Comedy Hits Rock Bottom at Midtown BBQ

Nagoya Comedy?

So, have you hit rock bottom in Nagoya this weekend? Perfect timing! "Nagoya Comedy? Night!" returns like a persistent rash at Midtown BBQ this Saturday, February 22, proving that hope truly does spring eternal.

Welcome to Nagoya's premier gathering of aspiring comedians who've mistaken their Japanese coworkers' polite laughs for actual humor. Hosted by the inexhaustible Mark Bailey (whose claim to fame remains "that one time at the conbini"), this evening promises to be a masterclass in cultural miscommunication and thinly veiled cries for help.

You could be at home, enjoying a lovely toenail clipping session. Instead, you'll find yourself wedged between a sweaty salaryman and an ALT who thinks every story about their inaka job placement deserves its own Netflix special. The doors open at 19:30, giving you plenty of time to question your life choices before the show stumbles to life at 20:00.

A Small Price For Your Dignity!
For the bargain price of ¥1,000 (roughly equivalent to your dignity), you'll witness comics who learned their Japanese from anime and aren't afraid to prove it, that one guy who's definitely reading his jokes off his phone, and at least three stories about dating apps in Japan that sound eerily familiar (did you date this guy?).

But wait, there's more! The Open Mic Contest * returns, offering brave (or delusional) souls their shot at glory. Got a groundbreaking bit about konbini food? A revolutionary take on Japanese customer service? Three minutes is all you need to make everyone deeply uncomfortable! The "winner" – as determined by audience pity – walks away with a FREE BEER, because liquid courage should be rewarded with more liquid courage.

Word of Warning!
No recording devices are allowed. We're doing these performers a favor by ensuring their attempts at humor don't haunt them on social media for eternity.

The event runs until 22:00, or until someone attempts their fifth "Japanese people be like..." joke, whichever comes first.

The Details

(For those still committed to this decision)

Venue: Midtown BBQ
Date: Saturday, February 22
Doors Open: 19:30
"Show": 20:00-22:00
Damage to Your Self-Esteem:
¥1,000 (cash only, no refunds, no responsibility accepted for emotional trauma)

Follow Nagoya Comedy on Facebook, or catch Episode 41 of the Talk Funny Podcast to hear what you're getting yourself into.

Remember: In a city where the biggest entertainment is watching the Sakae Ferris Wheel go up and down, this might be your best Saturday night option.

*Open mic participants must purchase a ticket because paying to embarrass yourself is peak comedy.