Gold Coast nightclub nurtured comedy and musical greats

Ella Fitzgerald at Mister Kelly's — Jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald performs at Mister Kelly’s, a now-closed down nightclub in Gold Coast.

Reset with Sasha-Ann Simons

The Gold Coast nightclub that helped launch stand-up comedy as an art form also had great music

Richard Pryor, Barbra Streisand Ella Fitzgerald all performed at Mister Kelly’s on Rush Street in the 1950s and 60s.

Jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald performs at Mister Kelly’s, a now-closed down nightclub in Gold Coast.

By Lynnea Domienik

Mister Kelly’s was known as a destination for performers and audience members of all races and provided a space for pioneering comedians who incorporated current events and politics into their sets. This history is celebrated at an exhibition at the Newberry Library.

Reset learns more about this history and lasting impact of the club.

GUESTS: Andrew Meriwether, audio producer, journalist

David Marienthal, donated archival materials for “A Night At Mister Kelly’s” at the Newberry Library

Vince Firpo, VP of Public Engagement, Newberry Library