Secret comedy shows are popping up across Charlotte — here's how to catch the next one

Imagine a stand-up comedy show where the venue and lineup are kept secret. Not a joke — it's all part of the experience at a Don't Tell Comedy event .

Why it matters: The pop-up comedy shows highlight local talent in secret venues around Charlotte as an affordable alternative to traditional comedy clubs. Plus, it's just fun to be part of a secret.

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How it works: After purchasing tickets to a show, you'll get a confirmation that you're on the guest list.

• You won't get any other details, other than the general neighborhood, until the morning of the show.
• You also won't know the lineup until the show starts. Afterward, you'll receive a list of the featured comedians and their social handles.

What to expect: A 90-minute stand-up show featuring a mix of local and traveling comedians that are part of Don't Tell's network.

• 20 local venues have partnered with Don't Tell to host pop-up shows in and around Charlotte, including Paddywax Candle Bar , YVY Training , Dupp & Swat and The Long Room.
• But the comedy shows aren't limited to local businesses, some shows have taken place in people's backyards, adding to the casual vibe that Don't Tell aims to create, says regional producer Will Wright. "It's like you're in on a little secret."
• A general admission ticket is $25 plus fees and many are BYO alcohol.

What's next: Don't Tell's remaining September shows include Saturday, Sept. 13 at 7:30pm and 9:30pm in South End, Friday, Sept. 20 in LoSo and Saturday, Sept. 28 at 8pm in Concord.

Charlotte packed the house at The Long Room (this was even in the midst of one of the worst thunderstorms we've had all summer). Photo: McKenzie Rankin/Axios

What they're saying: "80% of the show is the crowd, and Charlotte always comes through, " says Wright.

• This tracks, considering comedian Matt Rife filmed his Netflix crowd work special "Lucid" at The Comedy Zone earlier this year.

Flashback: Comedian Kyle Kazanjian-Amory founded Don't Tell Comedy in Los Angeles in 2017, after growing tired of the two-drink minimum most comedy clubs require.

• Today, the company hosts shows in over 100 cities across the U.S., Canada and the UK.
• Charlotte held its first show in October 2022 at Paddywax Candle Bar in South End.

The big picture: Comedy shows aren't the only events hosted in secret venues around Charlotte.

• Timeleft connects strangers through dinner parties at local restaurants, where guests receive the location the day of.
• SofarSounds hosts live music performances featuring local artists and venues. When you book, you'll receive only a general description of where it'll be, such as "brewery" or "community space."

My thought bubble: I recently attended a packed-out show at The Long Room in Plaza Midwood with two local comics (shout-out Christine McLennan and Jimmy Briggs ) and four from Atlanta.

• It's not an exaggeration to say I laughed until I cried.

Go deeper: This secret location comedy show is creating stars