Laugh out loud: this is only English language stand-up club in Helsinki

The city’s comedy scene is buzzing, with more monthly clubs than you can count, but unfortunately almost all the shows are in Finnish – one of the world’s trickiest languages to master. So unless you’re fluent, the punchlines might sail right past you, which can be funny in its own way, but maybe not for the right reasons.

Luckily, there are occasional visiting stand-up artists, and one place for regular stand-up nights in a language that non-native speakers can actually understand. The NoName Theatre, an English-language amateur playhouse, hosts a monthly stand-up night in English in a relaxed, intimate setting. Expect expat comics, visiting performers and locals trying their luck in a second language – all fuelled by that universal urge to make people laugh.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can still drop in on a Finnish-language show, pop in your translation earbuds and try to keep up with the locals. Or just let them laugh at you instead. Either way, you’ll leave with a story to tell.

Check our listings in Finnish for the best stand-up clubs in Helsinki.