It's a pretty full slate this weekend, with theaters, comedy clubs and independent venues all putting on stand-up comedy shows. If you're looking for laughs, you should have no problem finding them this week and weekend. Here's what's on the schedule this week:
Theaters
Jay Mohr at The Straz. Even if you don't know Mohr from his stand-up comedy, you'd know him for his role in "Jerry Maguire," or his sports talk show or his popular podcast. But really, you should know him for his stand-up, too. His quick wit and sharp delivery has made him a popular draw for comedy audiences. Showtime is Saturday at 7:30 p.m. 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. Info: strazcenter.org or 813-229-7827.
Comedy Clubs
Arnez J at Tampa Improv. Arnez J brings a high-energy, active set to the comedy stage. His animated personality meshes well with his storytelling, keeping audiences entertained mentally and visually. Expect big crowds all weekend; these are special engagement shows. 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.
Crack Up Cancer at Tampa Improv. As the name implies, this is a benefit show for those battling cancer — specifically, patients at Moffitt Cancer Center and All Children's Hospital. Dean Napolitano, Steve Netta, Tim Pulnik, John Jacobs, Tony Gaud and Chris Matson will entertain the crowd for a good cause. Showtime is Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.
Happy Cole at Side Splitters. Cole's engaged, likable personality leads the audience through a variety of topics, which could include family, race and whatever else comes to mind. If the first punch line doesn't get you, the follow-ups and tags probably will. 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. 12938 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa. Info: sidesplitterscomedy.com or 813-960-1197.
Slade Ham at Side Splitters. Ham is a young guy with plenty of opinions and the personality to share them in an entertaining way. From crazy relationships to people-watching, Ham's perspectives are relatable even when they're absurd. Showtime is Thursday at 8:30 p.m.
Dave Siegel at Snappers Grill & Comedy Club. Siegel is good a breaking down everyday situations with a rational eye, and exposing the absurdity, hypocrisy and hilarity inside. There's some thinking involved with his comedy, and that's a good thing. It's worth it. 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.
John Knight at Coconuts Comedy Club (at MJs). Knight has a loud stage presence, but an easygoing style as well. If that sounds contradictory, it's part of the balancing act performed by a comedy vet with decades in the business. Either way, his thoughtful storytelling provides plenty of punch lines. Showtimes are Wednesday-Saturday at 9:30 p.m. 5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Info: coconutscomedyclubs.com or 727-360-5653.
Elliot Smith at 2 Palms Bar & Bistro. If you like comedy and magic, this is the show for you this week. Smith combines two forms of entertainment to keep the crowd guessing and laughing. Showtime is Saturday at 7 p.m. 2950 Gulf To Bay Blvd., Clearwater. Info: tampabaycomedy.com or 727-741-8014.
Pat Duax at 2 Palms Bar & Bistro. Duax brings his storytelling style back to 2 Palms for the second show of the evening. He has the confident style of a seasoned performer. Showtime is Saturday at 8:30 p.m.
One-nighters and Independent Shows
G. David Howard at Sporty's. Odds are that wherever Howard is performing, he's the most experienced stand-up in town. Decades' worth of jokes are available to him, and he'll use what's in his significant comedy arsenal to keep audiences entertained. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 9 p.m. 17093 Gulf Blvd., North Redington Beach. Info: 727-596-6725.