Esther's Follies

I wish I could go to Esther's Follies every night! The performers were oh so talented. The skits were topical and hilarious. The magician absolutely blew my mind! I can't think of anything to make the show any better.

The show was amazing! Super funny and topical. Venue was fun and creative. The seating, bar and restroom are all easy to get to even if the place is full. It's connected in the back with a patio to the next door taqueria if you want a quick bite before or after the show. And, the next door comedy show is included in the Esther's Follies ticket

Esther's Follies is iconic. A really whacky good time, full of irreverent comedy. Very much a vaudeville style troupe of amazingly talented cast and crew, who are having as much fun as the audience. It really makes the experience next level. See magic, music, mystery, and maybe a shenanigan or three! Definitely book a ticket and have a blast.

"Like Vegas Had a Weird Baby with SNL... and It’s Hilarious!" If you only see one show in Austin, make it Esther’s Follies. If you see two, see this one twice — because you'll probably miss half the jokes the first time from laughing so hard. From political satire to magic that made me question both physics and my childhood trauma (thanks, Uncle Dave and the disappearing quarter trick), this show has everything. Singing, dancing, stand-up, sketch comedy, illusions — and at least one person in sequins per square foot. The cast has more energy than a toddler on Red Bull. How they remember all those lines, moves, and sleight-of-hand tricks without combusting is beyond me. Honestly, I left feeling like I needed a nap just from watching. Special shoutout to the glass windows behind the stage that show confused 6th Street pedestrians in real-time — it’s like a surprise bonus act starring drunk people trying to figure out if they’re part of the show. (They are.) Esther’s Follies is a chaotic, glittery, gloriously unhinged fever dream — and I loved every second of it. 10/10 would sell a kidney to go again.

This is a variety show on 6th street. The show was hilarious and it’s a must do if either we were coming back or someone we knew were going. It’s very liberally political but it was still very funny. They make use of both the indoor and outdoor space and use the windows out to the street as part of the show. The seating is all flat on the floor with banquet chairs so get close or get something further back thats raised up. We sat 2nd row. Fantastic show.

Visited for the second time this weekend with some friends from out of town. The show was hilarious and the actors were amazing. Joaquin at the bar took great care of us and gave us recommendations for things to do after. Awesome performances all around

Founded by Shannon Sedwick, Esther’s Follies is a one-of-a-kind live comedy venue perched right on 6th Street in Austin, TX. It shares space with the iconic Velveeta Room and the vibrant Taqueria Las Chismosas, adding to the charm of the experience. Arrive a bit early to wander around the building—there’s a rich history to take in that really sets the stage for the show. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, catching a live performance here is an absolute must. It’s pure old Austin.

Whenever someone asks me where to go for a true “Austin” experience, I recommend the Follies. They never fail to put on a good show and represent the best of what this city is supposed to be: creative, witty, bold and fun. The service is excellent and shout out to our bartender Joaquin who made our night really special with great service, jokes, and thoughtful recommendations on where to explore after the show. Esther’s is truly a gem in this city thanks to the talented and authentic people who work there!!

Have family and friends coming to town? Bring them to Esther's. It's a magic show, comedy show and everything in between! You can definitely go more than once since they do change up their acts periodically. Pro tip: if you get tickets online, you usually get added to their mailing list. They do BOGO offers often.

At first, I thought this place might be cool. As a Black woman, I immediately noticed the audience was almost entirely white--that was already unsettling, but I tried to let it go. The show started off cheesy and a little cringe, but harmless enough. Then came a performance that completely crossed the line. They did "Ice Ice Baby" with performers wearing "ICE" vests, making deportation "jokes" and racial comments. The crowd--mostly white--laughed like it was all fun and games, while my friend, a Hispanic woman, felt VERY uncomfortable sitting there watching people laugh at the idea of her community being targeted. That wasn't comedy. It was ignorant, disrespectful, and disgusting. Turning real trauma into a punchline is not entertainment--it's erasure. If you value inclusivity, humanity, or just basic decency, do NOT go here. If I can give 0 stars I would.

It's mostly politically charged humor with no shortage of song, dance and expertly made props. What else could you possibly need? Magic. Turns out, you need magic. Toss an accomplished magician, extravagant blacklight decor and a full bar into the mix and you've got yourself some Esther's, mi amigo. The show is about 90 minutes long with a 5-minute intermission and makes for a great night out. Really fun.

What I got: Friday Night Tier 1 Tickets ($40 each) Aya's take: First time in Austin and I'm so glad we came to Esther's Follies! Esther's Follies has been around since April Fool's Day in 1977. I had no idea what to expect going into it and honestly, it was so much better that way. When we arrived, there was live music by a few cast members. Suddenly, the night of comedy, magic, and music began. It's pretty fast-paced which kept me super engaged and I enjoyed the satirical bits that poke fun and highlight current events in politics and pop culture. The magic by Ray Anderson was outstanding! I had never been to a vaudeville-style entertainment like this but I will say it is a must-do in Austin! I highly recommend adding this to your Austin itinerary.

These people are funny, entertaining and provide an amazing evening of entertainment! You must try it

This was a fun experience in Austin. There is a food truck outside and a bar inside with available seating prior to the show. Everyone was so friendly and helpful and the performances were great!! Left with a bellyache from the laughter! Much needed! Highly recommend and would definitely go again!

It's an Austin comedy staple for a reason. Grab a couple of beers, and maybe some popcorn and candy, before grabbing your seat (there is no table service.... Or tables, for that matter). It offers stadium-style seating to optimize any view. Check the website for updated performances- they range from standup to improv and more. Hopefully, the downtown reorg won't detract from getting to or continuing to enjoy this magical venue.

So so so fun! Had a blast! So funny my tummy was hurting. I will definitely be coming back for a fun night :)

Don't miss Esther's Follies if you visit Austin. Incredibly funny, very up-to-the-moment sketches about what's going on in Texas and the U.S. You will legit laugh until your sides hurt. I live in San Antonio, but come to Esther's Follies every couple of months. It's a different show every time, but always an amazing show. The magician is incredible too. The people walking by on 6th street add to the show, and the cast is both inside and out. Incredibly well done comedy and magic. Have dinner first at the Moonshine Patio Bar and Grill two blocks away. Truly, you will not regret it.

Had an absolute blast at Esther's Follies! The vibe? Immaculate. The atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and full of that classic Austin weird-in-a-good-way energy. The show was a perfect mix of sketch comedy, magic, and musical satire--all delivered with incredible talent and timing. Honestly, I was grinning the whole time. Full disclosure: the comedy leans left, so if political humor with a liberal twist isn't your thing, this might not be your jam. But if you're down for some smart, sharp laughs (and a few roastings), you're in for a treat. Highly recommend if you're visiting Austin or just need a night out that's fun, lively, and a little bit ridiculous--in the best way.

They have some snacks and drinks. There are so many good things to say about this place. The bar tenders are attentive and offer you to make your orders for the break before going in. Do that because it's quick and easy to pick up your drinks. As for the show... it was nothing that I expected in the middle of 6th street. Magic, Comedy, Singing and other spoofs. Absolute must see if you venture into Austin. Bring a group with you. This show is totally worth every penny spent.

Brought some NY friends visiting Austin to see Esther's Follies. It was our first time, too. Even for people who grew up regularly seeing Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, this gem in Austin was the hit of their visit! We enjoyed the variety of political satire, musical creativity and a fantastic comedic magician. The sketches were fresh with current events, which means that we'll be able to go back time and again, and see a new show each time. The actors were all talented, and we loved the magic bits. I highly recommend the show!

An Austin staple, an absolutely awesome experience for locals and visitors alike! I enjoyed my recent experience at Esther's Follies so much - the talented cast, hilarious + clever content, and casual atmosphere was all such a blast. It was so unique to see improv, comedy and magic all wrapped up in one show, for a very reasonable price! I also appreciated that they worked with me to change the date of my tickets due to one person in our party getting sick on the day we'd originally booked tickets for. Super flexible and accommodating. I recommend springing for tier 1 seats, and grabbing a beer from the bar beforehand. Parking in that area is tough, so plan to arrive early.

Inexpensive campy fun was had by all! This theater started their run in 1977 and is going strong today. Some originals are still busting up the audience with much humor and aplomb. From magic tricks to political silliness, to Texas humor and beyond you will be laughing your worries away!

I hadn't been to Esther's pool in a number of years, but on a recent Saturday, I joined a group from my neighborhood for the early (7pm) show. We had a full row reserved a few rows back from the stage to limit our chances of being among the "chosen." As people were taking their seats before the show began, one of the talented performers was singing away, making remarks as she went. The earliest skits were among the best of the evening and, of course, given the upcoming election, many were politically inspired. The cast, including founder Shannon Sedwick and longtime magician Ray Anderson, was amazing as always. Shannon's Patsy Cline number was just as I remembered it, but it's still funny. Ray's antics and quick humor were great. Other cast members were amazing in both their vocals and energetic performances. I need to go back again soon!

First time visiting this show and I can see why it's a staple in Austin. The mix of magic, sketch comedy, and musical numbers was fun and moved at a good pace. The magician stood out the most -- super polished and genuinely impressive. The energy from the cast kept things lively, and the smaller venue made it feel up close and personal no matter where you sat. That said, the show leaned heavily into political humor, which might not be everyone's taste. Some skits felt more like commentary than comedy, and I think a little more variety in tone would have helped balance the experience. Still, there were enough laugh-out-loud moments to make it worth going. All in all, it's a fun night out with a unique vibe. A little uneven in places, but definitely something different and memorable to do while in town.

Cool setting for sure, but it's more than just a left leaning show. With the thousands of jokes they could make about Biden, etc, they didn't even try to go both ways. Each skit was hitting every left leaning talking point; Tesla, ICE, inflation, abortion, No Kings, 401k, tariffs. They impersonated and ripped on Trump and Elon nonstop. I'm all good with this, if you're fair and go both ways. By intermission we had enough and left. Unfortunate because it had all the makings to be a great show

Such an Austin spot! The decor was a vibe and the cast was such a vibe. It was comedic gold and the venue is the right size to feel intimate. Also probably the best magic show in Texas - not of that boring pick a card bs, this guy was LEGIT. Heading back for my second show this week and I'm looking forward to their new material / I hope the presidential debates will be worked in there...

Great for a good night laugh. I don't drink and there wasn't much to do at night that doesn't involve eating or drinking but this place did it for me. I love how they're up to date on everything. The show was very engaging and overall had a great time. Would definitely try to come back one night.

Having done open mic night and a horrible comedian myself, I can appreciate the courage it takes to get up under the lights, intuition to make people laugh and the spine to shake off bombing on stage. However, throw in some theatrics along with song and you have something special. That is what I got to experience for my pre-birthday activities when my girlfriend shocked me with tickets to Ether's Follies. One of the highlights of my brief 3 years in Texas as of this writing in March 2024. Located in a relatively safe section of town off of 6th St, I've never noticed this hole in the wall before. Its outside façade is very unassuming and I was extremely surprised when my girlfriend got us tickets for my soon to be SECOND 21st bday... She suckered me good by saying we were going to see a play, which was a nice touch to throw my suspicions off. Walking in the establishment it oozes a crazy collection of odd murals, paint schemes, statues, sculptures and an assortment of mis-mashed art. After checking in to the left of the lobby is the bar. The bartenders are quick to fill your drink orders and while not having a huge selection of drinks they have enough to put a smile on your face before you even get to see the cast of comedians. As a side note the restrooms are to the right of the bar and during intermission the lines become a little long, you've been warned. I rather liked holding area. I literally took roughly 10 minutes to take in the atmosphere. I was abruptly but pleasantly interrupted as the ushers dropped in and began to seat the patrons. You walk in and the tunnel opens up to stadium fold up seating. Not the most comfortable seating choice but once the show starts I submit it the comfort rather quickly leaves the mind, replaced by quality entertainment. The stage is small, but dominates the eyesight as the music section is to the left. Curiously the windows allow people to look in and the audience to look out, more on that later. Before our night started, we were reminded no pictures of video during the performance, so take pictures of your "I was there" moments now. A wonderful woman came out in an interesting 1800s Midwest dress and proceeded to give a fun musical number loosening up the audience while prepping them of things to come. Please note, there is satire of all kinds including impartial political jabs. So, if you're of a certain persuasion and are triggered by a party being insulted, consider this your warning. But to reiterate the jokes are thrown at both parties in an effort to keep things fair and balanced. The show itself has music, magic, audience participation and long and short form jokes. Another warning if you're on the front row or close to the stage, you "might" be called upon to join in the fun on stage. My show had the entire front row occupied by the Swedish navy, which made them hilarious fodder for the comedians. As I mentioned earlier and was totally unexpected but "all the world is a stage" as you notice people outside are part of the show. That's right innocent people are unwittingly part of the show at times while the cast do go outside which you can see through the window further enhancing the shows humor. Finally, we did have some heckler at our show. Having done standup before, I can advise, the worst people to "try and punk" are comedians. We're ready for it, the staff and audience are on our side, it's a nuisance and finally you'll look stupid. Anyways, the crew shamed the guy pretty good and he was kicked out. All in all, it was a night for me to remember and it could be yours as well if this type of entertainment tickles your fancy. Heck even if it doesn't, I challenge you to give it a try to broaden your interests. As I stated I've done standup and I give it five out of five stars for comedy and while I did high school choir the cast really has talent in the singing department as well. The magic is the least pronounced but well done as a nice diversion between bits (bit meaning the next wave of comedy sketches). Overall, this crew was superb and knocked it out the park. The whole experience is perfect for a first or 100th date, a friend's night out or just an excuse to do something different. Give it a whirl you won't regret it.

My wife and I have been here quite a few times, sometimes bringing friends or family and everyone has a good time. The humor is great and they mix fast pace, quick humor with some fun skits covering just about everything Texas and a few other things besides, I don't want to ruin anything as they do have some recurring sketches. The place is always fun, the staff is friendly and the performers are all great. You get more out of it the more you know about Texas but even non Texans will have a good time. I feel this is an experience so no words or review could really explain it, you have to go. But maybe a little overview may help? First the waiting/lounge area is nice, lots of seating and cool decor. Esther's has been an Austin stable for decades, we even got the book as soon as it came out. You open with an intro song in the style of a piano and singer setting the tone. Then quick fire modern up to date jokes, songs, and short playlets on recent events, sometimes as recent at that day which is super impressive! There are songs and ideas of what to do with Texas. The Congress and Senate are given some vicious cuts and there are some fun musical numbers, some about nightlife in Austin or living in Texas. This alone would be worth it but then you add Ray, the resident user of Magic! This guy is amazing! We have sat up front right on the stage, the middle, to the side, and it never fails to shock and entertain us. The music, the flair, the magic, the humor. This guy is on another level. You get both the amazing cast and Ray which either alone would be worth the cost and time but two great things that go great together??? *CHEFS KISS* There are also windows to the street, they mix in performers out there and sometimes you can tell and other times you are not sure if it is a non Esther's person or one of the cast. Even just the people walking by become part of the show. They stop and watch, flip you off, wave, laugh, stare. It is all part of the fun and idiom of Esther's Follies. It is packed with all sorts of humor and commentary. The energy is always high and while you will have sketches you prefer over others they are all clever or funny. We will be going again and then again.

Absolutely hilarious and super well put together. It's a fast-paced sketch comedy show with sharp political humor, fun magic, and even musical numbers--the cast has seriously great voices. The improv with audience members added a cute, personal touch. Drinks were fine, not too strong but solid. Overall, a really fun and balanced show. Highly recommend whether you're local or just visiting Austin. I know I'll be going back

Funniest reviews on current topics and it is a must do in Austin, well worth the money.

I have lived in Austin for over 25 years and just went to this comedy club for the first time. My expectations were not high, as for some reason I thought it would be quite hokey due to the fact it is on 6th street and perhaps simply there as a tourist draw. My friend is a comic and got tickets, so I agreed to go. The performance went above and beyond my expectations. It was an excellent experience, all around, from the funky decor to the on point comedy to the jaw dropping magic. The content was current, the choreography incredible, all the performers truly skilled at their craft. The audience was a mix of young and old (but not kids) and a mix of tourists and locals. Part of the show included members of the audience, which was fun to watch. I was also thankful not to be sitting in the first few rows due to this! I will definitely go back and know I can look forward to seeing something different but completely amazing on my next visit.

So funny! We had never been to a vaudeville show so we weren't sure what to expect but we loved it. We were a little iffy when we first walked in as we thought it was going to be in a more typical theater. The building is definitely old and kitschy but the whole operation is super professional and well run. The performers were awesome and everything was very original. I was so surprised at how up to date some of the references were. Afterward they told us we could go next door to their sister comedy club and we had a great time there too.

I won't bother repeating every other review. I'll just say this show is a must when visiting Austin. It's uproariously funny, delightfully clever and wonderfully talented. What an amazing time for $40. I would give it my highest recommendation.

When visiting downtown Austin, TX, be sure to reserve yourself a seat at one of their performances. It's a variety show filled with magic, comedy and skits related to current events in our democracy. Great performances by the cast members and the show is hysterically funny!!!

Hilarious, witty and contemporary! Loved their sequences of song/jokes mixed in with some classic magic tricks. Production quality is high enough to be in NYC or Chicago. I knew EF was an Austin legend and now I've experienced first-hand why it's so. The show is better than any review can describe. If you're in town visiting or live here, don't miss this amazing production. It's vaudeville but it's not slapstick. Also, as others have said and now I've seen, there's not a bad seat in the house because it's an intimate venue and a slight slope creates good views even in row 10.

There's nothing I can write in here that will depict the cleverness and insane hilarity that you'll experience at Esther's Follies. I went expecting a standup comedy act with some music. Omg was I pleasantly surprised after walking not so great 6th street. This place is a gem of a comedy, magic and music spot. It is a must see when you're in town. If I lived here I'd be a regular. From the ticket counter to the drinks to the seating and the immense treat of the writing and choreography.... I am a fan. I will never come to Austin and not come to Esther's Follies. Wow. Do it and let me know how right I was.

An Austin staple. An absolute must-see when visiting! It was so fun and my group and I laughed all night. Perfect combination of political satire, musical, and magic! Would definitely return.

This show was an interesting mix of music, magic, and sketch comedy. The cast is clearly talented and I was impressed that they managed to keep their show up to date with commentary on very recent current events. They cleverly used the window into the street. But to be honest, I found it a little cheesy, especially the magician. And surprisingly vulgar. The production value was a little lacking and the theater looked a little run down. It felt like a good representation of Austin though, and everything that "keeps Austin weird." I think part of the problem was not knowing what to expect going in. I was still confused about the whole experience and ambiance even after leaving!

This such a fun thing to do in austin. This is my second time attending EF & it did not disappoint! The magic is my favorite part. I need to know how he did it!!!! I definitely recommend

Had a great time at Esther's Follies! The show was funny and really entertaining. Ray Anderson's magician acts were funny and very neat. The whole cast did such a great job and kept us laughing the entire time. Highly recommended if you're in Austin!

Authentic Austin! An absolute must if you want a true Austin experience. You will be immersed in an eclectic, fun, and charming vibe. Do not miss it!

Esther's Follies is a national treasure, delivering wit and levity night after night. Our world needs more belly laughs.

Austin's own mini SNL. It's soo much fun and soo worth your time if you are visiting. Be ready to be picked on, laugh, and have a great time!

Great show! We all laughed throughout multiple skits, and the magic was pretty good! Decent options for drinks.

This is a must do if you are in Austin. Seriously, believe the reviews! We went to the NYE show and it was great. The performances are hilarious and the staff that work there are top notch. They even gave us party favors for NYE. Definitely recommend!

It's not funny at all. It is like a Saturday Night Live of washed up comedians. Don't waste your money.

Be more neutral politically. Not a word about Biden/Harris when soooo much humor to be said. I get tired of one-sided view points and you ostracize half your audience by doing that.

I absolutely love coming to this venue. As per the photo of my receipts that I added to this review, the last time I came here was with a date in 2017. Esther's Follies follows 'what's what' in Washington, Austin, and on the Internet - with sketches and great musical numbers. Although the vast majority of the comedy presented here is political satire; even if you do not follow politics, you will be entertained. I appreciate the fact that this show changes with the times. Accordingly, this is a place that you can go to more than once within a 6 month time frame and see a completely different show. The show lasts about one and a half hours with a short intermission, and runs every evening from Thursday to Saturday, so there are many changes to catch this show. Shout out to Shannon Sedwick and Billy Brooks for 'bringing it' each and ever time they hit the stage!

This place is a total looney whack job. It's almost like an old Buca de Beppos, if you've ever been to one, but without any theme, just decor thrown together for the sake of outrageousness. There's a bar and a taco stand adjunct to the venue so you can fill that pie hole if necessary. These guys are like Austin's version of Second City or the Groundlings, or SF's old Beach Blanket Babylon. But, they've got a pretty decent magician, with a wicked sense of humor who makes the show. The whole stage is open at the back to the street through large windows, and there is constant interaction by performers with passersby who check out the skits. The magician makes full use of that and mines it to hilarious effect. They also put performers in the street and do other hilarious stuff in and on the windows. Too many good things to give details. Austin vs Houston humor, Austin vs SF and the Calif bad guys (we're from SF). Some corny stuff, but pretty damn funny. Plenty salty, but our kids loved it. Great value for your buck. Intimate, informal venue. Well worth the wait. You'll be talking about it for months. You gotta go. Go!!

Funny funny FUNNY SHOW!! Seriously I could not stop laughing from start yo finish. It is smart comedy... not just silliness... although there is some of that mixed in as well... and magic too. We have been wanting to do this since we moved to Austin and this past Valentine's Day I took my wife to the 10pm Friday night show. It was freaking hilarious!! I haven't laughed that much in years. Like the good old days of Saturday Night Live but on steroids! I'm telling you... THIS SHOW IS FUNNY!! It was worth every penny and I feel a must see for any adult. Yes it is for sure an adult show. No kids... first it would be way over their heads and 2nd it is certainly not appropriate even for younger teens! Any way if you are coming to austin, live in austin, visiting Austin or whatever... you have to take in this show! It is, I feel, an Austin must!

Believe the reviews!! This place is so great! Such a wonderful entertaining show, all I can say is that you need to go, you will have a blast and will not regret it! It's refreshing to see places that still have the 'Mom and Pop' feel, Esther Follies is the epitome of that. Stop reading this and go buy your tickets immediately!! Highly highly recommend.. and if you're real lucky you'll get called on stage like my husband did lol

Esther's Follies is a must do if you've never been. My wife and I have been going for years, and we really appreciate the time and commitment that clearly goes on behind the scenes. Shannon and the staff are incredibly friendly and always welcome us with smiles. We think this is the perfect spot for bringing friends and family from out of town too. It gives them a hilarious picture of life in Austin, Texas humor, and contemporary issues that are worth yelling/laughing at. In addition to the Comedy portion of the show, Ray and his team are as talented as it gets. Get there early (~15-20 min. before show time) to read up about the history of the Follies (we love our coffee table book) and grab a margarita. Simply put, this is an Austin staple. If you're local or visiting for the first time, it's got to make your list!

Absolutely hilarious! They move sets and props so fast inside AND outside, there is hardly any time between skits. They make fun of everyone and everything. We are still talks about it!

So funny! Clever political and current event satire - it's like SNL on steroids (lots of laughs). The skits and routines were all very current. Jammed packed entertainment. This troupe of extremely talented and skilled performers put on an outstanding production. All of the actors were excellent and the magic was very good too. Comedy, dancing and singing were fantastic. Laughed from start to finish. Can't remember the last time I laughed so hard. A very fun experience! I didn't want it to be over. Can't wait to go back.

Mash-up of comedy, singing, dancing, magic show, ventriloquism, and, I'm sure, other elements that I am missing, packed into an under two-hour show. Overall, the cast did a wonderful job of keeping the energy high and moving from sketch to sketch. The highlights were the comedy bits that poked fun at Texas history, geography, and politics. Some of the bits were clearly current, commenting on recent events and news. My favorite was one on Texas realty - making fun of the stereotypes of different Austin neighborhoods and areas. Other highlights were the audience engagement - extending to anyone walking by on the street - who would subsequently become a part of the show. The only reason I am giving four and not five stars is I did feel a few of the sketches fell a little flat - but it's highly possible others felt differently and it's likely difficult to keep so many sketches at a high level! Also the atmosphere alone is worth a visit. The tackiness and over-the-top decor are worth a look and add to the overall production!

I think the show I saw was circa 1990, but according to other reviewers, it doesn't seem to have changed much. I remember political humor, clever use of the window to the street, being very much entertained, and everyone laughing. Almost nothing in Austin lasts forty years. They're not just passionate about what they do, but they're clearly doing it well.