Nationally-touring headliners and local talent make up this week's stand-up fare. The list ranges from comedians with television and movie credits to guys who just have a long resume of making audiences laugh. Either way, there's plenty of talent on tap. Here's the best bets for this week:
Theaters
Wild 94.1's Shut Up and Laugh at The Mahaffey. 94.1 puts together an evening of headliners for this special event. Mike Epps, Jo Koy and Michael Che can be seen closing shows in comedy clubs around the country, but they'll join forces on Friday for a big night of laughs. Showtime is Friday at 8 p.m. 400 1st St. S., St. Petersburg. Info: themahaffey.com or 727-892-5767.
Alan Prophet and Michael Murillo at The Palladium (Side Door). Comedian Ward Smith puts together this comedy show every Sunday in August at the Palladium's Side Door. Prophet is a seasoned vet with decades in the business. Murillo is the guy writing this weekly column. I could say he's really funny, but it would be kind of biased. But seriously, see Prophet. Showtime is Sunday at 7:30 p.m. 253 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Info: mypalladium.org or 727-822-3590.
Comedy Clubs
Greg Fitzsimmons at Tampa Improv. Fitzsimmons is known for his biting sarcasm and acerbic wit. The award-winning writer certainly won't run out of adult topics for his fans to enjoy, and his shows should be among the top draws this weekend. 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. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. Info: improvtampa.com or 813-864-4000.
Jamie Kennedy at Side Splitters. Kennedy has extensive movie and television credits, and his most famous ones include his ability to play outrageous and memorable characters. His versatility will be on display as he uses those talents to entertain stand-up audiences. 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 Highway, Tampa. Info: sidesplitterscomedy.com or 813-960-1197.
Steve Miller at Side Splitters. Local comedian Miller is known to radio audiences and comedy club patrons alike, and his set includes plenty of self-deprecating material. He wins over crowds with his likable personality and ability to translate his personal struggles into humorous premises. Showtime is Saturday at 6 p.m.
RC Smith at Snappers Grill & Comedy Club. Being a warm-up act for television shows is hard work, but Smith excels at it with fast-paced material, seemingly-spontaneous energy and a strong stage presence. He'll bring all those tools and more to four headlining shows this weekend. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. 36657 U.S. Highway 19 N., Palm Harbor. Info: snappersgrill.com or 727-938-2027.
Ted Holum at Coconuts Comedy Clubs (at MJs). Holum provides clean, clever comedy to his audiences. Most of the shows this weekend feature adult themes and language, so if you prefer your stand-up without the naughty content, this is probably the show for you. Showtimes are Wednesday-Saturday at 9:30 p.m. 5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Info: coconutscomedyclubs.com or 727-360-5653.
Bull at 2 Palms Bar & Bistro. Bull looks like an angry bouncer, but looks can be deceiving. In reality, he's a friendly dad with a likable personality and an ability to connect with audiences on everyday topics. Showtime is Saturday at 8:30 p.m. 2950 Gulf To Bay Blvd., Clearwater. Info: tampabaycomedy.com or 727-741-8014.
