Editor’s Note: The shot clock has been reset and we’re in the early innings of a brand new year. However, we all know just how grey and cold the winter months can feel once the holidays wrap up, so comedy is continuing to do the Lord’s work by giving us something to smile (or groan, wince, or gasp) at. 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 (February 4).
Ari Shaffir at The Wilbur
He may be on the wrong side of history, but Ari Shaffir is on the right side of our minds. Always one to live for the bit, Shaffir continues to offer up some of the most off-color yet thought provoking comedy today as he delves into everything from race and politics, to dishing out unprovoked criticisms on mundane, everyday things.
ARI SHAFFIR :: Thursday, February 1 and Friday, February 2 at The Wilbur Theatre, 246 Tremont St. in Boston, MA :: Thursday at 6:30 p.m. and Friday at 6:30 and 9 p.m., $20 to $69 :: Advance tickets
Kelly MacFarland at City Winery
Above all of her comedic talents, Kelly MacFarland has remained as consistent and fresh as she is funny and flawless in her delivery. As one of the best in the city to do what she does, from clubs to the arena stage, it’s almost a no-brainer to check out what she has to say if you get the chance.
KELLY MACFARLAND :: Friday, February 2 at City Winery, 80 Beverly St. in Boston, MA :: 6 p.m., $30 to $35 :: Advance tickets
Kill Tiny at Midway Cafe
No, it’s not the hit podcast you were thinking about, but it is a full night of comedy excellence from right in our very own backyard. With the punk rock comedy mind of Tiny at the helm, and joined by Trent Wells, Jack Hall, El Kennedy, Raul Biron and Tyler Tuttle, it’s sure to be a killer night indeed.
KILL TINY :: Saturday, February 2 at Midway Cafe, 3496 Washington St. in Jamaica Plain, MA :: 9 p.m., $12 :: Advance tickets
Jessica Kirson at The Wilbur
You want funny, Jessica Kirson’s got you. You want upfront and unfiltered, Kirson’s got you and then some. Quite frankly, there are so many boxes that she checks off when it comes to what makes a comedian such a magnetic artist, it would be nearly impossible to list them here. Trust us, she’s one of the best and regarded as such by her peers for so many reasons. Kirson’s got a little of something for everyone.
JESSICA KIRSON :: Sunday, February 3 at The Wilbur Theatre, 246 Tremont St. in Boston, MA :: 6 p.m. and 8:45 p.m., $35 to $47.50 :: Advance tickets