Tampa Bay is opening back up, and comedy clubs are slowly following suit.
Most of the area's major clubs either have new dates on the calendar, or are gearing up to open their doors again. That means a long-awaited return to live comedy.
It also means a few changes: Extra attention to sanitizing and cleaning, lots of social distancing and limited-capacity seating, for starters. And you probably won't see performers shaking hands or doling out hugs after the show.
But you will see comedians in their element, with a mic and a stage and lot of material they want to share. After all, they've had plenty of down time to write new jokes. You can get out of the house, have a few laughs and help local businesses (and their comedians, servers and other staff) that are eager to get back up and running. "Please tip your wait staff" means more now than ever.
Side Splitters in Tampa begins its first weekend back tonight, with Cleveland's Mike Paramore headlining. Shows run through Sunday.
Snappers Grill & Comedy Club in Palm Harbor starts up a week later, with shows June 5 and 6. Chad Zumock is headlining.
Tampa Improv in Ybor City is eyeing a mid-June return. There's no official word on start date or talent, but keep checking their website for details soon.
Coconuts Comedy Club in St. Pete Beach is still closed, with no specific return date announced. Their website has not been updated, but should have new information when it becomes available.
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This article appears in May 21-27, 2020.