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Esther's Follies: The Crown Jewel of Austin Comedy Clubs

  • Writer: Kaitlyn Cole
    Kaitlyn Cole
  • 1 day ago
  • 3 min read

In the heart of Austin, where the margaritas flow like water and the live music never stops, there's a place that takes comedy, magic, and satire, tosses them into a blender, and serves up a cocktail of entertainment that's as potent as a Texas-sized hurricane. Welcome to Esther's Follies, the unrivaled monarch of the Austin comedy scene.​





A Brief History: From Humble Beginnings to Comedy Royalty


Picture it: Austin, 1977. A time when disco was king, and bell-bottoms were wider than the Texas horizon. Amidst this groovy backdrop, a group of comedic visionaries decided that the city needed a place where satire, magic, and musical mayhem could coexist. Thus, Esther's Follies was born, named cheekily after the swimming sensation Esther Williams, because why not?​


The original venue was a cozy spot, but like any good Texan tale, disaster struck in 1982 when a fire reduced it to ashes. Did that stop the Follies? Heck no! They roamed the city like comedic nomads before planting their flag firmly on Sixth Street, where they've been serving up laughs ever since.



The Show: A Smorgasbord of Satire and Sorcery

At Esther's Follies, no topic is off-limits. From political blunders to pop culture mishaps, the troupe dives headfirst into the absurdity of it all. One moment, you're watching a scathing musical number about the latest political scandal; the next, a magician is making your disbelief disappear faster than a politician's promise.​


Speaking of magic, the illusions here aren't your run-of-the-mill rabbit-out-of-a-hat tricks. We're talking mind-bending feats that will have you questioning reality and checking your pockets to make sure your wallet hasn't vanished.​





Location, Location, Location

Nestled on the infamous Sixth Street, Esther's Follies offers more than just a show—it's an experience. The venue's large windows allow passersby to sneak a peek, often leading to impromptu street performances and interactions that blur the line between audience and performer. It's like reality TV, but without the guilt of admitting you watch reality TV.​


Why Esther's Follies Stands Out in the Austin Comedy Scene


  • Longevity: Over four decades of delivering top-notch entertainment. In a world where trends change faster than a chameleon on a rainbow, that's no small feat.​

  • Diverse Acts: A seamless blend of comedy, music, and magic. It's like a buffet where every dish is your favorite.​

  • Interactive Experience: The audience isn't just watching; they're part of the show. So, if you're shy, maybe don't sit in the front row.​

  • Political Satire: In a city as politically charged as Austin, the Follies' sharp wit cuts through the noise, offering a comedic take on the chaos that is modern politics.​



Testimonials: Don't Just Take Our Word for It

"An absolute must-see in Austin! Esther's Follies is the epitome of what makes this city weird and wonderful." – A Satisfied Audience Member​


"The humor is smart, very current, and the performers are top notch. The entire feeling of the theatre is intimate and engaging." – Another Happy Customer ​


Note: Some quotes have been paraphrased for comedic effect. But trust us, the sentiment remains the same!





Planning Your Visit


  • Showtimes: Performances run multiple times a week. Check the official website for the latest schedule. ​

  • Tickets: Available online and at the box office. Pro tip: Book in advance to snag the best seats.​

  • Age Restrictions: While the humor is mature, it's all in good fun. However, maybe leave the kiddos at home for this one.​


The Reigning Champion of Austin Comedy Clubs


In a city teeming with entertainment options, Esther's Follies remains a beacon for those seeking a night of unbridled laughter and amazement. So, the next time you find yourself in Austin, make your way to Sixth Street and let Esther's Follies show you why they're the best in the biz.​






 
 
 
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