A comedy club has stepped in to help a local comedian who lost his home in an electrical fire. 

Clark Brooks, a regular at Side Splitters and other improv and sketch events in the area, lost his home earlier this month. He and his pets are safe, but most possessions have been lost. While other people are making holiday plans, Brooks is now trying to find permanent shelter and a way to rebuild. 

Side Splitters, a comedy club known for helping local performers in need, hosts a benefit show to help Brooks at their Dale Mabry location on Sunday. Ticket proceeds will help the comedian with the various expenses related to losing his residence. A GoFundMe has been set up to help Brooks as well.

The lineup will include previous Best of the Bay winners Rahn Hortman, Jeff Klein and Steve Miller.

Brian Thompson, owner of Side Splitters, told Creative Loafing that comedians started volunteering to participate immediately after hearing about the fundraiser, including those who had benefits held for them in the past.

“I am just happy to be in a position to be able to help people when they need it,” Thompson said via email. “He (Brooks) would not have asked for this but I know it will help him get the essentials he needs and start to get back on his feet. Hopefully it lifts his spirits as well.”

Tickets start at $23.50 for the Fundraiser for Clark Brooks on Sunday, Dec. 21 in Tampa.

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This article appears in Dec. 18 – 24, 2025.