Comedy clubs are a great option if you want to see comedy. But they're certainly not the only option.
Plenty of other venues are putting on shows this week: Cultural centers, restaurants, bars and bowling alleys have put together an eclectic mix of performers.
Some are during the week, others are on the weekend and there's even a free show. So if you're not laughing this weekend, you only have yourself to blame.
Here are your best bets this week:
Comedy Clubs
Mark Viera at Tampa Improv. Viera's high-energy material will keep audiences laughing, whether he's sharing a story, delivering a punchline or going off on a comedic tangent. His infectious personality gives the clever material even stronger appeal. 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. $15-$17. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa (Ybor City). Info: improvtampa.com or 813-864-4000.
Mike E. Winfield at Side Splitters. Winfield is a young guy with a confident, comfortable stage demeanor. The premises might sound like causal conversation, but the material is thoughtful and showcases his sharp wit. 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, Tampa. Info: sidesplitterscomedy.com or 813-960-1197.
Joe DeLion at Snappers Grill & Comedy Club. A 30-year stage veteran, DeLion is a nationally-touring comedian, magician and mentalist. If you'd like some variety in your comedy, DeLion has the talents to add a little extra to the traditional stand-up formula. 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.
Tim Moffett at Coconuts Comedy Club (at MJ's). "The Dairy Farmer" is an annual presence at Coconuts, bringing his down-home humor back to the beach this week. His folksy charm helps deliver crowd-pleasing material. Showtimes are Wednesday through Saturday at 9:30 p.m. 5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Info: coconutscomedyclubs.com or 727-360-5653.
Catherine Maloney at 2 Palms. Maloney's acidic personality gives her material extra bite, and also gives her special artistic license when she's riffing with the crowd. Expect plenty of creative, adult content. 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
25 to Life at Firehouse Cultural Center. This regular showcase features comedians with at least 25 years (usually more) in the business. That means established material from experienced performers in a real converted firehouse. This time around, it's Lou Angelwolf and Carmen Ciricillo, with a guest set from actor/comedian Ward Smith. Showtime is Friday at 7:30 p.m. $15-$25. 101 1st Ave. N.E., Ruskin. Info: firehouseculturalcenter.org or 813-645-7651.
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 Devin Siebold. Showtime is Thursday at 8:30 p.m. Free (donation). 223 S. Howard Ave., Tampa. Info: cigarcitycomedy.com.
Jeff Gerbino at R Beach. Gerbino has more than three decades in the business and an arsenal of time-tested material. He'll bring his experience and comfortable stage presence to Hernando county for two shows. Local favorite Rahn Hortman performs in a supporting role . Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 8:30 p.m. $10-$15. 4045 Shoal Line Blvd., Hernando Beach. Info: 352-592-5556.
Gutterballs Comedy Cabaret at The Alley. This regular show features a showcase of up-and-comers with a professional performing in the middle and another to close out the show. Stage vets Steve Miller and Devin Siebold provide the experienced material on Friday night. Showtime is Friday at 8 p.m. $5. 10221 Big Bend Road, Riverview. Info: 813-672-8353.
Andy Andrist at at Coconuts Comedy Club (at MJ's). If you like uplifting, happy comedy, stay the hell away from Andy Andrist. But if you like raw, politically-incorrect cynicism that keeps people laughing, this might be the show for you. Damien Figler, Nico Prada, Brian Coronado and Kyle Ruse provide support. Showtime is Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. $20. 5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Info: 727-360-5653.
This article appears in Oct 15-21, 2015.