NYC Comedy Picks for Monday 3/2/09
Jimmy Fallon debuts at 12:37 am as the new host of NBC's beloved insomniac comedy extravaganza Late Night
Tonight's recommendations for the best in New York City comedy
(in chronological order, with top picks noted and shows over $10 marked with $) include:
the perfect show for short attention spans—open mic stand-up with 4½ minutes per set
and 25 comics crammed into 2½ hours, at John Morrison's Ochi's Motel (6:30 pm & 9:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] some of UCBT's funniest improv & sketch comedy performers at an all-you-can-watch revue: UCBT's I'm Cool Showcase (8:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] Reggie Watts (genius comedic improv beatboxer, winner of 2007 Andy Kaufman award), Leo Allen (Comedy Central; long-time writer for Saturday Night Live), Bryan Tucker (writer for Saturday Night Live, Mad TV, Comedy Central), sharp comedy duo Team Submarine, and more at Liam McEneaney's free Tell Your Friends (8:00ish pm),
sharp sketch comedy duos Matt McCarthy & Katina Corrao and Laura Buchholz & Christina Casa in the double-bill The Matt & Katina Show and The Real Housewives of Altoona (9:30 pm),
[TOP PICK] and a free weekly show featuring some of the finest comics in the country—who tonight include TV & movie star Janeane Garofalo (and if there's anyone worth braving the snow for...), Andrea Rosen (fresh, razor-sharp stand-up; VH1, Comedy Central, Variety SHAC), Sailor Man (unforgettable troupe performing hilarious live-action cartoon live on stage; a smash hit at last year's FringeNYC), and possibly some happy surprises—hosted by the wonderful Leo Allen (Saturday Night Live, Comedy Central) at Whiplash (11:00 pm).
For details, please click here.
HyReviews.com's Videos of the Month:
The Brilliant & Thoroughly Loveable Jack McBrayer Proves He's Not Bobby Jindal
SNL Flashback Before Late Night De Niro Interview
Conan O'Brien Interview Before Debut
Jay Leno Tells Jimmy the "Talk Show" is Now Really a Comedy Show, with Guests
Jimmy Gets Last-Minute Advice from Lorne Michaels
Conan O'Brien is moving up to NBC's Tonight Show, and so March 3rd, 2009 was the debut of his replacement: Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. Taking over from a comedy genius like Conan is daunting—but the same was true when Conan replaced David Letterman back on September 13, 1993. There were some bumps then, but Conan ultimately more than rose to the occasion; and here's hoping Jimmy does too. His writing staff includes some brilliant comics, including rising star Anthony Jeselnik; and behind the awkwardness, Jimmy is a powerful talent and quick learner. Tune in to watch him grow and, over time, make his own special mark as a Late Night host.
Lottery-style open mic for stand-up comics trying out material,
with 4½ minutes per performer...in return for a $5 contribution to the weekly prize kitty.
(In addition, Ochi's 1-item food or drink minimum applies to everyone.)
A breathtaking 25 comics perform in this 2½ hour show; producer
John Morrison (above) has described it as "comedy on crack."
If you're seeking consistent laughs, this might not be the best way to spend
your evening. But if you're patient and adventurous, it's a potentially wild ride.
And if you're a performer looking for some stage time, it's a nice opportunity.
Plus if you stick around till the show's end to support your fellow comics,
you have a chance at winning the cash from the kitty, along with smaller prizes.
There are two shows, at 6:30 and 9:00 pm (with entirely different sets of comics).
Ochi's Motel is hosted at 6:30 by Sean Donnelly and Blaine Perry:
...and at 9:00 pm by Aalap Patel and Matteson Perry:
To be entered into the weekly random drawing for performers,
please send email to ochismotel@gmail.com.
6:30 pm & 9:00 pm, Ochi's Lounge at Comix, 353 West 14th Street (between 8th & 9th Avenues)
no cover, 1 drink or food item minimum (e.g., draft beer for $4-$5)
Violet Krumbein, Gavin Speiller, and Glennis McMurray & Eliza Skinner of I Eat Pandas
Some of the most skilled solo sketch performers sketch and improvisors
who perform regularly at UCBT go on stage tonight to show off their stuff
and entice you to come see their full productions.
The scheduled talent includes
I Eat Pandas, Gavin Speiller, Gil Ozeri, Violet Krumbein,
Katie Schorr, Nate Lang, Katie Schorr, and Nick Ross.
For more info on any of these performers, please click here and then
use the Google box to search for pages on this site describing their UCBT shows.
8:00 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $5
Leo Allen and Reggie Watts...
...and Bryan Tucker, Liam McEneaney, and Team Submarine
This free weekly comedy show is produced by Liam McEneaney
(VH1's Best Week Ever, Comedy Central's Premium Blend,
former writer for Standup Nation with Greg Giraldo).
Tonight's host is Team Submarine, i.e., hilarious comedy duo Nate Fernald & Steve O'Brien, who were one of the highlights of SketchFest NYC 08; these guys perform very smartly written dialogues, delivered with a crisp timing and comfortable camaraderie that will remind you of such classic teams as Abbott & Costello...and will have you on the floor with laughter.
And tonight's wonderful guests include
Reggie Watts (musical improv comedy genius; winner of 2007 Andy Kaufman Award; cast member of the new Electric Company; scary talented vocalist, beatboxer, and musician whose unique skills will likely amaze you; to learn more, please visit ReggieWatts.com; for video samples of what Reggie does, please click here and here and here; and keep an eye out Reggie's upcoming new album),
Leo Allen (one of the most sharp, honest, and likeable stand-ups working in NYC; writer for Saturday Night Live from 2002 through 2005; performed two Comedy Central Presents 1/2-hour specials (one by himself and one with his writing partner Eric Slovin); done stand-up on Late Night with Conan O'Brien.; acted on Ed and Sex and the City; host of NYC weekly live comedy show Whiplash),
Bryan Tucker (writer for Saturday Night Live 2005-2008; also wrote for Chappelle's Show, Mad TV, The Chris Rock Show, Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn; performed on Comedy Central's Premium Blend; for a stand-up video sample, please click here),
and musical band The Foods.
8:00ish pm at Lolita Bar, 226 Broome Street (between Allen and Orchard Streets); free
Nearest subway stops are Delancey Street via the F or Delancey-Essex via the J/M/Z
Matt McCarthy & Katina Corrao of The Matt & Katina Show
The Matt & Katina Show and The Real Housewives of Altoona
Two fun comedy shows for a mere five bucks.
First up is The Matt & Katina Show, consisting of sketch comedy duo Matt McCarthy & Katina Corrao. Matt's a razor-sharp stand-up who's performed on Comedy Central's Live at Gotham and is the Verizon FIOS guy on national TV commercials; and Katina's performed on Comedy Central and in HBO's Daddy—for video samples, please click here and here.
The double-bill then continues with The Real Housewives of Altoona, which describes itself as follows: "Welcome to Altoona Wisconsin, where less is definitely more! Come see everything that Altoona has to offer, including pie, purity balls, and our own resident artiste, which is plenty if you have the right attitude, so shut up. Our motto: Altoona: A place to grow until you can't grow anymore." Written by & starring Laura Buchholz & Christina Casa (the duo who previously created the UCBT show Jen & Angie). Directed by Pat Baer.
9:30 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $5
Leo Allen and Janeane Garofalo...
...and Andrea Rosen and Sailor Man
Whiplash with Leo Allen: The Finest in Stand-Up Comedy, Free
Leo Allen is one of the most sharp, honest, and likeable stand-ups working in NYC. Leo was a writer for Saturday Night Live from 2002 through 2005. He's also performed two Comedy Central Presents 1/2-hour specials (one by himself and one with his writing partner Eric Slovin); done stand-up on Late Night with Conan O'Brien.; and acted on Ed and Sex and the City. Leo has now taken over the Monday-at-11:00 pm UCBT spot made super-special by Aziz Ansari's Crash Test and Jeremy Levenbach's Cavalcade! (in fact, Whiplash is produced by Jeremy).
Tonight's thoroughly wonderful guests include
Janeane Garofalo (quite simply, one of the most hilarious and beloved performers alive
—no matter how much she gripes or pretends otherwise... Most recently, Janeane was co-host of The Majority Report on Air America Radio and co-star of the FOX's hit series 24. Sample quote: "I guess I just prefer to see the dark side of things. The glass is always half empty. And cracked. And I just cut my lip on it. And chipped a tooth." For two decades of impressive credits, please click here),
Andrea Rosen (stellar stand-up who's appeared on VH1 and Comedy Central, is a member of comedy group Variety SHAC, and has performed in ads for the New York Lottery, Fig Newtons, Staples, and Hershey's),
Sailor Man (hilarious troupe that creates breathtaking cartoon action live on stage; for my review of their smash hit show at the 2008 FringeNYC, please click here),
and possibly a surprise guest or two.
If you love comedy, make a habit of attending this stellar free weekly extravaganza.
11:00 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); free
NYC Comedy Picks for Tuesday 3/3/09
Beatbox master Reggie Watts and comedy superstar Janeane Garofalo celebrate the 200th edition of Sweet
Tonight's recommendations for the best in New York City comedy
(in chronological order, with top picks noted and shows over $10 marked with $) include:
the perfect show for short attention spans—open mic stand-up with 4½ minutes per set
and 25 comics crammed into 2½ hours—at John Morrison's Broadway Motel (6:00 pm),
comedians getting rid of their stuff by telling tales about the items and then selling to the highest bidder—with tonight's comics including Myka Fox, Shane Webb, George Gordon, and Michael Lawrence—at the way fun Auction! (7:30 pm),
comics editor Jeff Newelt, and comics artists Simon Fraser and Joan Reilly, joining in on a lively & hilarious discussion about four-color pop culture at Comic Book Club (8:00 pm),
three full hours of improv for only five bucks—tonight featuring UCBT house troupes
DeCoster, The Law Firm, Ragnaröck, Bastian, and The F*cking Kennedys—at Harold Night (8:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] a stellar—and free!—new Tuesday night comedy show, hosted by brilliant stand-ups Jessi Klein (Comedy Central, VH1, NBC, CNN, Adult Swim) and Pete Holmes (Comedy Central, VH1's Best Week Ever, The New Yorker), with tonight's guests including Christian Finnegan (Comedy Central, VH1, MSNBC), Chelsea Peretti (Comedy Central, Variety Shac), and Hannibal Buress (Comedy Central, Craig Ferguson) at Punch Up Your Life (8:30 pm),
[TOP PICK] and a blow-out celebration of the 200th edition of one of the very best comedy shows in NYC—with TV & movie star Janeane Garofalo (currently an FBI agent on FOX's 24), genius improv beatboxer Reggie Watts (winner of 2007 Andy Kaufman award), Adult Swim star Jon Glaser (long-time writer/performer for Conan O'Brien), acclaimed movie actor & director Frank Whaley (Pulp Fiction, Swimming with Sharks), and more—at the wonderful Seth Herzog's Sweet (9:00 pm).
Lottery-style open mic for stand-up comics trying out material,
with 4½ minutes per performer...in return for a $5 contribution to the weekly prize kitty.
(In addition, Broadway's one-item food or drink minimum applies to everyone.)
A breathtaking 25 comics perform in this 2½ hour show; producer
John Morrison (above) has described it as "comedy on crack."
If you're seeking consistent laughs, this might not be the best way to spend
your evening. But if you're patient and adventurous, it's a potentially wild ride.
And if you're a performer looking for some stage time, it's a nice opportunity.
Plus if you stick around till the show's end to support your fellow comics,
you have a chance at winning the cash from the kitty, along with smaller prizes.
Broadway Motel is hosted by Cory Jarvis and Doug Adler.
To be entered into the weekly random drawing for performers,
please send email to motelme@gmail.com.
6:00 pm at Broadway Comedy Club, 318 West 53rd Street (between 8th & 9th Avenues);
$5 cover plus one-item food or drink minimum
This fun show hosted by Chris Sifflet and Kevin Tor "acts as an alternative to the impersonality of eBay and the seriousness of The Antiques Road Show. At Auction!, comedians bring hilarious stories along with their objects, and you bring riot gear and a few bucks for the bid wars that follow."
Expect to be given 25 cents for your kick-off bid. Most items sell for under $5; and they can range from hockey posters to drug paraphernalia.
Tonight's comedic participants include Myka Fox, Shane Webb, George Gordon, and Michael Lawrence.
7:30 pm at Ochi's Lounge at Comix, 353 West 14th Street (between 8th & 9th Avenues);
no cover, 1 drink or food item minimum (e.g., draft beer for $4-$5)
Hosted by Alex Zalben, Justin Tyler and Pete LePage,
who enjoy discussing comic books while getting laughs.
Tonight's guests are Jeff Newelt (comics editor of HEEB Magazine and SMITH Magazine), Simon Fraser (comics artist for such 2000AD titles as Dante and Judge Dredd), and Joan Reilly (comics artist for such writers as Harvey Pekar).
To get a feel for the smart, playful vibe of Comic Book Club, please check out its podcasts—
that is, audio recordings of previous shows in their entirety—by clicking here.
(And for my two current faves, a delightful visit from Kevin "Batman" Conroy and a hilarious evening with Daily Show writer Eliot Kalan, please click here and here.)
Also be sure to watch a Penguin vs. Batman debate that uncannily predicted John McCain's campaign strategy by clicking here.
8:00 pm at The Peoples Improv Theater, 154 West 29th Street (off 7th Avenue); tickets are $5
The Harold is longform improv, pioneered by Del Close.
Tonight, five improv troupes—
DeCoster, The Law Firm, Ragnaröck, Bastian, and The F*cking Kennedys—
each give it a go for 30 minutes, with
short breaks in between, for a total of 3 hours.
Some of the groups are great; some are less so. And this show
is designed more for students of improv than the general public.
But if you're interested, and patient, a mere $5 will buy you
a full evening's education...and periodic solid laughs.
8:00-11:00 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $5
Brilliantly funny hosts Pete Holmes and Jessi Klein...
...and Hannibal Buress, Chelsea Peretti, and Christian Finnegan
This new, free weekly stand-up show is a wonderful addition to NYC Tuesday night comedy. Its hosts are two of the finest comics in the country:
Jessi Klein (deliciously honest, brilliant, hilarious stand-up star; Rolling Stones' comedy
"Hot List;" Comedy Central's Premium Blend and Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn;
VH1's Best Week Ever; NBC's The Today Show; CNN; The Showbiz Show with David Spade;
voice of Lucy on Adult Swim's Lucy the Daughter of the Devil;
for a video stand-up sample about which celebrity would save
the most Jews, and on email etiquette, please click here and here) and
Pete Holmes (one of the quickest & sharpest minds in comedy; VH1's Best Week Ever, Comedy Central's Premium Blend and Motherload; writer for CollegeHumor.com;
cartoonist for mags ranging from The New Yorker to Cosmo Girl;
host of UCBT's monthly open mic stand-up show Gutbucket;
for a hilarious range of videos, please click here).
Tonight's superb guests include
Christian Finnegan (Comedy Central Presents half-hour special; commentator on MNBC's Countdown with Keith Oberman and VH1's Best Week Ever; Chappelle's Show, The Today Show, host of TVLand's Game Time, former staff writer for Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn; comedy CD Two For Flinching; for stand-up videos on how to get rid of a boring guy and what your movie choices say about you, please click here and here),
Chelsea Peretti (exceptionally fresh, smart stand-up comic; Comedy Central's Live at Gotham; member of superb comedy troupe Variety Shac; writer for Village Voice, Details, Playgirl, Jest,
blackpeopleloveus.com, and Rejection Line: 212/479-7990), and
Hannibal Buress (Comedy Central's Live at Gotham, Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson; upcoming concert film The Awkward Kings of Comedy).
8:30 pm at Housing Works’ Bookstore Café, 126 Crosby Street (bet. Prince & Houston); free
Janeane Garofalo and Reggie Watts...
...movie actor/writer/director Frank Whaley...
...and Seth Herzog and Jon Glaser
Hosted by the razor-sharp, dynamic, and hilarious Seth Herzog (VH1's Best Week Ever).
Seth is one of the finest hosts around—and this is one of the best comedy shows in NYC.
Tonight's wonderful guests include
Janeane Garofalo (quite simply, one of the most hilarious and beloved performers alive
—no matter how much she gripes or pretends otherwise... Most recently, Janeane was co-host of The Majority Report on Air America Radio and co-star of the FOX's hit series 24. Sample quote: "I guess I just prefer to see the dark side of things. The glass is always half empty. And cracked. And I just cut my lip on it. And chipped a tooth." For two decades of impressive credits, please click here),
Reggie Watts (musical improv comedy genius; winner of 2007 Andy Kaufman Award; cast member of the new Electric Company; scary talented vocalist, beatboxer, and musician whose unique skills will likely amaze you; to learn more, please visit ReggieWatts.com; for video samples of what Reggie does, please click here and here and here; and keep an eye out Reggie's upcoming new album),
Jon Glaser (long-time writer & sketch performer for Late Night with Conan O'Brien;
writer/performer for ESPN's Cheap Seats; frequent performer on Human Giant;
star of new Adult Swim show Delocated; voiceover actor for such animated series as
David Cross' Freak Show, and Adult Swim's Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Stroker & Hoop
(as Stroker), and, with Eugene Mirman, Lucy, the Daughter of the Devil (playing Jesus);
writer/star of Comedy Central's online show Tiny Hands; writer/filmmaker
partner with stellar VO actor/comic Jon Benjamin in Midnight Pajama Jam;
and—with Todd Barry, Jon Benjamin, James McNew, and Tom Shillue—
member of NYC comedic band A Matter of Trust),
Frank Whaley (acclaimed actor who's performed in scores of feature films [The Doors, JFK, Hoffa, Swimming with Sharks, Pulp Fiction] and TV shows [Law & Order, Boston Legal, House]; writer/director of indie feature film New York City Serenade starring Freddie Prinz Jr.),
and more.
Please note tonight's extra-special show is $10 rather than the usual $5. Doors open at 8:15 pm.
9:00 pm at The Slipper Room, 167 Orchard Street (corner of Stanton Street); tickets are $10
NYC Comedy Picks for Wednesday 3/4/09
Scott Adsit (Adsit & Gausas), the amusingly oddball Found Footage Festival, and Chris Gethard (Magic Box of Stories)
Tonight's recommendations for the best in New York City comedy
(in chronological order, with top picks noted and shows over $10 marked with $) include:
five free hours of improvisation in The PIT's Super Free Wednesday (7:00 pm-midnight),
[TOP PICK] one of the most razor-sharp and uproariously funny storytellers in the country performing a one-man show that should not be missed: Chris Gethard's Magic Box of Stories (8:00 pm),
[$] unintentionally hilarious amateur videos via the Found Footage Festival (8:00 pm),
NYC stand-ups John Morrison, Sean Crespo, Raquel D’Apice, Mara Herron, Adrianne Iapalucci, and Jason Saenz at the free Shrink (8:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] an hour-long play made up on the spot by razor-sharp, passionate improvisors Scott Adsit (30 Rock, Moral Orel) and Christina Gausas (Conan O'Brien, The Colbert Report) at Adsit & Gausas (9:30 pm),
[$] a former regular on Comedy Central's Tough Crowd and on Howard Stern, Nick DiPaolo at Carolines (10:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] and a free, laid-back, and occasionally magical variety show where virtually anything can happen on a School Night (11:00).
Kurt Braunohler and Pat Shay
The PIT's Super Free Wednesday
For four hours every Wednesday, The PIT provides free shows featuring its improv house troupes. The Wilhelm and Tomahawk perform at 7:00 pm; Big Black Car and Mrs. Esterhouse go on at 8:00 pm; The Baldwins and Punch show their stuff at 9:00; and Halfbear and The Faculty (consisting of The PIT's superb improv instructors, including such talents as Ali Farahnakian, Kurt Braunohler, Ptolemy Slocum, Pat Shay, Kevin Scott, Chris Grace, and Rebekka Johnson) round out the evening at 10:00.
If you then feel sufficiently inspired, you can participate in the free show Improdome at 11:00 pm, which allows audience members to get on stage and improvise with each other in trios for 5-7 minute sets.
7:00 pm-midnight at The Peoples Improv Theater, 154 West 29th Street (off 7th Avenue); free
Brilliant comedic storyteller Chris Gethard will shower us tonight with his magically hilarious tales
Chris Gethard's Magic Box of Stories
Chris Gethard is one of the most talented and brilliant storytellers and improvisors in New York. Chris can be seen every Friday night as a member of ace improv group The Stepfathers, and every month as a member of the razor-sharp storytelling show the The Nights of Our Lives. Chris is also the author of the book Weird New York.
And tonight Chris lets his storytelling prowess fully shine as he asks audience members to pick story titles out of a box filled with his wondrous, unforgettable, and jaw-droppingly funny tales. Since Chris has many more tales in the box than can be told during this 90-minute slot, every performance is fresh and unique.
Come catch this rising star demonstrate why he should be famous in a show that gets my highest recommendation.
8:00 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $5
Just two of the many memorable images from the FFF
Joe Pickett and Nick Prueher have spent two years scouring thrift stores
and garage sales around the country for odd, funny, and startling videos.
Based on the stills above, the time was well-spent.
For video samplers, please click here and here.
This comedy club show has a $20 cover plus two-item food or drink minimum (with tax & tip, figure another $13 or up).
To learn more and/or to order, please click here.
8:00 pm at Comix, 353 West 14th Street (between 8th & 9th Avenues);
$20 ticket plus two-item food or drink minimum
This free weekly show tonight features John Morrison, Sean Crespo, Raquel D’Apice, Mara Herron, Adrianne Iapalucci, and Jason Saenz.
8:00 pm at Otto's Shrunken Head, 538 East 14th Street (between Avenues A and B); free
Christina Gausas and Scott Adsit
Adsit & Gausas: Improvised One-Hour Play
A dynamo improv duo creates a one-act play on the spot "that can be hilarious and physical and heart-breaking and still—come and see for yourself."
The superb performers are
Scott Adsit (cast member of 30 Rock, and co-director & cast member of Adult Swim's brilliant & Emmy-winning Moral Orel) and
Christina Gausas (sharp, passionate, standout improvisor/actress; Late Night with Conan O'Brien, The Colbert Report, The Al Franken Show, Let's Have a Ball, Dorff & Gausas).
Where else are you going to see a razor-sharp play for just five bucks?
9:30 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $5
Nick DiPaolo has done stand-up on Late Show with David Letterman, Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and Late Night with Conan O'Brien; performed three of his own Comedy Central Presents half-hour specials; was a regular on Comedy Central's Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn and Shorties Watchin' Shorties; is a frequent guest on The Howard Stern Show and the Opie and Anthony radio show; hosted his own radio program on NYC's 92.3 Free FM; and creates periodic Web-based free audio shows for Blog Talk Radio. Nick has also acted on such TV shows as HBO's The Sopranos and Lucky Louie, and was nominated twice for an Emmy award for his writing on The Chris Rock Show.
This comedy club show has a $22.25 cover plus two-drink minimum (with tax & tip, figure another $13 or up).
To order tickets, please click here.
10:00 pm at Carolines, 1626 Broadway (between 49th and 50th Streets);
$22.25 ticket plus two-drink minimum
Justin Purnell
Host Justin Purnell provides a mix of guests who perform stand-up, improv, sketch,
and occasionally acts that defy categorization. The level of talent can vary wildly—
but for some (like me), that's part of the laid-back fun.
Come support the experimentation, and periodic magical surprises,
that this uniquely organic rollercoaster of a show makes possible.
Please note that while it costs nothing to get in, if you have a good time (which is likely), you should drop a dollar or two into the contribution bucket on your way out. It's the only way this beloved show—which has been running for five years—can stay alive as a vibrant showcase.
11:00 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); free
NYC Comedy Picks for Thursday 3/5/09
Stuckey & Murray do their thing at tonight's Stripped Stories
Tonight's recommendations for the best in New York City comedy
(in chronological order, with top picks noted and shows over $10 marked with $) include:
[TOP PICK] [$] one of the sharpest and funniest performers in comedy history headling at NYU: Zach Galifianakis (8:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] fearless and hilarious sketch comedy performer Alicia Levy debuting her new one-woman show Red Carpet Ride (8:00 pm),
Dominic Dierkes (member of star comedy troupe Derrick) performing an inventive & fun one-man sketch show, and young comedy duo Ashley Ann Hale & Jessica Stickles doing a difficult-to-describe sketch show, in the double-bill Adventure River and Even Ladies Shit the Bed (8:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] Kevin Allison (legendary MTV sketch show The State), Randi Newton (The Sopranos, Nip/Tuck), and star comedic singer/songwriters Stuckey & Murray (Discovery Channel, E!, VH1, Fuse) as guests on the best sexy storytelling comedy show in NYC: Margot Leitman's & Giulia Rozzi's Stripped Stories (9:30),
[$] a provocative comedy star who's written for Richard Pryor, Red Foxx, and Saturday Night Live, and performed on Chappelle's Show and David Letterman, headlining at Carolines through Sunday: Paul Mooney (10:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] and two superb improv troupes, The Stepfathers and The Scam, competing for audience laughs & votes at the raucous Cage Match (11:00 pm).
Zach Galifianakis: Live on Stage
Zach Galifianakis is a flat-out comedy genius, and one of the giants of the biz. He's also one of my all-time favorite performers.
Zach's numerous credits include Late Show with David Letterman, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, ABC's Jimmy Kimmel; film & tour Comedians of Comedy; Comedy Central's Dog Bites Man, Reno 911!, and The Sarah Silverman Program; Adult Swim's Tim and Eric Awesome Show and Tom Goes to the Mayor; FOX's Boston Common and Tru Calling; feature films include Out Cold and What Happens in Vegas..., and the upcoming G-Force, Little Fish, Strange Pond, and Hangover. For video samples, please click here.
Tonight's headliner show at NYU is pricey at $40...but definitely worth it.
8:00 pm at NYU's Skirball Center for the Performing Arts (566 LaGuardia Place); tickets are $40
Alicia Levy is a member of world-class sketch troupe Drop Six, which is famed for its wonderful mix of physical comedy and music. Alicia also performed the memorable one-woman show Totally Worth It last year, in which she played such characters as a painfully clumsy stripper, an insanely cautious expert on child safety, and a splendorous fairy contemplating a wing reduction.
Tonight Alicia debuts a brand new one-woman show—and it's undoubtedly worth catching.
8:00 pm at The Peoples Improv Theater, 154 West 29th Street (off 7th Avenue); tickets are $8
Dominic Dierkes, and an unusual subject for a sketch show
Dominic Dierkes: Adventure River and Even Ladies Shit the Bed
Two fun comedy shows for a mere five bucks.
The evening kicks off with Dominic Dierkes, one of the three quick-witted and razor-sharp members of star improv/sketch troupe Derrick. (For a sample of the group's wildly popular YouTube videos, please click here and here and here; and to see the trailer for their feature film Mystery Team, which recently premiered at Sundance, please click here.) Tonight Dominic will performing a series of inventive solo comedy sketches about such odd characters as an interactive book author doing a reading, an MTV Real World editor, and a lip syncher. Directed by Dom's brilliant Derrick teammate DC Pierson. Expect fun.
The double-bill then continues with a show that describes itself as follows: "Remember the first time you shit the bed? Remember the 27th time? Well, no matter who you are, you've definitely shit the bed—at least 27 times. And as Beyonce sings quoting Eleanor Roosevelt quoting Aristotle's wife quoting a lady bacterium at the birth of the world, 'Even ladies shit the bed.' But don't look away in shame or anger; look toward the shit with a smile and wonder. Just get in there and get it all over you. Like on your hands. All over your face. Inside your pores. Come be moved by ladies finding out how to be themselves in this crazy-messed-up world called Earth through the power of laughter, friendship, video games, and battery acid." Written by and starring Ashley Ann Hale and Jessica Stickles. Directed by Shannon O'Neill.
8:00 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $5
Margot & Giulia are two fun-lovin' gals...who are world-class storytellers
Sexual storytelling with a comedic slant.
Tonight's theme is "What Am I Doing Here?"
Expect shocking and highly entertaining yarns from stellar guests
Kevin Allison (member of legendary MTV sketch comedy show The State; HBO's Flight of the Conchords, VH1's Best Week Ever, Comedy Central's Reno 911; one-man show F*** Up),
Stuckey & Murray (singing duo who write and perform hilarious songs, and who have appeared on The Discovery Channel, E!, VH1, Fuse, The College Sports Network, and done two comedy music series for NBC Digital Media and Heavy.com; also create wildly popular comedy videos for YouTube, Funnyordie.com, and their own Web site), and
Randi
Newton (The Sopranos, Nip/Tuck).
Plus there'll be hilarious tales from the two sensual hosts, Giulia Rozzi (MTV, VH1's Best Night Ever podcasts) and Margot Leitman (Late Night With Conan O'Brien, VH1, Spike TV); and "audience interviews, sex games, and hookups...hopefully."
Come to laugh, to get turned on, and to make choices you'll regret in the morning.
This is a wonderful show, and highly recommended.
9:30 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $5
Paul Mooney: Headlining at Carolines
Fire-tongued comedy star Paul Mooney will be performing tonight through Sunday at Carolines. His numerous credits include writing for Richard Pryor, Saturday Night Live, and In Living Color, and performing on Late Show with David Letterman and Chappelle's Show. For video samples, please click here and here.
This New York comedy club show has a $31 cover plus two-drink minimum (with tax & tip, figure another $13 or up).
To order tickets, please click here.
10:00 pm at Carolines, 1626 Broadway (between 49th and 50th Streets);
$31 ticket plus two-drink minimum
vs.
Cage Match: The Scam vs. The Stepfathers
This delightful show pits two improv teams against each other while creating the
atmosphere of a professional wrestling arena—and providing such side-shows
as a bout to the death between guys costumed as an alcoholic wolf and TV's Alf.
(For a spirited weekly report on the wrestling aspect of Cage Match, please click here.)
Tonight's defending champion is new Harold team The Scam, which includes powerhouse rising star Jeff Hiller (Conan O'Brien, MTV's Boiling Points, FUSE's The PA, VH1, and the comedic horror musicals Silence! and The Children). The other fine members are Eddie Dunn (sketch troupe Rogue Elephant), Birch Harms (improv troupe Creep), Kevin Hines (half of improv/sketch duo The Brothers Hines), Porter Mason (nationally syndicated cartoonist of strip Bassist Wanted), Risa Sang-urai (Conan O'Brien, VH1), Betsy Stover (long-time and esteemed UCBT improv performer & instructor), and Erik Tanouye (Comedy Central).
There will be no easy victory tonight, however, as the contender is The Stepfathers, consisting of some of the sharpest & funniest improv comics in the country: Michael Delaney, Chris Gethard, Will Hines, Bobby Moynihan, Shannon O'Neill, Silvija Ozols, Andy Secunda, and Zach Woods.
Just to give you a feel for the talent involved, Delaney and Secunda are members of legendary improv troupe The Swarm; Gethard is a storytelling genius; and Moynihan (who might not be participating tonight) since 2008 is a stellar cast member of Saturday Night Live.
There's no telling what'll happen...which is one of the great pleasures of this extravaganza.
11:00 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $5
NYC Comedy Picks for Friday 3/6/09
I know, it's not a comedy; but I'm hoping this epic based on Alan
Moore's absolutely brilliant comic book series turns out to be the best movie
any of us have seen for a long time.
(Plus my favorite line of the graphic novel involves the word "joking"....)
As for NYC's comedy heroes:
Super-storyteller Charlie Sanders (Minnesota Muslim), and super-beatboxer Chris "Shockwave" Sullivan (The BEATdown)
Tonight's recommendations for the best in New York City comedy
(in chronological order, with top picks noted and shows over $10 marked with $) include:
[TOP PICK] rising star Charlie Sanders performing one of the most vibrant and hilarious autobiographical shows you'll ever see, plus sketch comedy duo Nick Kocher & Brian McElhaney performing a science fiction farce, in the double-bill Minnesota Muslim and The Infinity Prison (8:00 pm),
stand-ups at a gay-themed comedy show hosted by Jenny Rubin: The Back Room (9:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] some of the finest improv in NYC from the comedy genius members of The Stepfathers (9:30 pm),
singing improvisors who use an interview with an audience member to craft The Made-Up Musical (10:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] a comedic freestyle rap contest, tonight including Donald Glover, Peter Gwinn, Jim Santangeli, Shannon O'Neill, and Rory Panagotopulos, hosted by genius comedic musical hosts Chris "Shockwave" Sullivan (Freestyle Love Supreme) and Eliza Skinner (I Eat Pandas), at The BEATdown (11:00 pm),
and a free opportunity for you to perform sketch on the UCBT stage at Liquid Courage (12:20ish am).
Ace storyteller Charlie Sanders, and Nick Kocher & Brian McElhaney of BriTANicK
Charlie Sanders: Minnesota Muslim and BriTANick: The Infinity Prison
A phenomenal storytelling event, and two-man sketch comedy, for a mere 10 bucks.
Charlie Sanders is an extraordinarily dynamic and committed comic who's performed numerous sketch comedy routines on Late Night with Conan O'Brien, and is a star member of world-class improv troupes Reuben Williams, Buffoons, and C, C + C Improv Factory (which won the 2008 Cage Match Improv Championship). Tonight, however, Charlie shows another side of his vast talents by telling jaw-dropping—and entirely true—tales of his experiences growing up white in midwestern suburbia...as a Muslim.
This is one of the most hilarious and brilliantly performed one-man shows you'll ever see—with definite theatrical potential—and has my highest recommendation. Don't miss rising star Charlie Sanders demonstrate what he can do when running on all gears.
The fun then continues with BriTANicK, which is sketch/improv duo Brian McElhaney and Nick Kocher. Tonight's all-new sketch show is "a science fiction farce that explores the intricacies of time travel, narcotics, René Barjavel's Grandfather Paradox, and friendship." To get a feel for these young performers, check out their videos about post-sex desires and drug cravings by clicking here and here.
8:00 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $10
Jenny Rubin, Dave Rubin, Paul Case, and Shawn Hollenbach
Gay-themed comedy (with both gay & straight comics),
hosted by the charming Jenny Rubin (WE TV’s Cinematherapy and The Gutter).
Tonight's talented stand-ups comics include
Back Room co-producer Paul Case (MTV, D-Listed Radio, here! TV's Bent),
Back Room co-producer Shawn Hollenbach (here! TV's Busted), and
Back Room co-producer Dave Rubin (here! TV's Dave Rubin Project and Hot Gay Comics).
9:00 pm at Ochi's Lounge at Comix, 353 West 14th Street (between 8th & 9th Avenues);
no cover, 1 drink or food item minimum (e.g., draft beer for $4-$5)
Back: Zach Woods, Bobby Moynihan, Andy Secunda, Michael Delaney, and Shannon O'Neil
Front: Chris Gethard, Silvija Ozols, and Will Hines
Some of the smartest & finest improv comics in NYC—Michael Delaney,
Chris Gethard, Will Hines, Bobby Moynihan, Shannon O'Neill, Silvija Ozols,
Andy Secunda, and Zach Woods—make up a series of scenes from a one-word audience suggestion.
Just to give you a feel for the talent involved, Delaney and Secunda are members of legendary improv troupe The Swarm; Gethard is a storytelling genius; and Moynihan (who still comes by on Fridays when he can steal the time) since 2008 is a stellar cast member of Saturday Night Live.
With art and grace, these quick-witted comedy stars will make you laugh—a lot.
9:30 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $10
Veteran improvisor John O'Donnell is accompanied
by a rotating cast that might include such superb talents as
Tara Copeland, Scott Glover, Alex Marino, Louis Kornfeld,
Jessica Allen, Robin Rothman, and Megan Gray
—and with Frank Spitznagel on piano—
turn an interview with an audience member
into a musical they make up on the spot.
10:00 pm at The Magnet Theatre, 254 West 29th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $7
This lively show is a comedic freestyle rap competition.
(Think 8 Mile, only way funnier.)
It's hosted by two comedic musical geniuses:
Shockwave (Chris Sullivan, cast member of PBS' The Electric Company
and amazing human beatbox of Freestyle Love Supreme;
The Age wrote he "uses his mouth like a sound effects program that
no computer could possibly match for depth of stored data or
instantaneous retrieval." And Seth Herzog wrote, "One of the most entertaining
sound effect/comedic artists you'll ever see. He stole the show at the
closing night of Mo Pitkins," referring to a 3-hour blowout that Seth hosted
and that featured such artists as Moby!), and
Eliza Skinner (member of the genius improv musical groups I Eat Pandas
and Baby Wants Candy; drummer and singer in comedic alt band Stickerbook;
MTV's Damage Control).
Tonight's contestants are Donald Glover, Peter Gwinn, Jim Santangeli, Shannon O'Neill, Rory Panagotopulos...and a volunteer from the audience!
11:00 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $5
The ultimate in audience participation: any group can submit a sketch and perform it!
If all you want is to be entertained, this show probably isn't a good choice.
But if you'd like to act on the UCBT stage, and/or have your sketch writing judged by an exceptionally savvy audience, this is a golden opportunity.
Sign-up begins at 10:30 pm and runs till 11:45 pm; sketches will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's wise to arrive early. For a complete list of the rules, please click here.
12:20ish am at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); free
NYC Comedy Picks for Saturday 3/7/09
Abbi Crutchfield (Bachelorette Roast), Mary Theresa Archbold (Drop Six), and Judah Friedlander (Eastville)
Tonight's recommendations for the best in New York City comedy
(in chronological order, with top picks noted and shows over $10 marked with $) include:
[TOP PICK] four sharp storytellers—tonight consisting of Ophira Eisenberg (Comedy Central, VH1, Showtime), Zero Boy (MTV), Dina Pearlman (Sex & The City, Comedy Central), and Jim O'Grady (The New York Times, Moth GrandSlam Champion)—trying to mislead the audience at Andy Christie's The Liar Show (6:00 pm),
a bona fide pre-wedding celebration, with you invited, and stellar comedy guests Carolyn Castiglia, Katina Corrao, J-L Cauvin, Jiwon Li, Nick Cobb, Elon James White, and Dave Lester at Abbi Crutchfield's Bachelorette Roast (7:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] a world-class sketch troupe specializing in physical comedy and music: Drop Six (7:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] star improvisation from writers & performers at 30 Rock, The Colbert Report,
and The Daily Show who joyously declare Let's Have a Ball (7:30 pm),
an exciting new NYC show developed at Chicago's legendary iO theatre in which veteran
improvisors create a play on the spot based on audience suggestions: New Play (7:30 pm),
comics experiencing the rush of performing with no clothes on in The Naked Comedy Showcase (8:00 pm),
sharp NYC comics at a free stand-up comedy show hosted by star sketch/improv troupe Derrick in Queens' Long Island City: This Is New York (8:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] one of my all-time favorite improv troupes—which in 2008 broke the UCBT improv competition record for winning streaks with 17 triumphs in a row, and recently delivered a magnificent performance to capture the 2009 Cage Match Championship—the brilliant and daring members of Death by Roo Roo (9:00 pm),
organic & energetic improv by the four guys of 4 Track! (9:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] a monthly party celebrating Gossip Girl, the TV teen drama sensation of the year, hosted by
Sara Benincasa (MTV, Family Hour, star Sarah Palin impersonator), and including a small mob of NYC comics,
Emmy-winning writers, and other very smart fans having enthusiastic fun at the Gossip Girl Summit (9:30),
[$] hilarious star stand-up Judah Friedlander (cast member on smash hit sitcom 30 Rock; Jay Leno, HBO, VH1, MTV) and other sharp comics performing at the only comedy club in the East Village: Judah Friedlander and More at Eastville (10:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] improvised furious action from world-class troupe Reuben Williams (10:30 pm),
[TOP PICK] [$] Ted Greenberg (Emmy-winning David Letterman writer) performing a fun, quick-paced theatrical comedy show—complete with audience rides home!—at The Complete Performer (10:30 pm),
a dozen NYC comedic performers, including Mindy Raf, Carolyn Castiglia, Rob Lathan, Shawn Hollenbach, and show creators Ilana & Eliot Glazer performing highly unusual acts at High School Talent Show (midnight),
[$] and a provocative comedy star who's written for Richard Pryor, Red Foxx, and Saturday Night Live, and performed on Chappelle's Show and David Letterman, headlining at Carolines through Sunday: Paul Mooney (12:30 am).
Four funny people tell amazing stories. Three of the tales are absolutely true...but one of them is a pack of lies. The audience then asks questions to try and identify the fibber. Hosted by Andy Christie (The New York Times, 2007 Moth GrandSlam Champion, author of book I Wasn't Kidding).
Tonight's stellar yarn-spinners are
Ophira Eisenberg (sharp stand-up and brilliant storyteller; Comedy Central's Premium Blend, VH1's Best Week Ever, Showtime's Queer as Folk; The Guardian),
Zero Boy (MTV, The Comedy Explosion),
Dina Pearlman (Sex & The City, Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn), and
Jim O'Grady (The New York Times, Moth GrandSlam Champion).
The Liar Show was a smash hit at this August's Edinburgh Festival, and is recommended.
Tonight's show will almost certainly sell out. To reserve tickets, please call (212) 989-9319.
6:00 pm at Cornelia Street Cafe, 29 Cornelia Street (between West 4th Street and Bleecker);
tickets are $12, which includes one house drink
Abbi Crutchfield's Bachelorette Roast
Abbi Crutchfield is a delightful, energetic stand-up and character actress...and she's getting married. So tonight Abbi's having a combination bachelorette party and comedy roast—and you're invited.
The stellar comics participating are Carolyn Castiglia, Katina Corrao, J-L Cauvin, Jiwon Lee, Nick Cobb, Elon James White, and Dave Lester.
7:00 pm at Ochi's Lounge at Comix, 353 West 14th Street (between 8th & 9th Avenues)
no cover, 1 drink or food item minimum (e.g., draft beer for $4-$5)
Drop Six is a superb NYC-based sketch troupe that makes great use of physical comedy and music. The group consists of Mary Theresa Archbold (for my review of this star's funny & touching 2007 FringeNYC show Jazz Hand, please click here), Tim Girrbach, Jason Salmon, Rodney Umble, and director Larry Rosen. This group's honors include Best of the Fest selection by Second City at the 2006 Toronto Sketch Comedy Festival. And their Drop Six: Mr. Lucky show killed at last year's FringeNYC, placing in my top 15 of the festival (out of 188 wildly diverse & competitive productions). For a brief medley of memorable Drop Six moments, please click here.
7:00 pm at The Peoples Improv Theater, 154 West 29th Street (off 7th Avenue); tickets are $10
Becky Drysdale, Anthony King, Christina Gausas, and Tami Sagher
Some of the sharpest writers and performers in NYC get together for long-form improv fun.
Among the players often performing are Scott Adsit (cast member of 30 Rock, and co-director & cast member of Adult Swim's brilliant & Emmy-winning Moral Orel), Kay Cannon (writer for 30 Rock), Becky Drysdale (acclaimed one-woman show One Woman in Several Pieces, Web video series Time Traveling Lesbian), Christina Gausas (Late Night with Conan O'Brien, The Stepfathers, Dorff & Gausas), Anthony King (UCBT-NY Artistic Director, Reuben Williams, Gutenberg! The Musical), Laura Krafft (writer for The Colbert Report), Tami Sagher (writer for 30 Rock; writer and producer for Mad TV 2001-2006), and Dan Goor (Late Night with Conan O'Brien, The Daily Show).
7:30 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $10
New Play: Improvised Theatre in One or Two Acts
Chicago's legendary iO Theatre developed an improv form called Play in which comics took an audience suggestion and then created "a play of two acts or less" on the spot. Bringing this exciting comedic game to NYC are Chicago-trained improv veterans Peter Grosz (writer for The Colbert Report, member of acclaimed Chicago improv troupe 4 Square, star of over 100 Sonic fast-food commercials), Deb Downing, Ed Herbstman, Katie Caussin, Melanie Hoopes, Jonathan Karpinos, and Kelly Haran, with direction by Sandy Marshall.
According to the official description, "the ensemble writes a play while they are performing it, streamlining the cumbersome and often wasteful 'process' traditionally used to develop scripts. Eliminating rewrites, readings, rehearsals, and other distractions, the cast of New Play harnesses the power of live theatre with no preparation, opening (and closing) a brand new play each week.
"New Play doesn't rehash the stereotypes of well-known theatrical styles or authors for easy laughs. Instead, the cast explores original stories and characters every show, as if in the voice of some yet undiscovered playwright. The results range from poignant to hilarious, and occasionally both at the same time.
"The show may contain strobe lights, loud explosions, nudity, objectionable themes, and gunfire. Or it may not."
If you love both improv and theatre, how can you resist?
7:30 pm at The Magnet Theatre, 254 West 29th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $5
Andy Ofiesh, creator of The Naked Comedy Showcase
Oddly enough, this is just what it sounds like;
stand-up, sketch, and improv comics performing in the buff.
A reviewer from The Boston Globe observed, "The dynamic of nude comedian
and clothed audience added an extra dimension to self-deprecating material."
For a New York Magazine review, please click here.
8:00 pm at The Peoples Improv Theater, 154 West 29th Street (off 7th Avenue); tickets are $10
Donald Glover, DC Pierson, and Dominic Dierkes of Derrick
Derrick is three sharp and enormously appealing performers,
Dominic Dierkes, Donald Glover, and DC Pierson, who are sketch comedy
stars via their wildly popular YouTube videos—
for some samples, please click here and here and here.
The guys also completed a comedy feature film, which they
wrote, composed, and star in—and which recently premiered at Sundance!
(To view the trailer of Mystery Team, please click here.)
In this weekly free show in Queens' Long Island City, these impressively
multi-talented comics host a comedy showcase featuring NYC stand-ups
...and also themselves performing both stand-up and sketch.
8:00 pm at The Creek and The Cave, 10-93 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City, Queens; free
From Manhattan, take the #7 subway to the Vernon Boulevard-Jackson Avenue stop (one stop after Grand Central); exit on Jackson Avenue and walk one block north to 49th Avenue
Death by Roo Roo: Your F*cked Up Family
Arguably the gutsiest improv troupe in NYC, and unquestionably among the finest groups in improv history, the brilliant comics of Death by Roo Roo—Anthony Atamanuik, Liz Cackowski, Neil Casey, John Gemberling, Curtis Gwinn, Adam Pally, and Gavin Speiller—interview an audience member about family and then act out his or her life story via improvised scenes. These winners of the prestigious 2009 Cage Match Championship are always razor-sharp, sometimes scary, and usually hilarious.
9:00 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $10
Springboarding from a word suggested by the audience,
George Basil, Frank Campanella, Christian Capozzoli, and Matt Evans
perform organic & energetic long-form improv for about 40 minutes.
Basil is a stand-out, but they're all sharp, committed improvisors.
There's also a warm chemistry between the men, which is especially evident
if you arrive early to watch them getting ready on stage: They toss a ball
back and forth, and then toss each other back and forth...sending
a body message of "If you throw an improv concept at me, you can trust me
to not let it drop..." One of the Magnet's most popular shows.
9:00 pm at The Magnet Theatre, 254 West 29th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $5
The Ultimate Gossip Girl Summit
New York Magazine recently called the CW series Gossip Girl "The greatest teen drama of all time." Writers Jessica Pressler & Chris Rovzar explain: "Peopled by preternaturally attractive new stars, dressed in the latest clothes, steeped in simmering emotions, and smothered with a thick coat of money...Gossip Girl is the ultimate teen Frankendrama, with archetypal characters and classic story lines. But it’s also a thoroughly modern take on the genre (it’s a show about a blog, for Perez’s sake!), where teenagers are stalked by camera phones, the parents are as screwed up as the kids, and there are absolutely no consequences for anyone’s actions."
To celebrate the series, Sara Benincasa (recent instant star via her Sarah Palin vlogs; MTV's Total Request Live and Choose or Lose Campaign; Tub Talk with Sara B. on Nerve.com; host of weekly NYC live comedy show Family Hour) has put together tonight's extravaganza, which features "ace-meltingly awesome parody videos, critical analysis from your favorite bloggers and comedians, prizes, cupcakes, and gift bags! And feel free to come dressed as your favorite character. It's like a Trekkie convention for hot people!" Guests include such sharp NYC comics & writers as Evan Morgenstern (Start Trekkin'), Diana Saez (CNN, DC Comedy Festival), Heather Fink (Street Meat), Francesco Marciuliano (cartoonist), Amy Plitt (Time Out New York blogger), Jiwon Lee (Comedy Central), Jen Kwok (NBC Stand Up for Diversity Showcase), Baratunde Thurston (The Huffington Post), Leslie Goshko (Manhattan Monologue Champion), and Jeremy Redleaf (Atom Films), plus a song by Mieka Pauley.
If you've never seen Gossip Girl, this is a great opportunity to learn what all the fuss is about.
And if you're already a fan: OMFG, how can you even think about missing this?!?
9:30 pm at The Peoples Improv Theater, 154 West 29th Street (off 7th Avenue); tickets are $10
Judah Friedlander and More at Eastville
Judah Friedlander is a hilarious stand-up and occasional agent of chaos.
Judah is a cast member of 30 Rock, and has also performed on VH1’s Best Week Ever, HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm, MTV’s Wonder Showzen, and NBC's The Tonight Show.
In addition, Judah has acted in over 20 films, including such hit comedies as Meet the Parents, Zoolander, and Full Grown Men. Judah was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award for his role in American Splendor.
When asked in an interview about his influences, Judah responded: "Audiences. They are often the forgotten ingredient in stand-up comedy. Stand-up is live entertainment, and a live audience is needed. Also, whatever is happening at the moment. I play off of that. The moment is a big influence. If you’re not playing the moment you’re not doing stand-up comedy–someone just reciting material but not responding with what’s going on in the room is not stand-up comedy."
Judah is among the comics performing tonight at Eastville, the only comedy club in NYC's East Village.
Please Note: You can save $5 off the $15 cover by mentioning discount code HyReviews at the door.
Please also note there's a two-item minimum;
with tax & tip, figure on spending an additional $13 or up.
10:00 pm at Eastville Comedy Club, 85 East 4th Street (slightly west of 2nd Avenue);
$10 if you mention discount code HyReviews at the door, plus two-drink minimum
Anthony King demonstrates that in addition to running UCBT-NY brilliantly, he's a superb improvisor and actor. Joining him are stellar talents Eugene Cordero, Porter Mason, Lennon Parham, Ben Rodgers, Charlie Sanders, Eric Scott, Kate Spencer, Charlie Todd, and Joe Wengert. These improv stars tonight let "the gloves come off in a show that will give you a bloody nose from laughing so hard, and a bruise on your knee from slapping it the way people do when they laugh...Come get your head blown off as some of NYC's funniest improvisers attack the stage."
10:30 pm at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $10
Ted Greenberg: The Complete Performer
It would be hard to go wrong with a show from Ted Greenberg, the Emmy Award winning writer for seven seasons of Late Night with David Letterman. So it's not surprising this 30-minute act was a hit at this year's FringeNYC, often selling out performances.
The Complete Performer is a parody of typical NYC acts in small venues—improv, mind reading, card tricks, playing with the audience. It's essentially a comedy club act, but with gags in place of standard jokes. (If you're okay with having surprises spoiled, you can get a feel for Ted's approach by clicking here.)
Come enjoy quirky laughs from this seasoned pro; and hang out afterwards to chat with Ted, who's one of the friendliest Emmy winners you're ever likely to meet...and even promises to drive some audience members home!
10:30 pm at Soho Playhouse, 15 Vandam Street (between 6th Avenue & Varick); tickets are $15
Carolyn Castiglia, Ilana & Eliot Glazer, and Mindy Raf
High School Talent Show is a fun extravaganza from brother-sister duo Eliot & Ilana Glazer
in which "Upper Central High School's brightest stars take to the stage to deliver rabble-rousing performances in song, dance, magic, slam poetry, stilts, and more!" The cast of a dozen talented comics playing high school students includes brilliant writer/singer Mindy Raf, top stand-up & white rapper Carolyn Castiglia, unique sketch performer Rob Lathan, and The Back Room co-host Shawn Hollenbach.
Midnight at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue); tickets are $5
Paul Mooney: Headlining at Carolines
Fire-tongued comedy star Paul Mooney will be performing tonight through Sunday at Carolines. His numerous credits include writing for Richard Pryor, Saturday Night Live, and In Living Color, and performing on Late Show with David Letterman and Chappelle's Show. For video samples, please click here and here.
This New York comedy club show has a $31 cover plus two-drink minimum (with tax & tip, figure another $13 or up).
To order tickets, please click here.
12:30 pm at Carolines, 1626 Broadway (between 49th and 50th Streets);
$31 ticket plus two-drink minimum
NYC Comedy Picks for Sunday 3/8/09
I know, it's not a comedy; but I'm hoping Watchmen, based
on Alan Moore's absolutely brilliant comic book series, turns out to be the
best movie any of us have seen for a long time.
(Plus my favorite line of the graphic novel involves the word "joking"....)
As for NYC's comedy heroes:
Michelle Buteau (Electro Shock Therapy Comedy Hour) and Paul Mooney (Headlining at Carolines)
Tonight's recommendations for the best in New York City comedy
(in chronological order, with top picks noted and shows over $10 marked with $) include:
[TOP PICK] UCBT's playground for celebrities and ace improvisors,
ASSSSCAT 3000 (paid show at 7:30 pm, free show at 9:30 pm),
typically some of the best comics in the country joining comedy giants Eugene Mirman & Michael Showalter—winners of the 2008 ECNY Award for Best Hosts—for their weekly shindig at Brooklyn's Union Hall: Tearing the Veil of Maya (8:00 pm),
typically superb stand-ups at what's often among the funniest free productions in NYC,
from hosts Greg Johnson and Jacqueline Novak: President Johnson (8:00 pm),
talented stand-ups Joe DeVito (Last Comic Standing, Comedy Central), Luke Thayer (Living Room Comedy), Will Franken, Eric Krug, and Gabe Pacheco at RG Daniels' free Sunday Night Stand-Up (8:00 pm).
typically sharp NYC stand-up comics at Vince Averill's & Jesse Popp's free show Beauty Bar Comedy (9:00 pm),
[$] a provocative comedy star who's written for Richard Pryor, Red Foxx, and Saturday Night Live, and performed on Chappelle's Show and David Letterman, headlining at Carolines : Paul Mooney (10:00 pm),
[TOP PICK] and a terrific lineup of female stand-ups—Michelle Buteau (Last Comic Standing, Comedy Central), Jessimae Peluso ("The looks of Jen Aniston and the mouth of Sam Kinnison"), and Jenny Rubin (WE TV, The Back Room)at a free gay-themed show hosted by Brad Loekle: Electro Shock Therapy Comedy Hour (10:00 pm).
The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre's signature show, which features a monologist telling stories based on audience suggestions and a group of top improvisers (sometimes including stars such as SNL's Amy Poehler and Horatio Sanz) creating scenes based on the stories. There are two shows every Sunday which share the same format, but are otherwise entirely different because everything is improvised. The 7:30 pm show is $10; advance tickets might be sold out by the time you read this, but a limited number of seats are available at the door for
those who arrive early enough to nab 'em...and even more tickets are available for those willing to watch the show standing. The 9:30 show is free, with tickets distributed outside the theatre at 8:15 pm; but again, you may need to come early and wait on line to ensure getting into this first come, first served performance.
7:30 pm ($10) & 9:30 pm (free) at UCBT, 307 West 26th Street (off 8th Avenue)
Michael Showalter & Eugene Mirman
If you live in Brooklyn, or simply don't mind going a few subway stops beyond Manhattan,
some of the best funny minds in New York can be found at this weekly show
run by these two comedy giants (winners of the 2008 ECNY Award for Best Hosts):
Eugene Mirman (Late Night with Conan O'Brien, Comedy Central Presents half-hour special,
Comedy Central's Premium Blend and Jump Cuts, HBO's Flight of the Conchords, VH1,
The Absurd Nightclub Comedy of Eugene Mirman and En Garde, Society! comedy albums; new book The Will to Whatevs: A Guide to Modern Life) and
Michael Showalter (MTV's seminal sketch show The State, legendary comedy troupe Stella,
writer/director/star of feature film The Baxter, co-writer/co-star of feature film Wet Hot American Summer).
Tonight's guests haven't been announced, but they typically include some of the best comics in the country.
8:00 pm at Union Hall, 702 Union Street at 5th Avenue in Park Slope, Brooklyn; tickets are $7
Take the R train to Union Street and walk 1 block east; or take
the F train to 4th Avenue, walk north on 4th Avenue and turn right on Union Street, and go 1 block up;
or take the 2/3/4/5/Q train to Atlantic Avenue, walk south on 5th Avenue, and make a left on Union Street.
Joe DeVito and Luke Thayer
Sunday Night Stand-Up with RG Daniels
This free weekly stand-up comedy show features both established talents and up-and-comers. It's hosted by RG Daniels (quirky experimental comic; influences include Woody Allen and french fries).
Tonight's terrific guests are
Joe DeVito (writer for MTV, FUSE, film Super Size Me; semifinalist on Last Comic Standing; Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, Comedy Central's Live at Gotham; for a stand-up video about dating and fortune cookies, please click here),
Luke Thayer (co-host of Brooklyn biweekly live show Living Room Comedy),
and Will Franken, Eric Krug, and Gabe Pacheco.
8:00 pm at Three of Cups downstairs lounge, 83 1st Avenue (off 5th Street); free
Greg Johnson and Jacqueline Novak
This is one of the best comedy shows in New York—and is entirely free.
It's hosted by sharp, quick-witted Greg Johnson (check out his hilarious blog by clicking here) and Jacqueline Novak (Comedy Central Live Tour, XM Radio, CollegeHumor.com; for "response to heckler" video, please click here).
Tonight's guests haven't been announced, but the lineup usually includes some of the finest stand-up comics in New York.
8:00 pm at Pianos, 158 Ludlow Street at Stanton; free
Hosts Vince Averill and Jesse Popp
This long-running free weekly comedy show is hosted by Vince Averill (Comedy Central's Live at Gotham, DC Comedy Festival) and Jesse Popp (Comedy Central's Premium Blend).
Tonight's guests haven't been announced, but they're typically sharp NYC stand-up comics.
9:00 pm at Beauty Bar, 231 East 14th Street (between 2nd & 3rd Avenues); free
Paul Mooney: Headlining at Carolines
Fire-tongued comedy star Paul Mooney concludes his current NYC run tonight at Carolines. Mooney's numerous credits include writing for Richard Pryor, Saturday Night Live, and In Living Color, and performing on Late Show with David Letterman and Chappelle's Show. For video samples, please click here and here.
This New York comedy club show has a $31 cover plus two-drink minimum (with tax & tip, figure another $13 or up).
To order tickets, please click here.
10:00 pm at Carolines, 1626 Broadway (between 49th and 50th Streets);
$31 ticket plus two-drink minimum
Jessimae Peluso and Brad Loekle
The Electro Shock Therapy Comedy Hour
Brad Loekle (cast member of TruTV’s weekly The Smoking Gun Presents, co-host of Sirius Radio’s weekly OUT Q, columnist for monthly magazine Key West Gay Rag) hosts this gay-themed weekly stand-up comedy show. It's entirely free if you're okay with standing; otherwise plan on ordering food or a drink if you prefer sitting at a table.
Tonight's terrific all-female NYC stand-ups are
Michelle Buteau (Last Comic Standing, Comedy Central's Premium Blend;
for stand-up video about Utah, sharing, and tits, please click here),
Jessimae Peluso ("The looks of Jen Aniston and the mouth of Sam Kinnison"), and
Jenny Rubin (WE TV’s Cinematherapy and The Gutter, host of NYC weekly gay-themed live comedy show The Back Room).
Should be considerable fun.
10:00 pm at Therapy, 348 West 52nd Street (between 8th & 9th Avenues); free
Alternatively, consider seeing a funny and/or musical
Broadway, off-Broadway, or off-off-Broadway show.
To learn how theatre tickets can be purchased for around 50% off—
or, in some cases, for as little as $3.50 each—
please read Hy on Theatre Discounts.
And to learn about three fine low-cost productions
that are revivals of FringeNYC 2008 shows, please click here.
Copyright © 2009 Hy Bender
Email: hy@hyreviews.com
