Do you like animated, energetic comedians? Low-key, clever writers? Comedy hypnotists? Musician/comedians? How about a parody show? Maybe someone famous, or a local talent? Whatever you want to see, something should appeal to you this weekend.
The great thing about having so many venues is performers want to come here. There are restaurants and bars, several comedy clubs, theaters and arenas which can all hold a comedy show. And they do. So find something fun and have a few laughs this week.
Here’s the lineup:
Theaters and Special Events
Gabriel Iglesias at the Sun Dome. “Fluffy” is quite a character. His Hawaiian shirts, emphatic storytelling and expressive voices have helped Iglesias stand out among many of his contemporaries. He’s long been a consistent sellout in comedy clubs. But you won’t see him at one this week. Iglesias has moved up past clubs and into arenas, playing the USF Sun Dome on Friday. But he’s still the same character, delivering his animated stories and material to his loyal following. Showtime is Friday at 8 p.m. $35.75-$71.75. 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. Info: 813-974-3111 or sundomearena.com.
Rodney Carrington at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Carrington’s show is part stand-up and part music, both with a decidedly-country tilt. But neither side of the show is lacking. He’s a witty, easy-going stand-up comedian, and an accomplished singer to boot. Expect plenty of both, with tight writing keeping it all together. Showtime is Saturday at 7 p.m. $45.75. 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. Info: rutheckerdhall.com or 727-791-7400.
Comedy Clubs
Gary Conrad at Tampa Improv. Comedy hypnotism relies on volunteers and the power of suggestion to create a unique, organic show each time out. Conrad’s a seasoned pro, molding each cast into an entertaining show for everyone. His Wednesday show is more “PG” rated, with the Thursday and Sunday shows falling more on the “R” side of things. Showtimes are Wednesday at 8 p.m., Thursday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 9:30 p.m. $10-$12. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. Info: improvtampa.com or 813-864-4000.
Jamie Lee at Tampa Improv. MTV fans know Lee from “Girl Code” and she was a semi-finalist on “Last Comic Standing.” But even if you didn’t know her, you’d appreciate her witty misdirections and good sense of comic timing. Her likeable stage presence let her get away with plenty of inappropriate premises. 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. $20. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. Info: improvtampa.com or 813-864-4000.
JB Ball at Side Splitters. Ball is the winner of both Side Splitters’ own March Madness competition and Florida’s Funniest Comedian. Here he gets to show why with a full headlining set on Thursday night. He’ll display his intelligent, observational material presented with a casual, stage-comfortable demeanor. Showtime is Thursday at 8:30 p.m. $10-$12. 12938 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa. Info: sidesplitterscomedy.com or 813-960-1197.
Sean Patton at Side Splitters. Patton could be the guy you meet in line to get into a show, except he’s funnier than the show. His casual demeanor makes him immediately relatable and familiar, but his opinions come from the clever mind of a comfortable stand-up comedian. Showtimes are 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, Tampa. Info: sidesplitterscomedy.com or 813-960-1197.
Brad Trackman at Snappers Grill & Comedy Club. Trackman isn’t the most animated comedian you’ll see. But his understated presence — and a self-deprecating nature — provides a nice springboard for his storytelling and observations about relationships and family. Showtimes are Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and 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.
Bryan Hamilton at Joke Factory. Hamilton seems like an imposing character when you first meet him. But, like a weird neighbor you get to know over time, he’s a likeable personality with a knack for slightly bizarre, story-driven comedy. Showtime is Thursday at 7:30 p.m. $5-$7. 5015 U.S. 19, New Port Richey. Info: nprjokefactory.com or 727-807-6974.
Frankie Paul at Coconuts Comedy Club (at MJ’s). Paul’s a longtime performer and it shows in his ease on stage. He has full command of his material and the timing required to deliver it. Showtimes are Wednesday through Saturday at 9:30 p.m. $18-$22. 5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Info: coconutscomedyclubs.com or 727-360-5653.
Godfather Comedy Show with Joe Beddia at 2 Palms Bar & Bistro. This show is a comical tribute to Marlon Brando’s iconic Godfather character, featuring impressions and music. Beddia tends to really get into his roles: He’s performed a one-man tribute to George Carlin at this same venue. One night only. Showtime is Saturday at 8:30 p.m. $12-$15. 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 9:05 p.m. $20. 17093 Gulf Blvd., North Redington Beach. Info: 727-596-6725 or gdavidhoward.com.
This article appears in May 7-13, 2015.
