Live Nation agrees The Comedy Store partnership

Live Nation has struck a franchise deal with The Comedy Store, bringing stand-up events under the brand to more cities across the UK.

The strategic partnership marks the first initiative of its kind for The Comedy Store, which has collaborated with Live Nation on more than 500 shows under the banner over the past six years.

“The Comedy Store has a rich heritage of nurturing the brightest stars in comedy while delivering top-tier live experiences to audiences,” says Live Nation’s president European comedy touring Ian Coburn. “This agreement underscores our belief in the enduring appeal of live comedy and The Comedy Store’s ability to cultivate talent and connect with audiences.”

The Comedy Store, which debuted in the UK in 1979, hosts 3,500 attendees weekly in its 450-cap London venue in Soho, and has launched the careers of comedians such as Eddie Izzard and Jimmy Carr. It also launched a Manchester site in 2000.

“By creating more comedy club venues, we’re ensuring that audiences across the UK can enjoy the very best in stand-up comedy”

“We are proud to play a part in The Comedy Store’s next chapter,” adds Anna Cooke, Live Nation’s VP of European comedy touring. “This partnership reflects our commitment to fostering platforms where talent can thrive. We’re committed to offering audiences across the UK the very best in stand-up comedy, while offering new stages for both emerging and established performers.”

The Comedy Store’s founder and CEO Don Ward describes the link-up as a “natural evolution”.

“This partnership with Live Nation is a natural evolution for The Comedy Store,” he says. “With nearly 45 years of history, we’ve built a reputation as a leader in stand-up comedy. This franchise agreement enables us to bring our signature experience to new markets, meeting the growing demand for live comedy.”

Meanwhile, Deadline reports that Live Nation Productions is teaming on new comedy flick Rolling Loud. Based around the eponymous hip-hop festival, it will star Owen Wilson and Matt Rife. Wilson made a surprise appearance during Travis Scott’s headline performance at the Miami edition on Saturday (14 December) to shoot a scene for the film.

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