Performing Arts 2012-13 season preview
ASU Comedy: Created in 1985, this group’s Barren Mind Improv and Farce Side Sketch Comedy troupes perform free shows Thursdays and Fridays on the MU Stage, on the lower level of the Arizona State University Memorial Union in Tempe. Info: asucomedy.com.
Jester’Z Improv Comedy: This 10-year-old group, that formed out of the Valley’s even older Oxymoron’z comedy troupe, specializes in improv. Shows are every Friday and Saturday at Theater 168 in Scottsdale. They also host beginning-to-advanced comedy workshops, private coaching and teen improv classes at the theater and at Jester’z Performing Arts training center in Mesa. Info: (480) 423-0120 or jesterzimprov.com.
National Comedy Theatre: This Best of East Valley award-winning improv troupe performs all-ages comedy shows based on audience suggestions every Friday and Saturday night at its own Mesa theater. Info: (602) 374-5638 or nctphoenix.com.
Stand Up Live Comedy Theater: This Phoenix comedy venue, located at CityScape, features national headliners such as Steve-O, Craig Shoemaker, Pablo Francisco and Jo Koy. The 600-seat theater features an upscale menu and full bar. Info: (480) 719-6100 or standuplive.com.
Stand up Scottsdale: Formerly Anderson’s 5th Estate, Stand-Up Scottsdale features comedy from the likes of Sheng Wang, Ben Gleib and John Roy, among others. Info: (480) 882-0730 or standupscottsdale.com.
