Jessica Kelley
Creative Director & Talent Booker
Jessica Kelley is the Creative Director and Head Booker of The Elysian Theater in Los Angeles, one of the country’s leading destinations for alternative comedy, original live performance, and innovative theatrical entertainment. Known for her sharp eye for talent and impeccable creative instincts, Kelley has built a reputation as one of the most influential comedy bookers and live event curators working today. Under her leadership, The Elysian has become a premier Los Angeles comedy venue, showcasing groundbreaking comedians, writers, performers, and multidisciplinary artists from across the entertainment industry.Prior to joining The Elysian, Kelley played a key role in launching two of Los Angeles’ most beloved comedy venues—Dynasty Typewriter and the celebrated revival of The Lyric Hyperion—helping shape the city’s thriving independent comedy scene and contributing to the growth of some of the most exciting live comedy programming in the country.Before stepping into venue leadership, Kelley spent more than a decade as a talent manager at Avail Management, where she specialized in representing comedians, writers, actors, and comedy multi-hyphenates across stand-up, television, film, podcasts, and digital media. Her work focused on developing distinctive voices, discovering emerging talent, and building long-term careers in the entertainment industry.Originally from Canada, Kelley began her career in entertainment before relocating to Los Angeles, where she has become a respected leader in comedy programming, talent development, live events, and arts community building. Her commitment to originality, collaboration, and creative experimentation continues to shape the future of independent comedy and live performance in Los Angeles and beyond.