After last week's wild comedy schedule, we're back to normal this week with television stars, comedy hypnotists and local favorites. There are plenty of options, including a little clean comedy. Here are your best bets this weekend:
Dan Cummins at Tampa Improv. Cummins has a quirky, hip sense of humor. He can go from talking about religion to superheroes and not miss a beat of his casual, clever style. 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.
Sullivan & Son Comedy Tour at Tampa Improv. Fans of Sullivan & Son know that the show's cast includes plenty of comedians, and they'll display their stand-up skills at this one-night-only show. Steve Byrne, Ahmed Ahmed, Roy Wood, Jr. and Owen Benjamin get back to their comedy roots without the filters and restrictions that television imposes. Showtime is Tuesday at 8 p.m. improvtampa.com.
Gary Conrad at Tampa Improv. Comedy hyponosis seems like it would be difficult to pull off night after night, but Conrad has the experience to make it look easy. The volunteers make the show with their antics, guided by the power of Conrad's suggestions. For family-friendly fare, catch the early Sunday show. Showtimes are Wednesday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 4:30 p.m. improvtampa.com.
Quinn Dahle at Side Splitters. Dahle works clean, so it's a break from the traditional comedy club fare in that regard. But the traditional comedy club audience is part of the show, as Dahle enjoys interacting with the crowds that come to see him perform. Showtimes are Thursday at 8 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. 12938 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa. Info: sidesplitterscomedy.com or 813-960-1197.
Keith Purnell at Snappers Grill & Comedy Club. Purnell has a strong stage presence and delivers his jokes with plenty of energy and few limits on his material. He isn't afraid of adding in some racial humor, and his audiences aren't afraid of hearing it. 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.
Mike Rivera at Coconuts Comedy Club (at MJ's). ABC's The View dubbed him America's Funniest Teacher, and school's in session when he's on stage. Expect some class participation and a fast-paced lesson plan that's not appropriate for children. Showtimes are Wednesday-Saturday at 9:30 p.m. 5501 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Info: coconutscomedyclubs.com or 727-360-5653.
Trish Keating at 2 Palms Bar & Bistro. Keating's at a point in her life where she she's still looking for Mr. Right, but his credit score will probably determine his sex appeal. Her material is sarcastic, witty and entertaining. Showtime is Saturday at 8:30 p.m. 2950 Gulf-to-Bay Blvd., Clearwater. Info: tampabaycomedy.com or 727-741-8014.
