Editor’s Note: The holidaze is just on the horizon, and we’re closing in on arguably the craziest time of the year, so stress is at an all-time high. With that being said, live comedy may just supply the release you’re looking for, and lucky for you, we’ve got you more than covered. 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 (November 19).
Matteo Lane at The Wilbur
Whether you’re looking for a night out, some top-tier storytelling, or maybe even some honest advice, Matteo Lane is person to see. With a contagious glow and dedication to the craft, the consistently wide-reaching fan favorite is all about making his shows an unforgettable experience, and judging by a mostly sold-out run at The Wilbur this time around, he’s firing on all cylinders and doesn’t look to be slowing down.
MATTEO LANE :: Wednesday, November 15 to Saturday, November 18 at The Wilbur Theatre, 246 Tremont St. in Boston, MA :: Showtimes vary, $37 to $75 :: Advance Tickets
Letterkenny Comedy at Royale
You heard some folks from your favorite fake town were coming to visit the other dayyyy… and what you’ll have to look forward to is the slow-burning chaotic energy of Letterkenny standout Mark Forward, and the wide-ranging comedy minds of Jeff McEnery, and show writers Olivia Stadler and Allie Pearse. Not to be dramatic, but if you were to miss out this, go find a trash can to kick, because it’d be pretty fucking embarrassing.
LETTERKENNY COMEDY :: Thursday, November 16 at Royale, 279 Tremont St. in Boston, MA :: 8 p.m., $39.75 :: Advance Tickets
Emma Willmann at Off Cabot
The Boston area is already quite familiar with Emma Willmann, and that should be all the more reason to get psyched when the self-deprecating sniper brings her always-potent and honestly forged comedy force to the North Shore. Could she sell out a bigger venue? Sure. Has she before? Absolutely. But you won’t get much a better chance to see a true lover of the craft in this close of a setting, so get there while you can.
EMMA WILLMANN :: Friday, November 17 and Saturday, November 18 at Off Cabot, 9 Wallis St. in Beverly, MA :: Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 4:30 and 7 p.m., $30 :: Advance Tickets
Chris Distefano at Chevalier Theatre
After a career-defining performance at a sold-out Radio City Music Hall earlier this year, Chris Distefano continues his dominant 2023 with a sold-out return to the area. As one of the truest examples of an “unfiltered” talent in the comedy game, there is no telling where Chrissy Clam Strips brings his next hour. But one thing is for certain: You’re not getting out of Medford without hearing at least one dramatic gasp or groan after Distefano takes the stage.
CHRIS DISTEFANO :: Saturday, November 18 at Chevalier Theatre, 30 Forest St. in Medford, MA :: 6 p.m., $37 to $99 :: Advance Tickets