Nestled in the heart of Austin's bustling 6th Street, Esther's Follies stands as a beacon of satire, magic, and musical comedy. For over 40 years, this modern-day vaudeville revue has entertained audiences with its sharp political commentary and whimsical performances, earning its reputation as a must-see destination for both locals and tourists alike.
A Legacy of Laughter
Established in 1977, Esther's Follies has become synonymous with Austin's vibrant entertainment culture. Often hailed as "Austin's answer to Saturday Night Live," the troupe masterfully blends current events with comedic sketches, ensuring that no topic is too taboo to tackle. Their commitment to reflecting the zeitgeist keeps the material fresh and relevant, making each performance a unique experience.
The Magic of Ray Anderson
A standout feature of Esther's Follies is the mesmerizing magic of Ray Anderson. His award-winning illusions are seamlessly woven into the comedic fabric of the show, leaving audiences both laughing and awestruck. Anderson's charismatic stage presence and mind-boggling tricks add a layer of enchantment that sets Esther's apart from typical comedy clubs.
A Window to the World
One of the most distinctive aspects of Esther's Follies is its stage backdrop: floor-to-ceiling windows that offer a panoramic view of the lively 6th Street. This unique setup allows performers to interact with unsuspecting passersby, blurring the lines between the show and the street. The spontaneous interactions add an element of unpredictability, ensuring that no two shows are ever the same.
Political Satire with a Texas Twist
In a city known for its eclectic mix of cultures and ideas, Esther's Follies embraces the spirit of Austin by delivering sharp political satire that spares no one. Their sketches traverse the political spectrum, offering humorous critiques that resonate with a diverse audience. By tackling both local and national issues, the troupe fosters a sense of unity through shared laughter.
A Hub for Talent
Beyond its regular cast, Esther's Follies has been a launching pad for numerous talents. Notably, Austin counterculture figure Kerry Awn was a regular performer with the troupe for 30 years until 2011. The theater's commitment to nurturing performers has solidified its status as a cornerstone of Austin's comedy scene.
Planning Your Visit
Esther's Follies offers performances every week, with showtimes on Thursdays at 7 PM, and Fridays and Saturdays at 7 PM and 9 PM. Given the show's popularity, it's advisable to purchase tickets in advance through their official website. The theater's location on 6th Street places it amidst a vibrant array of bars and restaurants, making it an ideal centerpiece for a night out in Austin.
Why Esther's Follies Stands Out
In a city brimming with entertainment options, Esther's Follies distinguishes itself through its unique blend of comedy, magic, and musical performances. The seamless integration of current events into their sketches ensures that the content remains fresh and engaging. Moreover, the theater's interactive setup, with its iconic windows to 6th Street, creates a dynamic experience that bridges the gap between performers and the audience.
A Must-Visit Destination
Whether you're a longtime Austin resident or a first-time visitor, Esther's Follies offers an unforgettable experience that encapsulates the city's quirky and creative spirit. From the moment the curtain rises, you’re transported into a world where nothing is sacred, everything is funny, and the unexpected lurks around every corner.
Insider Tips for First-Timers
Planning your first trip to Esther’s Follies? Here’s how to make the most of your visit:
Arrive Early: While Esther’s Follies isn’t assigned seating, showing up early secures a good spot—and lets you soak up the buzzing energy of 6th Street. Plus, you might catch a performer wandering through the crowd or engaging with passersby through the iconic windows.
Best Seats in the House: Want to be in the center of the action? Aim for seats closer to the front for an up-close view of Ray Anderson’s magic tricks and the cast’s expressions. Prefer a broader view? Snag a seat a bit further back to take in the seamless blend of street antics and stage performances.
Post-Show Shenanigans: After the curtain falls, don’t rush off! The area around Esther’s Follies is a hub of live music, bustling bars, and eclectic food trucks. It’s the perfect opportunity to keep the night going with your friends and laugh about your favorite sketches.
Bring an Open Mind: Esther’s thrives on poking fun at everything and everyone. Part of its charm is the fearless comedy that pulls no punches. Come ready to laugh at all sides and join in the fun!
Beyond Comedy: The Esther’s Experience
What makes Esther’s Follies so much more than just a comedy show? It’s the dynamic interplay of performance and audience, magic and satire, laughter and reflection. The troupe crafts an experience where you’re not just watching the show—you’re part of it.
Even if you’ve seen them before, there’s always something new. The ever-changing material, inspired by today’s headlines and cultural trends, ensures that each performance feels fresh and timely. From musical parodies to jaw-dropping illusions, Esther’s Follies is an endless kaleidoscope of creativity.
A Legacy for Austin
Esther’s Follies isn’t just a comedy club—it’s an Austin institution. It’s the type of place where visitors leave saying, “You haven’t truly experienced Austin until you’ve been to Esther’s.” Over four decades of laughter, satirical brilliance, and awe-inspiring magic have firmly cemented its place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike.
Esther’s Follies is also a testament to Austin’s commitment to keeping things weird. In a city that prides itself on individuality and creativity, the Follies encapsulates the spirit of the town like no other venue. It’s unapologetically quirky, refreshingly daring, and quintessentially Austin.
How to Book Your Experience
Tickets for Esther’s Follies can be purchased through their official website. Shows often sell out, especially on weekends, so plan ahead! The theater also accommodates groups, making it a perfect choice for birthday celebrations, corporate outings, or bachelor/bachelorette parties.
Whether you're laughing at a biting parody of current events or gasping at Ray Anderson’s latest illusion, a night at Esther’s Follies is a memory in the making. It's a love letter to Austin's irreverent spirit, a place where comedy and magic collide to create something unforgettable.
A Night to Remember
If you’re searching for the best comedy club in Austin, look no further than Esther’s Follies. From its clever political humor to its enchanting illusions, this legendary venue delivers a uniquely Austin experience. Whether you're a fan of sharp wit, incredible magic, or just a good belly laugh, Esther’s has it all.
So why wait? Grab your tickets, gather your friends, and head to 6th Street for a night that’ll leave your cheeks sore from laughing and your mind buzzing with wonder. At Esther’s Follies, the unexpected is always on the agenda—and we wouldn’t have it any other way.