This week, comedians are in town at major clubs for special engagement shows. There are also a number of nationally-touring headliners making stops this week. Here are your best bets for stand-up comedy in the Tampa Bay area:
Note: "Special engagement" shows normally do not accept passes and have a higher ticket price than a regular show. Visit the website or call the box office for ticket availability before you go.
Comedy Clubs
Kevin Nealon at Tampa Improv. You know Nealon from Saturday Night Live and his smooth delivery in the Weekend Update chair, but he's been doing stand-up comedy for more than 30 years. He has a sharp focus and an eye for what's funny, and he's in Tampa for a special engagement weekend. 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., Ybor City. Info: improvtampa.com or 813-864-4000.
March Mad Men Ness at Tampa Improv. This Wednesday's show combines the popular television show Mad Men with the annual NCAA tournament. How? You'll have to see local performers Law Smith, Mona Chiarizio, John Jacobs, J.B. Ball, Matt Fernandez, David Weingarten, Joe Riga, Catherine Maloney and Johnny B to find out. Whatever it is, it will definitely feature adult content and a lot of laughs. Showtime is Wednesday at 8 p.m. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Ybor City. Info: improvtampa.com or 813-864-4000.
Jon Reep at Side Splitters. Reep won Last Comic Standing in 2007, but he's been performing strand-up comedy for more than two decades. His down-home humor is presented in a sharp, animated style that keeps him touring nationally. This is a special engagement show. Showtimes are Thursday at 8:30 p.m., Friday at 8 p.m. and 10:15 p.m., Saturday at 8 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. and Sunday at 7 p.m. 12938 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa. Info: sidesplitterscomedy.com or 813-960-1197.
Keith Barany at Snappers Grill & Comedy Club. Barany is one of the cleaner comedians you'll find this week, but that doesn't mean his comedy isn't sharp. His self-deprecating banter and relaxed stage presence creates and entertaining set without the typical adult language and themes you'll find on most stages. 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.
Ben Hague at Coconuts (St. Pete Beach). Hague looks like a college kid, but his observations about friendships and relationships show a relatable wit that keeps audiences of all ages laughing. 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.
Steve Baird at Jack's Joint. Baird's a local comedian with 25 years of stage experience. His casual style includes clever wordplay and plenty of tags to his sarcastic punchlines. 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.
Doug Canney at Pegasus Lounge. Canney has a confident stage presence and isn't afraid to share his opinions on stage. Fortunately, those opinions on everyday life happen to be funny as well. Expect plenty of frank talk about sex, relationships and whatever else comes to mind. Showtime is Saturday at 9 p.m. 10008 N. 30th St., Tampa. Info: pegasusniteclub.com.