Catch a Laugh at These Upcoming Comedy Shows

Are you ready to LOL (laugh out loud) during Sarasota's vibrant performing arts season? Whether you want to giggle, guffaw or belly laugh, Sarasota has options to tickle your funny bone. 

McCurdy's Comedy Theatre

Sarasota has its own comedy club, McCurdy's Comedy Theatre and Humor Institute, nestled in the heart of downtown. McCurdy's has been part of Sarasota's performing arts scene since 1988, and was created as a world-class showroom devoted to the art of stand-up comedy. Most seats are only 35 feet from the stage or less, and there are 72-inch high-definition monitors, so you never miss the action. Its adjacent Green Room offers a full bar and menu, featuring drinks like Crystal Blue Persuasion (a martini made with blueberry vodka) and Coconut 'Callback' Shrimp. Special appearances from acclaimed comedy stars have included the hilarious Rob Schneider and Lynne Koplitz, while weekly local talents keep attendees in constant stitches. 

Some upcoming acts at McCurdy's include:
April 2-5, The World Series of Comedy, featuring 40 touring comics with a final competition in Las Vegas

April 17-20, Dean Napolitano, described as " a throwback to comedians of yesteryear with a modern twist"

April 24 & 27, Al Ernst, voted as "Entertainer of the Year" by Carnival Cruise Lines

McCurdy also holds true to the Humor Institute portion of its name, offering a 12-hour, three-day Comedy Boot Camp to help attendees develop a three- to five-minute stand-up set.

1923 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34236

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Located along the Sarasota Bay shoreline, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is known for its unique mix of musicals, musicians, plays and acclaimed speakers. For some real fun, check out these upcoming shows at our famous purple performing hall that has welcomed the likes of Sebastian Maniscalco and Impractical Jokers' Joe Gratto.

April 22-27, the Sarasota debut of Beetlejuice
The musical is based on Tim Burton's movie of the same name. It shares the story of Lydia Deetz, a teenager whose life changes when she meets a couple that's recently died and a demon with a love of stripes. Beetlejuice has an astonishing set and a score that's said to be out of this "Netherworld". There's also a "Masterclass: Beetlejuice" taking place on April 24. 

May 1, John Crist: Jokes for Humans
With his nearly sold-out Emotional Support Tour, Crist's relatable and candid comedy has made him a viral sensation. In fact, he has 7 million social media fans and more than 1 billion video views, so you know you can bank on some solid laughs and entertainment.

June 4-6, Leanne Morgan: Just Getting Started
You may have first seen Morgan on her popular Netflix special, I'm Every Woman, but now the stand-up comedian and actress will be gracing the stage in Sarasota on her nationwide tour, delivering some of that relatable motherhood humor and Southern charm.  

777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236

Florida Studio Theatre

Florida Studio Theatre (FST) offers a wide range of great shows in a retro theater setting in downtown Sarasota. And if you're not looking for a seat in the audience to share a laugh, consider developing the skills to erupt a crowd of laughter yourself through FST's adult improvisation classes and workshops, led by some pretty funny professionals. 

March 15 - April 13, The Flying Penguin & Other Winning Plays 
Want to get your kids involved with some fun and laughter? The FST also has an option for you. Taking place inside FST's Keating Theatre, these plays are penned by elementary school students from the local community and around the world and brought to life by professional actors. The transformative power of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and a penguin flying to outer space are just some of the creative themes you'll find.

April 5 - May 30, Comedy Roulette 
Featuring FST Improv performers, this spring show is all about chance, skill and high stakes. You'll join four seasoned improvers as they bet "the house" (meaning you, the audience) in a mashup of short-form, long-form and musical improv. Attendees can also enjoy a cocktail and meal at Bowne's Lab before attending a show, with entrees like Tortellini with Sausage and Crab Cakes.

1241 North Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

Lemon Bay Playhouse

Located in Olde Englewood Village, the historic Lemon Bay Playhouse is celebrating its 37th season of local entertainment, and the spring lineup offers some fitting laughs. 

April 12, Mary Ellen DePetrillo Comedy Show
Come check out DePetrillo's extremely relatable family-life jokes and experience the charm of a seasoned stand-up comic who bridges the gap between generations with her unique storytelling style and zippy punchlines.

96 W Dearborn St, Englewood, FL 34223

Venice Theatre

Cruise down to Historic Downtown Venice for a few giggles at the nationally acclaimed community theater, Venice Theatre, which offers year-round shows for visitors and locals alike—from contemporary dramas and Broadway musicals to comedic plays and cabarets. 

April 11 - May 4, The Learned Ladies
Enjoy a witty, classical verse of comedy about the "haughty pretensions" of a woman’s self-educating salon as she finds herself tangled in a love triangle that threatens to scandalize her household.

140 Tampa Ave W, Venice, FL 34285