Editor’s Note: The summer is finally here, and with it, the delicate New England balance between cold and rainy days and uncomfortably humid nights. What helps with keeping that balance bearable is the fact that indoor spaces are air conditioned, and most comedy shows are indoors (you see where we’re going with this, right?). With homegrown talent, national headliners, and open mics galore highlighting the calendar, the plethora of powerful comedy throughout the commonwealth continues to show up, night after night. Enter Mic’d Up, our ongoing weekly series that details the best live comedy shows to consider as you head out and about. Below find our rundown for this week, through Sunday (July 2).
Shalewa Sharpe at Middlesex
Whether it’s a social take, a finely crafted story, or just a jarringly funny observation about even the more mundane details of the day, Shalewa Sharpe has it all and then some. Saying that someone is capable of “putting on a clinic” is one thing, but to able to actually witness it in real time, in one of the area’s most interesting spots for a comedy show, you just can’t beat that.
SHALEWA SHARPE :: Wednesday, June 28 at Middlesex, 315 Massachusetts Ave. in Cambridge, MA :: 7:30 p.m., Free admission :: RSVP
Shyam Subramanian at Nick’s Comedy Stop
When it comes to the local scene, and those hustling within it, you just don’t get much better than Shyam Subramanian. With an unflinching wit that knows no mercy in all the best ways, this headlining gig spotlighting one of the city’s best comedy talents is as intriguing to your wallet as it should be to you.
SHYAM SUBRAMANIAN :: Friday, June 30 at Nick’s Comedy Stop, 100 Warrenton St. in Boston, MA :: 8 p.m., $22 :: Advance Tickets
Kenny Gray’s Bachelor Party at The Rockwell
What happens at The Rockwell stays at The Rockwell. And no, it’s not a cheeky marketing name for a show. It’s legitimately Kenny Gray’s bachelor party, and instead of what some might consider to be the essentials when it comes to such an occasion, Gray is bringing his favorite friends who stay fully clothed on stage to cause a little good-natured ruckus.
KENNY GRAY’S BACHELOR PARTY :: Friday, June 30 at The Rockwell, 255 Elm St. in Somerville, MA :: 8:30 p.m., Free admission :: Advance tickets
Jay Larson at Laugh Boston
He may sound like Bruce over the phone, but not long separated from the premiere of his latest hour special, Larson is sounding as comedically potent and focused as ever. As a hometown guy, the relatability is already there, and with a new hour to unleash, it’s bound to be one hell of a homecoming.
JAY LARSON :: Friday, June 30 and Saturday, July 1 at Laugh Boston, 425 Summer St. in Boston, MA :: Friday at 6 p.m., Saturday at 6 and 9 p.m., $33 :: Advance Tickets