Chandler Local Spotlight: Mic Drop Mania

Laughter is alive and well in Downtown Chandler…thanks to a revamped venue with some exciting new upgrades. Formerly ImprovMANIA, Mic Drop Mania Comedy Club still offers traditional stand-up and improvisational shows, but the entertainment spot has turned the laugh factor up a few notches.

David and Colleen Specht put Chandler on the comedy map when they opened ImprovMANIA in 2016. But a relocation to the historic building on Boston Street in January 2023 launched a full rebranding of the club, which now provides an improved boutique comedy experience.

The venture—a partnership between the Spechts and Casey Currier and Hillary Hutson, owners of Mic Drop in San Diego—has allowed downtown’s newest hotspot to focus on comedy programming, increase its floor space and expand show times, says David Specht.

The club is now open Thursday to Sunday and features newcomers, seasoned professionals—including alums from “Saturday Night Live”—and other nationally-known comedians. “It’s a true slice of what the comedy world is all about,” Specht says of the ability to attract more stand-up performers. “All kinds of talent come through town.”

Customers can expect familiar offerings such as open mic night, where anyone can try their hand at comedy with a four-minute set. The lineup also continues to include family-friendly shows, special engagements and events such as Back to the Brunch, which showcases comedy, trivia and a lip sync battle based on the hit film “Back to the Future.” And, of course, the popular ImprovMANIA show returns to the stage once a month where the audience gives the comedy troupe suggestions to help set the tone for the performance.

While many comedy clubs in the Valley accommodate a larger audience, Mic Drop Mania’s setting puts customers up-close-and-personal with performers. “We’ve always offered an intimate entertainment experience. Every seat is within five rows of the stage,” Specht says.

The reimagined modern spot provides a subtle yet whimsical décor homage to Snow White and includes two showrooms: a 125-seat main indoor space with exposed brick and luxury booths; and a comedy garden, an open-air courtyard that seats 75.

The new focus comes with an expanded dinner menu, too, thanks to a fully equipped kitchen. This new feature gives guests the option to order a complete dinner with a show or choose from a rotating menu of a la cart items. Customers also can select from a large selection of local beers, wine and inventive cocktails. And, unlike other venues, Mic Drop MANIA doesn’t require a two-item minimum.

The comedy club hosts stand-up and improv classes and can customize private events for holiday parties, luncheons, mixers, award ceremonies, fundraisers, corporate functions, business meetings, networking events and weddings.

At the end of the day—and show—it’s about the laughter. “We’re still here,” says Specht. “It’s a small business mentality in which everyone has a five-star experience. It’s the same people, the same comedy atmosphere, but it’s a more elevated experience.”

Map: 51 E. Boston St., Chandler AZ 85225 or (480) 564-1844