Big comedy names, musical humor, naked magic and a dragon. It's not a flashback from a lost weekend in the '60s. They're not just part of the diverse comedy lineup in town this weekend. Whether you want to hit the theater for a big night out, or catch a free show put on by locals, there's bound to be something to keep you laughing this week.
Here's the lineup:
Theaters and Special Events
Kevin Nealon at The Palladium. Nealon wasn't just a role player on "Saturday Night Live." He was a Weekend Update anchor (a prestigious position), and played characters through nine seasons on the show.
That was two decades ago, and Nealon is still a recognizable figure, thanks to television clips, movie roles and, of course, stand-up comedy. Nealon's supremely comfortable on stage, sharing premises, stories and observations with the experience of a pop culture vet, and the likeability of a trusted comedy presence. Showtime is Saturday at 8 p.m. $37.50-$52.50. 253 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Info: 727-822-3590 or mypalladium.org.
Bo Burnham at The Straz (Ferguson Hall). Bo Burnham is a comedian, but it would be a stretch to call him a stand-up comedian. He tells funny stories, and displays wit and wisdom (especially for his age) in his work. But they're not run-of-the-mill jokes. They're clever songs, weaving between irreverent societal commentary and structured wordplay designed to keep you laughing and thinking. And plenty of fans are expected to do just that at his only Tampa stop this tour. Showtime is Thursday at 8 p.m. $39.50. 1010 N. MacInnes Place in Tampa. Info: strazcenter.org or 813-229-7827.
The Naked Magic Show at The Straz (Ferguson Hall). Do you like magic, but find yourself thinking that the performers wear too many clothes? These guys are here to fix that problem a magic show where the outfits have disappeared.
The show is extremely popular Down Under, and they're earning rave reviews for their unique brand of comedy and magic. At least we know there's nothing up their sleeves. Showtime is Friday at 7 p.m. $49-$59. 1010 N. MacInnes Place in Tampa. Info: strazcenter.org or 813-229-7827.
Comedy Clubs
Comedy From the Road Less Traveled at Tampa Improv. This semi-regular show at The Improv features quirky humor for those who like outside-the-box comedy. Performers include Kyle Ruse, Jennifer Hensleigh, Rio Paris, Jared Waters and Matt Bergman. Showtime is Thursday at 8 p.m. $7. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa (Ybor City). Info: improvtampa.com or 813-864-4000.
Bruce Bruce at Tampa Improv. Bruce Bruce is a big guy, but he's also a big presence on the comedy stage. And who wouldn't want to see a well-dressed, experienced performer who doesn't bother with filters or political correctness? Expect plenty of jokes, funny family stories, audience interaction and enthusiastic fans at these special engagement shows. Showtimes are 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. $25 (special engagement). 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa (Ybor City). Info: improvtampa.com or 813-864-4000.
Florida's Funniest Comedian Contest at Tampa Improv. This annual contest includes a number of hopefuls around the state performing at several venues. The Oct. 21 show at Tampa Improv will end by sending the evening's best to the semi-finals. Showtime is Wednesday, Oct. 21, at 8 p.m. $5. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa (Ybor City). Info: improvtampa.com or 813-864-4000.
Piff the Magic Dragon at Side Splitters. How can we describe Piff? He's funny. He does magic. And he seems like the kind of dragon who got in trouble at dragon school for being a smartass. If you saw him on "America's Got Talent," you know what we mean. If you didn't, get ready for something weird, memorable and pretty damn entertaining.
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. $18-$20 (special engagement). 12938 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa. Info: sidesplitterscomedy.com or 813-960-1197. coconutscomedyclubs.com
David Merry at Snappers Grill & Comedy Club. Merry's both a comedian and magician. That means his show is designed to keep you guessing and laughing, often at the same time. It's not a traditional comedy club show, but if you like some sleight of hand with your stand-up, Merry's a good option this weekend. Showtimes are Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday at 7 and 9:30 p.m. $12. 36657 U.S. 19 N., Palm Harbor. Info: snappersgrill.com or 727-938-2027.
Bull at Coconuts Comedy Club (at MJ's). Bull doesn't look like a friendly father of five, but that's who he really is. He probably doesn't have a mean bone in his body. But he does have plenty of accessible and clever jokes, and he delivers them without being dirty. Showtimes are Wednesday through Saturday at 9:30 p.m. $18-$25. 5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Info: coconutscomedyclubs.com or 727-360-5653.
Mike Rivera at 2 Palms. Rivera has more than a quarter-century in the business and the title of America's Most Hilarious Teacher, which he earned from ABC's "The View." His fast-paced set features a little audience interaction and plenty of adult-oriented topics. Showtime is Saturday at 8:30 p.m. $10. 2950 Gulf To Bay Blvd., Clearwater. Info: 2palmstampabay.com or 727-400-6920.
One-nighters and Independent Shows
Cigar City Comedy at Wicked 'Wiches.
This weekly free show (donations accepted) includes a few shorter sets followed by a featured closer, usually delivering adult material. This week's closer is Carmen Ciricillo. Showtime is Thursday at 8:30 p.m. Free (donation). 223 S. Howard Ave., Tampa. Info: cigarcitycomedy.com.
Kava Komedy at Bula Cafe. This regular show features local up-and-comers to warm up the crowd, and a more established closer to cap things off. This week it's Johnny Oz. Showtime is Thursday at 9 p.m. Free. 2500 5th Ave N., St. Petersburg. Info: 727-498-8913.
Kava Komedy at Red Tiki Bar. This show follows the Kava formula of up-and-comers providing support to an experienced closer. For this show, like Kava's other gig at Bula cafe, the audience will be entertained by Johnny Oz. Showtime is Saturday at 8 p.m. Free. 7361 46th Ave N., St. Petersburg. Info: 727-914-8928.
This article appears in Oct 8-14, 2015.