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John Mulaney is possibly the driest comic working today. He’s also one of the best. His sardonic wit and whip-smart routine launched him to fame earlier this year after his hour-long special New in Town hit Comedy Central. But Saturday Night Live fans may better recognize him as the co-creator of Stefon, an absurd club kid with a love of mashups. (He’s written for the show since 2008.) Mulaney’s no stranger to D.C., though: He graduated from Georgetown University in 2004, where, alongside Mike Birbiglia and Nick Kroll, he was part of a veritable honor roll of aspiring comedians. The typical Mulaney set weaves pop sensibilities with a killer deadpan delivery—like about how he once tortured diner customers with a marathon session of Tom Jones’ “What’s New Pussycat”—that, coupled with his boyish looks, makes him a natural heir to the likes of Bob Newhart. Scoff at the comparison if you want, but Mulaney’s on track to a much higher level.
John Mulaney performs at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. at the DC Improv, 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW. $20. dcimprov.com. (202) 296-7008.