MORE THAN LAUGHS: COSMIC COMEDY BERLIN
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Issue 11 4
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February 2024
VARIED PROGRAMME AND ARTISTS Dharmander and Neil have been doing and organising comedy all over the world for more than 20 years, so they know how to put on a great live stand-up comedy show
How do Neil and Dharmander choose their acts? And can anyone take the microphone and get on stage? “On Thursdays, we organise open mic shows with a great mix of first-timers and professional acts from all over the world,” explains Dharmander. “We make sure that new acts get priority to get on stage,” adds Neil. “Cosmic Comedy Berlin is like a safe space. Newcomers can perform in front of a huge, friendly crowd in a comfortable, well-meaning environment.” Fridays and Saturdays at Cosmic Comedy Berlin mean showcase shows. These are the days when the best of the local scene, as well as a long list of international acts, perform their best sets. On days like these, guests may be lucky enough to catch some
PHOTOS: COSMIC COMEDY BERLIN
“One of the most outstanding features of Cosmic Comedy Berlin is its super friendly, welcoming atmosphere,” stresses founder Dharmander Singh, who set up the club with his friend Neil Numb in 2014. “We pride ourselves,” adds Neil, “on being one of Berlin’s friendliest comedy clubs. Cosmic Comedy Berlin is the opposite of the dreaded bear pit. Our approach to stand-up comedy is that it should entertain people and make them laugh. Which is why we ask our acts to get on stage and tell jokes; to make people laugh, not to abuse them. So even if you are sitting
in the front row, you won’t get picked on or abused.” “Well, unless you are talking or using your phone. In that case, you might get some very strong opinions,” Dharmander interjects with a wink.
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Cosmic Comedy Berlin is not just a venue, it is a realm of exceptional entertainment that stands out in Berlin’s cultural landscape. As one of Berlin’s first English-speaking comedy clubs, Cosmic Comedy Berlin has become an icon of Berlin’s English-speaking stand-up comedy scene.
that gets the crowd going. With Cosmic Comedy Berlin and its wonderful mix of local and international comedians, the two founders have created a place where people can come together, have a good laugh, feel safe and get to know each other.
TEXT: SILKE HENKELE
In Berlin-Mitte, one of the most creative areas of Germany’s capital, an oasis of English stand-up comedy has set up shop: Cosmic Comedy Berlin redefines hearty laughter and amused chuckles.