ComEx logo featuring the text ComEx! A comedy extravaganza! Presented by the Center for Comedic Arts at Emerson College

The Center for Comedic Arts at Emerson College is proud to present its annual Comedy Extravaganza, a.k.a. ComEx! April 12-13, 2024.

ComEx! will feature student improv, sketch, standup, The Clavelli Comedy Award and more! This is an opportunity for the Emerson community to come together, share some laughs and celebrate the vast array of talent we have on campus — and all free! 

  • The Jess Ilias Clavelli Competition
  • The Comedic Arts Showcase featuring the sketch and improv talents of Comedic Arts juniors and seniors.
  • ComEx! Tonight, a student written and hosted late-night show featuring comedy professionals as guests.

ComEx! is an opportunity for the community to come together, share some laughs, and celebrate the vast array of talent we have on campus. We can’t wait to see you there!

Upcoming Events

Comics of Color: Emerson’s First Football Team

April 12, 2024, 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. EDT

The event location is

Semel Theater

Kick off ComEx! 2024 right with the Comics of Color Showcase, where the spotlight shines on some of Emerson’s brightest comedic talents. This showcase features a lineup of the funniest comedians of color, each bringing their unique style of stand-up, sketch, and improv to the stage. Doors open at 6:40.

Emerson’s Rising Stars of Stand-Up

April 12, 2024, 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. EDT

The event location is

Semel Theater

The freshest and most promising comedic talents from Emerson College bring their unique voices and perspectives for an evening filled with laughter, surprises, and possibly the next big names in stand-up comedy. Doors open at 8:40 p.m.    

The Emerson Troupe Best-Of Show

April 13, 2024, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. EDT

The event location is

Semel Theater

This premiere event showcases the crème de la crème of Emerson College’s comedy talent, featuring a handpicked selection of the best sketches, stand-up, and improv performances by the acclaimed Emerson student troupes. With their signature blend of humor, creativity, and brilliant comedic timing, the Emerson Troupe promises an unforgettable show that epitomizes the spirit of laughter and the art of comedy. Doors open at 2:40 p.m.

The Emerson Improv Ensemble

April 13, 2024, 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. EDT

The event location is

Semel Theater

This showcase spotlights Emerson College’s finest improvisers as they take the stage to deliver unscripted, unrehearsed, and unbelievably funny performances. Expect the unexpected as these quick-witted comedians push the boundaries of imagination, humor, and collaboration, inspired by audience suggestions. Doors open at 6:40 p.m.

The Jess Ilias Clavelli Award Competition & Reception

April 13, 2024, 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. EDT

The event location is

Semel Theater

Featuring live performances by Emerson College’s brightest comedic talents, the Clavelli competition celebrates comedic brilliance. Witness the crowning of this year’s recipients and enjoy an unforgettable night of comedy excellence. Doors open at 8:40 p.m.; join us for a catered reception after the show!

Past Festivals