Caroline's on Broadway forced out by soaring rent

One of New York’s best known comedy clubs, Carolines On Broadway, is to close its doors after 30 years.

The venue has occupied a prime location near Times Square since 1992, but rising rents have caused owner Caroline Hirst to give up the lease.

‘Our final shows here will be on December 31,’ the venue tweeted.

The company has vowed to continue to stage shows around New York, including masterminding the city’s annual comedy festival, but no permanent new based has been announced.

The statement added: ‘Carolines began 40 years ago in Chelsea and later moved to the South Street Seaport before calling Times Square home in 1992, when many New Yorkers and businesses had written off Times Square and NYC overall due to high crime and a lack of proactive government solutions.

‘People thought we were crazy to invest in Times Square, only later to say that we were ahead of the curve when global brands like Disney, Nasdaq and national retailers and businesses came to the neighborhood

‘We are very proud to have played an integral role in its resurgence and brought much needed laughter to the neighborhood and the city. We’ve had an incredible run these past 40 years, elevating comedy from the very beginning and we are so proud of the comedians that have graced our stages throughout the years with their considerable talents.

‘As we continue to expand the brand, Carolines next "stage" will be larger and bring the best comedy to more people in more places. We will also continue to grow the New York Comedy Festival throughout the city and the country.

‘No matter the shape or form of Carolines’ future platform, we will always shine a spotlight on emerging talent. We are very excited about the future of the Carolines brand.’

Comics who have played the venue over the years include  Jay Leno, Jerry Seinfeld, Billy Crystal, Jon Stewart, Jimmy Fallon, Michael Che, Robin Williams and Conan O’Brien.

Published: 7 Dec 2022