Pittsburgh’s comedy scene has found fresh energy with the reopening of a cherished venue and new partnerships that bring humor back to the city. Stand-up comedian Chrissy Costa, recently crowned as the top comedian in the 2024 Best of the 'Burgh Readers' Poll, shares her experiences navigating comedy through various platforms, from live performances to reality TV. Her recent gig at a nudist colony and appearances on "Chews Me," a dating show with culinary twists, highlight her versatility. Meanwhile, The Burgh Bus continues to entertain passengers with its unique blend of sightseeing and stand-up routines. This revival culminates in Butler Street Derby's transformation into a vibrant hub for laughter, honoring the legacy of Hambone’s while creating a modern space for comedians to thrive.

As one of Pittsburgh's most celebrated comedic voices, Chrissy Costa brings an infectious energy to every performance. During a memorable brunch at TacOcat, a pop-up taqueria led by Chef Chris Acosta, Costa regaled me with tales from her latest adventures in humor. She recounted uproarious moments from her stint at a nudist colony, leaving both of us breathless with laughter. Despite my years of experience interweaving conversation with dining—a skill I've dubbed "interchewing"—Costa kept me on my toes with her rapid-fire wit. Our meal was punctuated by tequila cocktails and huevos rancheros, setting the perfect tone for her unprintable anecdotes.

Beyond traditional venues like bars and clubs, Costa also co-hosts The Burgh Bus, a mobile entertainment service that combines local sightseeing with comedy. Fellow comedian Samantha Bentley joins her aboard this converted school bus, which offers themed rides and shuttles around the city. Owned by Nick and Kat Walker, The Burgh Bus is expanding its offerings to include pizza tours in 2025, promising even more opportunities for laughter paired with delicious food. These initiatives exemplify how creativity can flourish when combined with community spirit.

The revival of comedy in Pittsburgh reaches its zenith at Butler Street Derby, a renovated performance space located in Lawrenceville. Once home to Hambone's, a beloved pub where countless comedians honed their craft, the building now houses a state-of-the-art venue designed for both dining and entertainment. With cathedral ceilings, a full-service bar, and an outdoor patio, Derby provides a welcoming atmosphere for audiences eager to enjoy quality stand-up acts. On January 31, the venue hosted its first showcase in collaboration with WDVE radio station, featuring notable comedians such as Mike Zydel, Joey Welsh, Jeff Konkle, and Bill Crawford. Their two-hour set captivated a sold-out crowd of approximately 130 attendees, marking the return of joyous sounds to a place once filled with silence.

This resurgence of laughter underscores the enduring power of comedy to unite communities. From unconventional settings like The Burgh Bus to established stages like Butler Street Derby, Pittsburgh continues to nurture its rich tradition of humor. As Chrissy Costa proves time and again, laughter remains an essential ingredient in bringing people together, whether over shared meals or unforgettable performances. The future looks bright for those who seek solace—and perhaps a good chuckle—in the Steel City's ever-evolving comedy landscape.