Your next seven days should be filled with laughter. The following could help.
Friday, Jan. 13: Sheryl Underwood at DC Improv
Sheryl Underwood should be more popular. Her style is similar to that of Chelsea Handler and Whitney Cummings, but, you know, funny. There’s no reason she shouldn’t have her own sitcom. It won’t shock me if that happens in the next few years. Underwood is now part of that not-The View show, The Talk. If her appearances on that destined-to-be-not-good show are similar to her stand-up, she’ll have a whole new crop of fans. 7 p.m., 9 p.m., and 11 p.m. $25. 21-plus.
Saturday, Jan. 14: JB Smoove at 9:30 Club
One of the few good things that came out of Hurricane Katrina was JB Smoove joining the cast of Curb Your Enthusiasm. His style of comedy isn’t neurotic, like Larry David‘s, or improv-heavy, like Jeff Garland‘s, yet he worked. Smoove is a comedian for the masses. Loud, animated, and tackling everyday topics, Smoove wants to be a performer that can fill a space the size of 9:30 club. 7 p.m., $35, all ages.
Wednesday, Jan. 18: Story League Story Contest 3: My Secret at Busboys and Poets
The popularity of storytelling nights in D.C. continues to grow with this Story League-produced show at Busboys and Poets on 14th Street. Boston comic Ken Reid hosts an evening of stories from those willing to reveal. Reid is an excellent choice for this event; his style is already similar to storytelling. A favorite of Patton Oswalt and Eugene Mirman, Reid is more than capable of keeping things light, yet grounded. The SL has been producing shows like this for the past few months, and each one has been bigger than the last. Purchase tickets now to grab a seat. The last show sold out far in advance. 9 p.m., $10, all ages.
Thursday, Jan. 19: Comedy in Clarendon at Eleventh Street Lounge
The Eleventh Street Lounge is closing due to condo development. Rather than close up shop and mourn at the bar, Chris Barylick is producing one last Comedy in Clarendon. On the bill is a mix of a handful of decent, longstanding D.C. stand-ups and some extremely wet behind the ears open mic’ers. It’s a great chance to see what the scene has to offer and, well, to feel good about yourself. This finale doubles as a canned food drive. 7 p.m., no cover (bring a can of food), 21+.