They say laughter is the best medicine, and if you want a fine night of healing comedy, you need a good venue in which to sit back, relax and let loose. The 2023 readers’ choice Best of the County winner is 142 Throckmorton Theatre (pictured above). For the rest of the Marin Magazine‘s Best of Marin County Comedy Venue picks see below.
Our 2023 Arts & Entertainment category sponsor is Gene Hiller.
We’ve broken it down by region: Southern, Central, and Northern Marin.
Southern | Central | Northern
Southern Marin
142 Throckmorton Theatre
Mill Valley
Art and community are at the heart of everything the Throckmorton Theatre does. Take in the historical atmosphere and the gorgeous wall-to-ceiling murals as you find your seat in what they proudly call “a people’s theatre.” They offer more than just shows, however, also hosting workshops, dance classes, chorus and after-school programs for those who want to get two kinds of education at the same time. Check the website for show details. Tickets are available online, or on a first-come, first-serve basis one hour before the show.
142 Throckmorton Ave., Mill Valley, 415.383.9600
Central Marin
Marin Art and Garden Center
Ross
The unique gardens are a pleasure to meander through and the art exhibitions aren’t to be missed. But a lesser known draw of the Marin Art and Garden Center are the theatrical events that pop up. Sometimes that’s a summer kids’ theater camp, sometimes that’s a comedy troupe hosting an event; either way, it’s a treat in this gorgeous outdoor setting. Hours are Monday through Sunday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross, 415.455.5260
Improv Marin
San Rafael
Improv classes, shows and workshops are all offered at Improv Marin. They’ve had a number of partnerships over the years, from Archie Williams High School to the San Anselmo Chamber of Commerce. Get a taste of improv with their first free taster class and you’ll soon be coming back to do it all over again. Hours are Tuesday 7 p.m. – 9 p.m., Thursday 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
1554 4th St, San Rafael, 415.903.0037
Northern Marin
Trek Winery
Novato
Along with being a purveyor of tasty wines, Trek Winery also hosts many live events, including comedy shows. Standup comics headline outside in the scenic patio or inside the warm wooden walls, drawing laughs out of the audience while they sip on a glass and enjoy the show. Hours are Wednesday and Thursday 3 p.m. – 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday 3 p.m. – 10 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
1026 Machin Ave, Novato, 415.899.9883
Sponsor
Gene Hiller: 2023 Best of the County Arts & Entertainment
Gene Hiller Menswear has been providing American gentlemen with the very best clothing from brands like Canali and Brioni since 1953. Gene Hiller is also it’s own menswear brand designed in-house and manufactured in Montreal, Italy and Spain. Owners Tom Gangitano and Wayne Kaleck share more about their storied business.
What’s unique about your business?
Our business is a community business that extends all around the world. We are not only fashion consultants for our clients, but also their personal concierge service. From securing private drivers for airport transfers, booking hotel stays, making reservations — we do it all. Another element of our success is the longevity of our knowledgeable sales staff, which includes our world renowned tailor shop.
What you love about living in Marin?
Marin is a very beautiful place — its temperate climate, amazing views and diverse communities — it’s no wonder we all love to live and work here.
