What kind of comedy do you like? Music or hypnosis? Nationally-touring headliners or local talent? Want to see a free show? Whatever you like, we've got you covered this week.
There will be plenty of variety on stages this weekend. Here are your best bets:
Theaters and Special Events
Bill Engvall at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Engvall will always be known for his part in the popular Blue Collar Comedy tours. He even has his own catchphrase ("Here's your sign"). But his observational comedy goes a little deeper than that, with witty, relatable premises and the ability to bring the funny out of everyday topics. Showtime is Saturday at 8 p.m. $49.75-$125. 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. Info: RuthEckerdHall.com or 727-791-7400.
Girls Night Out at Largo Cultural Center. A trio of funny local ladies take the stage for one night only. Robin Savage, Catherine Maloney and Mary Tischbein share stories about marriage, motherhood, being a caregiver…and getting stuck in a kayak. Yes, it’s a diverse set from these experienced stand-ups. Showtime is Friday at 8 p.m. $24.50-$39.50. 105 Third St. SE, Largo. Info: LargoArts.com or 727-587-6793.
Comedy Clubs
Lewd, Crude and Tattooed at Tampa Improv. This showcase of inked-up funnymen highlights local talent providing adult-oriented comedy. Kyle Ruse, Lazlow, Matt Fernandez and John J. Murray are on the bill. Showtime is Wednesday at 8 p.m. $7. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. Info: ImprovTampa.com or 813-864-4000.
Jamie Lissow at Tampa Improv. Lissow has a keen eye for absurdities in everyday life. A typical day for someone else is a day full of premises and setups for him, and he knows how to translate it into sharp punchlines for everyone who can relate to it. Showtimes are Thursday at 8 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. and Sunday at 7 p.m. $16-$20. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. Info: ImprovTampa.com or 813-864-4000.
Flip Orley at Side Splitters. Orley is one part stand-up comedian and one part comedy hypnotist. The laughs come from him, and from the audience volunteers as he puts them through their paces with his suggestions. Showtimes are Thursday at 8:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m. and 10:15 p.m., Saturday at 6 p.m., 8 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. and Sunday at 7 p.m. $10-$16.50. 12938 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa. Info: SideSplittersComedy.com or 813-960-1197.
Michael Mack at Snappers Grill & Comedy Club. Mack's set includes a heavy dose of music, from song parodies to bizarre impressions. But the key is he's very good at it, so a favorite and familiar tune will provide a lot of comedy as well. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. $12. 36657 U.S. Highway 19 N., Palm Harbor. Info: SnappersGrill.com or 727-938-2027.
Steve Netta at Coconuts Comedy Club (at MJ's). Netta's quick wit and sarcasm is on display this week. His years of experience comes through during his fast-paced set. Showtimes are Wednesday through Saturday at 9:30 p.m. 5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. $18-$25. Info: CoconutsComedyClubs.com or 727-360-5653.
Patrick McInnis at 2 Palms Bar & Bistro. McInnis is an established improvisational showman. He'll be using some of those talents to enhance his comedy hypnosis show, where volunteers provide the entertainment based on his suggestions. 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
Steve Netta at Niagara Tap (free show). Local funnyman Netta gets in a set at this monthly show, which will likely feature plenty of self-deprecation and comedy based on his Italian heritage and upbringing. Showtime is Friday at 7 p.m. 11950 Seminole Blvd. in Largo. Info: TheNiagaraTap.com or 727-581-5331.
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 experience only a true stand-up veteran can provide. Showtime is Friday and Saturday at 8:30 p.m. $15. 17093 Gulf Blvd., North Redington Beach. Info: 727-596-6725.
This article appears in Dec 25-31, 2014.