Where the Laughs Are

They may not always feature big names, but a range of comedy clubs and bars in town feature stand-up comedians, improvisers and sketch comedy that offer plenty of laughs for audiences throughout Milwaukee. Here’s TCD’s guide for comedy the rest of this week.

Tuesday, December 17 — Open Mic at Down & Over Pub

Bay View’s Down & Over Pub (2535 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.) wears a lot of caps, as an occasional swing dance site, karaoke lounge, rock ‘n roll venue and sports bar. But every Tuesday night it becomes a comedy club. As all are welcome to perform five minutes and the talent level varies from week to week. However, regular drop-ins by respected locals like Mario Robinson, Ryan Mason, Ryan Lowe, Chastity Washington, Gary Zajackowski and more balance out the beginners. No matter who takes the stage, $1 cans of Pabst and $2 Point “Big Charlie” tallboys are present every week. 9 p.m. to midnight. (Free)

Twice a month, Milwaukee based comedy collective Caste Of Killers hosts a comedy showcase in the lower level of the Karma Bar & Grill (600 E. Ogden Ave.) The semi-monthly shows highlight some of the best stand-up comedians in Milwaukee, as well as some from Chicago and Madison. Some of those vaunted locals highlighted in those weekend showcases were likely sired in the same cozy depths of the bar and grill during C.O.K.’s weekly open mic. Come and see Caste members work out new material, see fresh faces or try it out for yourself. 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Free)

Thursday, December 19 — Darryl Lenox with Steve Arik and Ryan Holman at Milwaukee’s Comedy Café

While not quite a comedy superstar, New York City-based funnyman Darryl Lenox has been a touring comic for more than 15 years. The partially blind touring comic’s labors are finally bearing fruit of late, with his critically acclaimed 2012 album Blind Ambition, an appearance on Conan earlier this year and a trip to Marc Maron’s garage as a guest on the beloved WTF Podcast. Thursday marks the first of a three-night, five-show run at the Comedy Café (615 E. Brady St.) for Lenox. Steve Arik and Milwaukee’s own Ryan Holman open. 8 p.m. ($5 + two drink minimum)

Friday, December 20 — Mike Marvell at Jokerz Comedy Club

“Couch Commander” Mike Marvell takes his grab bag of wacky domesticated humor on the road frequently. However, the Oak Creek-based family man gets to work close to home for the holidays with two nights worth of Yuletide yuks at Jokerz (11400 W. Silver Spring Rd.) You can catch him at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. both Friday and Saturday ($10)

Saturday, December 21 — Bye Bye Liver at Comedy Sportz Garage Theatre

Bye Bye Liver puts a local spin on sketch comedy, with a series of skits centered around a Wisconsin mainstay—drinking. The Comedy Sportz troupe tackles relatable alcohol-addled activities each week with bits about chatty drunks, “breaking the seal” and more. You won’t find a show like this in Utah. 420 S. 1st St., 9:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. ($15)

Sunday, December 22 — Dangerously Strong Open Mic at Rounding Third

The weekly open mic at Rounding Third Bar and Grill (6317 W. Bluemound Rd.) is among the longest running in town. Celebrate a Packers win at the sports bar with some locally sourced laughs. If you choose to try your hand, show up at 7 to sign up for a slot. 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. (Free)