Odds are you've seen this week's comedians somewhere. Either on MTV — a number of performers have been on programs there — or local stages. Quite a few live right here in our area. But they'll all bring plenty of personality and jokes. Here's the lineup this week.
Comedy Clubs
Pauly Shore at Tampa Improv. Shore's fans still quote his silly movies and MTV appearances from decades past, but he's a longtime stand-up veteran as well. "The Weasel" should have a significant following in attendance this weekend.
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. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. Info: improvtampa.com or 813-864-4000.
Chris DiStefano and Damien Lemon at Side Splitters. DiStefano and Lemon are regulars on MTV2's popular Guy Code. They'll bring high energy stand-up performances and familiar show topics to the stage. Given the popularity of the show (it's already aired four seasons) this should be a well-attended run.
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 Highway, Tampa. Info: sidesplitterscomedy.com or 813-960-1197.
Bobby Jewell at Side Splitters. The club's owner takes the stage for the early Saturday show. Aside from his own stand-up comedy, he'll have a number of talented local performers as support acts.
Showtime is Saturday at 6 p.m.
James Yon at Snappers. Yon has a likable, animated personality, some musical impressions and a diverse background (he's part-African-American, part Asian). That gives him a lot of comedic ammunition, and he'll use all of it on stage in Palm Harbor.
Showtimes are Friday at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. 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.
Chris Gorges at Coconuts Comedy Club (at MJs). Gorges is fast, mentally and physically. He provides quick wit, an energetic stage presence and plenty of crowd work with he's in front of a mic. Expect rapid-fire comedy from an experienced improvisational performer.
Showtimes are Wednesday-Saturday at 9:30 p.m. 5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Info: coconutscomedyclubs.com or 727-360-5653.
Steve Arik at 2 Palms Bar & Bistro. Arik usually gives his audience a choice of the "clean show" or the "dirty show." Pick the latter. His comedy is witty, personable and peppered with strong 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
Bull at Niagara Tap (free show). Bull looks like a mean guy, but he's really a dad with a positive outlook, a friendly demeanor and plenty of jokes. He'll share some relatively-clean stories Friday night.
Showtime is Friday at 7 p.m. Niagara Tap is located at 11950 Seminole Blvd. in Largo. For more information, visit theniagaratap.com or call 727-581-5331.
John Jacobs at Oldsmar Tap House. Local comedian Jacobs is something of a reality television star with his recent turn on MTV's Are You The One? But he's also known for his pop culture references, irreverent stage demeanor and clever wordplay.
Showtime is Saturday at 9 p.m. 300 State St. E., Oldsmar. Info: 813-475-5996.