Learn About Our Live Comedy Shows & Mission

SINCE 2003, Crack’Em Up Comedy has been the go-to stage for rising comedy stars to shine. Founded and produced by Nichelle Murdock Entertainment, Crack’Em Up Comedy has built a legacy of introducing fresh, diverse, and unforgettable talent to audiences across the country—and across the world.

From its long-running home at the world-famous Comedy Store in Los Angeles to stages in San Diego, Detroit, Chicago, the Bay Area, and even the UK and the Netherlands, Crack’Em Up has remained a trusted platform where comedians break through and fans discover their next favorite act.

OUR MISSION is simple: to create unforgettable live comedy experiences while supporting the growth of the next generation of comedy greats. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the scene, Crack’Em Up Comedy is where laughter begins.

Our Story

BACK IN 2003, I created Crack’Em Up Comedy with one goal in mind—to give new and rising comedians a place to shine. I wanted a stage where fresh voices could be heard, where talent that didn’t always get a shot at the spotlight could finally be seen. What started as a Thursday night showcase at The Comedy Store in Hollywood grew into something much bigger than I ever imagined.

OVER THE YEARS, Crack’Em Up has become more than just a comedy show—it’s a family. I’ve had the honor of watching comedians grow from their very first sets into household names, and I’ve seen audiences come back week after week because they trust us to deliver the next big star. From Los Angeles to San Diego, Detroit, Chicago, the Bay Area, and even across the pond in London and the Netherlands, the heart of Crack’Em Up has always stayed the same: community, opportunity, and laughter.

TWO DECADES LATER the journey is still personal for me. Crack’Em Up is about more than jokes—it’s about creating a space where comedians and audiences connect, where dreams take shape, and where the joy of laughter brings us all together.

—Nichelle Murdock, Founder & Executive Producer

Nichelle Murdock

Founder & CEO

Nichelle Murdock, a Cleveland Heights native and Clark Atlanta University graduate, is the visionary behind Crack‘Em Up Comedy, a platform dedicated to elevating rising comedy talent. She began her career at MTV, Oxygen, and BET and has since worked extensively in TV and film production.

Nichelle has been producing her comedy show at The Comedy Store since 2003 and has expanded the brand to Tubi, Netflix Is A Joke Festival, and cities like Detroit, Chicago, San Diego, and the Bay Area. She also served as a talent booker for prominent LA comedy clubs like the Laugh Factory, the Comedy Union, and J. Anthony Brown’s J Spot Comedy Club.

Additionally, she’s on the producing teams for “Crack ‘Em Up in the Metaverse” and Affion Crockett’s “Microphone Masters” comedy specials.

The sky is the limit.

Levi Alexander

Room Manager

Uncle Levi has been the heartbeat of Crack’Em Up Comedy since its very first show in 2003. As the beloved room manager, he has welcomed audiences, supported comedians, and helped create the warm, electric atmosphere that has made Crack’Em Up a staple at The Comedy Store.

Known for his humor, hospitality, and unwavering dedication, Uncle Levi has been an essential part of the show’s family from day one, keeping the spirit of community and laughter alive every week.

Carlos Koustas

Director/Producer

Carlos Koustas is a talented director and producer with a passion for creating engaging live entertainment and media content. With a strong eye for detail and a collaborative spirit, Carlos has played a key role in shaping Crack’Em Up Comedy’s productions, bringing fresh energy and professionalism to the stage and screen.

His work with the brand helps spotlight emerging comedic voices while ensuring each show is delivered with top-quality production value.

Delmar Washington

CEO Ximen Media Group

Delmar Washington is an accomplished director and producer with a strong background in film, television, and live entertainment. Known for his sharp storytelling and creative vision, Delmar has directed a wide range of projects spanning scripted content, commercials, and live productions.

With Crack’Em Up Comedy, he brings his directorial expertise to elevate the brand’s live shows and digital productions, helping to showcase rising comedic talent with high-quality storytelling and dynamic visuals.