The bar known as the “living room of Montrose” has embraced its role as a destination for standup comedy. Once a home for live music by local, regional, and national acts, the upstairs performance space at Rudyards is now known as The Riot Comedy Club at Rudyards.

Beginning in 2020, Rudyards expanded from its weekly Monday night open mics nights to hosting 10 comedy shows every Thursday through Sunday nights. In 2022, The Riot is on track to host 500 comedic performances. Downstairs still remains a neighborhood pub with craft beer and an eclectic food menu of pizza, sandwiches, and other comfort food.

To facilitate these performances, The Riot, which is overseen by promoters by Brian Gendron and Zach Lyons, has upgraded the space with new lighting and sound, a new stage that’s centered in the room, new in-seat ordering software, new tables, and more. Adding more seats gives the room a total capacity of approximately 140 people.

“We’ve really been able to build a reputation in the comedy industry as one of the top destinations for national headliners to perform and a fun spot for Houstonians and tourists alike to get some food, cold drinks, and some laughs” Gendron said in a statement. “This expansion allows us to book even bigger names in comedy and provide a better experience for guests.”

So far, the stage has hosted performers such as Joe Machi, Rich Vos, Matt Rife, and Kelsey Cook. Gendron and Lyons are booking comedians such as Michael Kosta, Ismo, Sam Jay, and David Nihill for the months to come. In March, The Riot will host a four-day comedy festival that will draw over 50 comedians from across the country.

The Riot will celebrate the transformation this weekend with performances this weekend, including three shows by New York’s Jordan Jensen. Expect merchandise and ticket giveaways throughout the weekend.