - but has the feel of a coffee house where you can drink. I think the Safehouse/ Republik is a better venue - comparing Honolulu venues to Honolulu venues. My advice is still to know what band it is you are going to see and enjoy the band you are going to see- regardless of the venue because supporting local artists is a wonderful way of promoting local music.

Calling all 18+ -- Here's a place you can come to check out your awesome friends who are in great…read morebands and even make more friends who like the same music as you. The Studio is a small bar located as the first door on your right once you enter Hawaiian Brians. You don't need to go passed security checking your ID so it's definitely good for those who aren't legal. Did I mention it's really small? I was here for an EP Release party, another band and an independent musician and his friend opened up for them that night. This was a great example of the talent Hawaii has to offer. If you really like to be in an intimate settings where you can be as close to the band as possible without possibly hurting your ear drums this is the place. The space is very chill, people come and sit at the tables, grab a drink at the bar, stand. It probably won't be as intimate if your friend's band is extremely popular. If that were the case you should tell your friends to consider the Crossroads which is the larger venue in Hawaiian Brians. If you don't like live music, or people, or need your space at all times, I don't think these places are for you. If you're into live music, like people and have the opportunity to catch a conversation with the people making music you like than definitely stop by. There's always these kinds of events happening at the Studio and at Hawaiian Brian. I suggest you check out if you want to get into the Hawaii music scene, this place is a start.