The Final Curtain Falls: Akron’s Funny Stop Comedy Club Closes After Four Decades
After more than four decades of laughter, roasts and rising comedic talent, the Funny Stop Comedy Club in Cuyahoga Falls is preparing for its final show on March 30th. The club, considered the Akron area’s only dedicated comedy space, is closing its doors due to a significant rent increase.
A Rent Hike Seals the Deal
Owners Nidal and Tony Barakat cited a rent increase – from $2,300 to $4,300 per month – as the primary reason for the closure, making it unsustainable to continue operations. “My son, he said, ‘Mom, that’s it. You had a long run. You cannot afford to pay $4,300; how are we going to get it?’” Nidal Barakat explained.
The Legacy of Laughter
The Funny Stop has been a cornerstone of the Akron comedy scene for over 30 years, originally opening as Hilarities in 1985 before being purchased and rebranded in 2000. The club has hosted numerous aspiring and established comedians, including Jim Florentine, Don Jamieson, and Pauly Shore.
Comedians Reflect on a Home Lost
The impending closure has prompted reflection from comedians who regularly graced the Funny Stop’s stage. Bill Stone, an Akron native, expressed the impact of the club’s proximity, stating, “This location is eight minutes away from my house.” John Brown, who recently headlined at the club, noted the unique atmosphere fostered by the late Pete Barakat, a key figure in the club’s success.
Comedians gathered for a final “roast of Funny Stop,” sharing memories and playfully teasing each other and the club itself. Zach Thomas recalled a memorable experience with Barakat during an amateur competition, highlighting the co-owner’s direct but supportive approach.
What’s Next for Akron’s Comedy Scene?
With the Funny Stop’s closure, local comedians are looking to maintain the scene through open mics and performances at other venues. Options include the Canton Comedy Boom, Hilarities in Cleveland, the Funny Farm in Niles, Ohio, and Krackpots in Massillon, Ohio. Some comedians are similarly exploring the possibility of establishing a new comedy club in the Akron area.
Nidal Barakat remains optimistic about the future, stating, “We will find something. I’m not going to give up on Funny Stop. I have the name, I have my liquor license.”
FAQ
- When is the Funny Stop Comedy Club closing? The final show is scheduled for March 30th.
- Why is the Funny Stop closing? A significant increase in rent – from $2,300 to $4,300 per month – led to the decision not to renew the lease.
- Where can I see comedy near Akron after the Funny Stop closes? Options include Canton Comedy Boom, Hilarities in Cleveland, Funny Farm in Niles, and Krackpots in Massillon.
Did you know? The Funny Stop was originally named Hilarities when it opened in 1985.
Stay tuned for updates on the future of comedy in Akron, and be sure to catch one last laugh at the Funny Stop before the final curtain falls.
