Comedy Clubs are the anchor of a typical comedy weekend, but they're not the only ones serving up jokes. Local theaters and other venues also offer stand-up comedy, and this week is no different. If you're looking to laugh, here are your best options.
Theaters
Jay Leno at The Capitol Theatre. Jay Leno really likes working. The day after his farewell on The Tonight Show he was in Florida for a run of shows, including a stop Ruth Eckerd Hall. Now he's already back in the area again, which is a happy development for those who couldn't get tickets to his sold-out date back in January. Showtimes are Saturday at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater. Info: atthecap.com or 727-791-7400.
Red Green at The Palladium. Green had a popular comedy show in Canada for 15 years, and now he brings his "How To Do Everything" show to St. Petersburg. His humor is more silly and family-friendly than most comedy options, and he seems to have nailed the misguided handyman persona. Showtime is Wednesday at 7 p.m. 253 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Info: mypalladium.org or 727-822-3590.
Comedy Clubs
Tony Woods at Tampa Improv. Uses a likeable stage presence and casual demeanor to get audiences on his side. His comedy isn't family-friendly, but he's sort of like a family member sharing hard truths about the world in an entertaining way.
Showtimes are Friday at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. Info: improvtampa.com or 813-864-4000.
Nick DiPaolo at Side Splitters. Odds are you've seen or heard DiPaolo somewhere — television shows, radio, comedy specials, etc. But in all of them he's offering unapologetic opinions in a brash style that mixes common sense, a sense of humor and sharp wit. This is a special engagement event. Showtimes are Thursday at 8:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. and Saturday at 8 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. 12938 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa. Info: sidesplitterscomedy.com or 813-960-1197.
Mike McCarthy at Snappers Grill & Comedy Club. McCarthy calls himself "the Comedy Barbarian," but he doesn't really use brute force to win over audiences. It's actually a combination of clever jokes and a confident personality. And sometimes, a kilt. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. 36657 U.S. 19 N., Palm Harbor. Info: snappersgrill.com or 727-938-2027.
Mark James at Coconuts (St. Pete Beach). James makes pretty regular stops to the Tampa Bay area, usually bringing a trunk full of friends with him. Comedy ventriloquism features plenty of puppets and a good dose of audience participation, so expect both at the beach this week. Showtimes are Wednesday-Saturday at 9:30 p.m. 6200 Gulf Blvd. at the Beachcomber Resort, St. Pete Beach. Info: coconutscomedyclubs.com or 727-360-5653.
Larry Lee Lewis at Jack's Joint. Imagine Jerry Lee Lewis telling one-liners along with his songs. That's kind of what you have here, although Larry isn't impersonating The Killer directly. But if you enjoy music and comedy together, this could be the show for you this weekend. Showtime is Saturday at 8:30 p.m. 2950 Gulf To Bay Blvd., Clearwater. Info: tampabaycomedy.com or 727-741-8014.
One-nighters and Independent Shows
After Party Comedy Show at Twisted Martini. Local talent Catherine Maloney, Rahn Hortman and John Jacobs top the bill at a showcase of comedians featuring mostly adult-oriented material. Showtime is Tuesday at 8 p.m. 13563 Icot Blvd., Clearwater. Info: 727-754-9800.
The Road Dogs of Comedy National touring acts Kevin White, Myke Herlihy and James Yon team up for a big touring show. $10 advance, $13 at the door. Thurs., March 27, 8 p.m. The Tampa Improv, 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Ybor City. 813-864-4000. improvtampa.com.
