The sound of laughter has been missing from the Pasadena nightlife scene for over three years, fueled by the Covid pandemic shutdowns that plagued Los Angeles County. But like a funny phoenix, America’s longest-running comedy club – the Ice House, open over 60 years — takes flight again this weekend with a true heavyweight of comedy: Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias.
Iglesias set the all-time club record in 2005 for most consecutive sold-out shows at the Ice House, with 32 shows packed out before he finally let the streak end. This weekend’s triumphant return is no different. All his shows are sold-out.
So he’s the perfect headliner to officially kick the club back into orbit, as he performs four packed-to-the-newly-refurbished rafters, bringing new owner Johnny Buss boldly into the comedy world’s spotlight.
“Comedy is something that brings people together,” said Buss, the oldest son of the Los Angeles Lakers’ legendary owner, Jerry Buss . “My father and I used to talk about owning a comedy club all the time, so when the opportunity came to purchase The Ice House, I jumped at the chance.
“I felt I had an obligation to stand-up comedy to keep this club alive for another 60 years. I also want to bring back live music. The Ice House is built for whatever purpose you want. I think having the capabilities to deliver a variety of entertainment will help The Ice House last another 60 years.”
Buss oversaw an impressive top-down renovation of the club, adding a sleek new VIP Lounge for superfans to enjoy shows in a private setting with great views of the main showroom that can serve up to 30 people. The room features a self-serve bar as well as a room-assigned food and cocktail server, with the focus on the giant privacy glass that sets the high-end partiers apart to have a distinctively good time.
The main showroom has all new seating that adds greater comfort and a cooler sheen for the audience to relax and get their laughter on. A second stage, the California Room, also features rising stars and shows with innovative formats.
Upcoming weeks feature such hugely popular favorites as Maria Bamford, Jay Mohr, Dave Attell and Adam Carolla. According to Buss, such star wattage puts the club in great position for another six decades of history-making entertainment.
“We’re thrilled to finally reopen the doors of the Ice House Comedy Club,” said Buss. “We’ve put a lot of effort into making this a state-of-the-art venue that will be enjoyed by all who visit.” “We can’t wait to see the smiles on the faces of our customers as they enjoy a night of laughter with friends and family.”
“At The Ice House, we believe that comedy has the power to unite people, and we’re thrilled to continue bringing joy and laughter to our audiences for another 60 years,” the venue says.
The Ice House Comedy Club is located at 24 N. Mentor Ave., Pasadena. Doors will open to the public at 6 p.m. Fri. before the 7 p.m. opening show. Tickets may be purchased at www.icehousecomedy.com.
