Since it’s “Hollywood,” which evokes the baggage and carries the name, you might think that the line to enter the Laugh Factory is designed that way. But it is necessary. There’s little to no waiting area in the dark, multi-story original location on the corner of Sunset and Laurel; “Excuse me” is part of the entrance fee. The enclosed booths and tables are reminiscent of a supper club from movies bygone; the two drink minimum will also remind you of that. Also because…Hollywood, you know two things for sure: parking is going to be sketchy and you’re going to see someone. The latter has proved true since legendary founder Jamie Masada opened the club in 1979 with Richard Pryor on stage. Since then it has been part of the ongoing history of comedians, hosting talent for the iconic logo featuring now superstar Jerrod Carmichael and the now brand name Jordan Peele, as well as programming such as Chocolate Sundaes and All-Star Comedy on Fridays and Saturdays. The video tent is also never short of names you’ll want to remember by the end of the night, and surprise star comics keep guests – and fellow comedians – on their toes. After the performance, everyone wanders on the sidewalk in front, as if they have to hold onto the feeling from within. A photo here, an autograph there, it’s all very…Hollywood. Right? And even that is funny.
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