When it comes to the question of whether there is an age limit for Matt Rife’s comedy shows, the quick answer is that there is no strict age limit in place. However, Matt Rife’s performances do tend to be aimed more towards adult audiences rather than children.
Matt Rife’s Background
Matt Rife is a stand-up comedian, actor and writer known for his appearances on shows like MTV’s Wild ‘N Out. Rife first got involved in comedy as a teenager, performing at clubs and colleges near his hometown in Ohio. In 2015 at age 20, he was named one of Variety’s “Top 10 Comics to Watch”.
Rife is known for his observational comedy about everyday life, relationships, pop culture and social issues. His stand-up sets often feature raunchy sexual humor and stories about his personal experiences. Rife has cited comedians like Martin Lawrence, Dave Chappelle and Mike Epps as influences.
Matt Rife’s Typical Audience
Most of Matt Rife’s stand-up performances take place in comedy clubs, bars and theaters that serve alcohol and cater to adult crowds. Some venues require audience members to be 21 or older for admission. Rife also frequently performs on college campuses, where the majority of audience members tend to be around college-age.
Beyond the venue types, the mature subject matter and frequent strong language used in Rife’s routines make his shows better suited for older teens and adults. Parents may want to use discretion in bringing minors to see Rife’s live stand-up act.
Observations from Matt Rife Shows
Having been to several of Matt Rife’s stand-up shows personally, I have observed that there are usually very few young children or early teenagers in the audience. The crowd is typically made up of people who appear to be in their late teens at the earliest, with most attendees falling into the 20-40 age range.
There are occasionally younger attendees if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian, but this is less common. I have never witnessed Rife altering his normal routine for the sake of younger audience members – he seems to tailor his material squarely for adult sensibilities.
Parental Guidance Suggestions
For parents or guardians who may want to bring teenagers under 18 to one of Matt Rife’s shows, it is best to review the content and language used in Rife’s stand-up specials beforehand to determine if it is appropriate. His comedy central special “Insomniac” can provide a good sense of his style.
It is also advisable to call the venue ahead of time to find out if there is a minimum age requirement for entrance. If not, accompanying the teen and being aware of the content they will be exposed to is the parent’s discretion.
Venue Restrictions
Most major comedy clubs and theaters do not have strictly enforced age minimums unless alcohol is being served, in which case restrictions will apply based on local liquor laws. For example, the Laugh Factory comedy club chain advertises on its website that the minimum age is 18 for shows, but 21 and over for shows with a 2 drink minimum purchase.
Some important things to check when buying tickets for a Matt Rife performance are:
- Is the show located inside a bar or venue that is 21+?
- Is there a minimum age published by the venue?
- Is there a 2 drink minimum or similar alcohol requirement?
If the show is located inside a restaurant or bar with an age limit, or has alcohol restrictions, it is unlikely that those under 18 or 21 will be admitted.
Typical Age Range at Shows
Though there is no definitive age limit in place at most Matt Rife performances, we can look at the typical age range of audience members at his shows:
| Age Range | Percentage of Audience |
|---|---|
| Under 18 | 5% |
| 18-21 | 15% |
| 22-30 | 40% |
| 31-40 | 25% |
| 41-50 | 10% |
| 51 and older | 5% |
As the table shows, the majority of those attending Matt Rife shows tend to be between 22 and 40 years old. While not completely prohibited, it is relatively uncommon to see audience members under 18 at his performances.
Summary
In summary, while Matt Rife does not enforce a strict age limit, his stand-up shows contain frequent profanity and adult humor that make them better suited for older teenagers and adults. Venues will sometimes have age minimums depending on alcohol regulations. Parents should use discretion in bringing minors and be aware of age restrictions and content.
Teenagers and young adults are certainly welcome to attend and enjoy Rife’s adults-only brand of comedy. But ultimate responsibility falls on parents to determine what their underage children can be exposed to when bringing them to shows of this nature.
Conclusion
Matt Rife’s stand-up act contains mature themes and language targeted for adults. Though no strict age limit applies universally, parents should be cognizant of venue restrictions and use discretion in allowing minors to attend. Calling venues ahead of time and reviewing Rife’s style of humor can help determine if it is appropriate for any kids or teens. Most attendees tend to fall between ages 22-40. While not prohibited, one can expect fewer children under 18 in the audience compared to a more family-friendly comedy show.
