A couple of well-known funny ladies are in town this weekend. But that's just a part of the comedy schedule. There's also magicians, local comedians and a popular "Jackass" to see.
Here's the list of stand-up comedians hitting stages this weekend.
Theaters and Special Events
CL Pick: Wanda Sykes at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Sykes' reputation as an outspoken comedian is very much in tact. Over the years, she's honed her observations into sharp comedy, covering race, politics and other topics you shouldn't discuss in polite company. Showtime is Friday at 8 p.m. $43-$59.75. 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. Info: RuthEckerdHall.com or 727-791-7400.
Comedy Clubs
Kool Bubba Ice at Tampa Improv. It's hard to ignore Kool Bubba Ice on stage, with loud colorful costumes and an energetic set. It's all done with laughs in mind, and he's in town for two nights of shows this week. Showtimes are Wednesday at 8 p.m. and Thursday at 8 p.m. $10-$12. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. Info: ImprovTampa.com or 813-864-4000.
CL Pick: Margaret Cho at Tampa Improv. Cho has built a strong fan base over the years with her socially-aware, unafraid commentary and comedy. Expect lively crowds for these special engagement shows. Showtimes are Friday at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. $25. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. Info: ImprovTampa.com or 813-864-4000.
Luenell with Red Grant at Tampa Improv. Luenell is brash, outspoken and takes no prisoners on stage. And Red Grant is no different. They'll make a strong combination on Sunday night. Showtime is Sunday at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. $25. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. Info: ImprovTampa.com or 813-864-4000.
CL Pick: Steve Miller at Side Splitters. Miller's a master of clever self-deprecation. But it's really a way to get you to laugh along with the local comedian's cynical perspectives. Showtime is Saturday at 6 p.m. $10. 12938 N. Dale Mabry , Tampa. Info: SideSplittersComedy.com or 813-960-1197.
Steve-O at Side Splitters. One of the most notorious "Jackass" members has carved out a stand-up career over the last few years. His popularity gives him a unique platform to share his comedic thoughts. Showtimes are Thursday at 8:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., Saturday at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. and Sunday at 7 p.m. $22-$25. 12938 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa. Info: SideSplittersComedy.com or 813-960-1197.
Jack Willhite at Snappers Grill & Comedy Club. Willhite's a one-man theatrical show, with music, costume changes and plenty of comedy. The audience should do plenty of laughing as they try to catch their breath. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. $12. 36657 U.S. 19 N., Palm Harbor. Info: SnappersGrill.com or 727-938-2027.
Larry Myles at Coconuts Comedy Club (at MJ's). At first glance, Myles doesn't seem like a politically-correct guy. And that first impression is the right one. He uses his no-nonsense wit to share his opinions on a variety of topics. Showtimes are Wednesday through Saturday at 9:30 p.m. 5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Info: CoconutsComedyClubs.com or 727-360-5653.
Elliot Smith at 2 Palms Bay & Bistro. Smith's show includes both magic and comedy. So if you'd like some sleight of hand along with your stand-up, this might be the show for you. Showtime is Saturday at 8:30 p.m. $10. 2950 Gulf To Bay Blvd., Clearwater. Info: TampaBayComedy.com or 727-741-8014.
One-nighters and Independent Shows
G. David Howard at Sporty's On The Beach. Howard's weekly residence at Sporty's features the longtime comedian drawing from his decades of stage experience. He mixes his regular material with plenty of crowd work to provide the kind of set only a true stand-up veteran can provide.
By the way, there's a $5 coupon for this show on Howard's website under "special offers." Showtime is Friday and Saturday at 8:30 p.m. $20. 17093 Gulf Blvd., North Redington Beach. Info: 727-596-6725 or GDavidHoward.com.
This article appears in Feb 19-25, 2015.