Editor’s Note: It’s equal parts exciting and terrifying to see the calendar flip to October in New England, and not just because it means the Red Sox aren’t contending. To help soothe all the seasonal panic that comes with preparing for two weeks of pretty landscapes and then months of snowfall that seems to linger until “Smarch,” the one constant throughout all the seasons is comedy, and that is one thing that keeps on flowing like the finest PSL on tap. 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. To help you make sense of all of the wonderful options, 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 (October 13).
Steph Tolev at Paradise Rock Club
In the realm of the “new wave” of comedians bursting into the scene, you don’t get much more rock and roll than Steph Tolev, so it only makes sense that she’s not only setting up shop in a space not commonly used for comedy, but also that she’s taking the opportunity to record her next special here, as well. Wielding a bulked-up edition of her refreshingly brash and unfiltered brand of comedy, Tolev is sure to make the moment special indeed.
STEPH TOLEV :: Thursday, October 10 at Paradise Rock Club, 967 Commonwealth Ave. in Boston, MA :: 5 and 8:30 p.m., 18-plus, $29.50 advance and $35 at doors :: Advance tickets
Brian Simpson at The Wilbur
In terms of “coolness,” you just don’t get much cooler than Brian Simpson. His stage presence, his approach to the art of stand-up, everything is so smooth, which only gives more reason to why he is one of the most in-demand names in the comedy game today. With a lot to share, and close to zero eff’s to give, Simpson is only going to bring you the best of what he has to offer.
BRIAN SIMPSON :: Friday, October 11 at The Wilbur Theatre, 246 Tremont St. in Boston, MA :: 6:30 p.m., $27 to $57 :: Advance tickets
Street Party at The Comedy Studio
The legendary local venue has been back on its feet for a few weeks in their new location, but now it’s time to celebrate the new chapter. With an all-out bacchanalia of food, beer, entertainment and an X Factor-style comedy competition judged by Gary Gulman, Eugene Mirman and Jenny Zigrino, there’s no shortage of fun to be had on JFK Street. Plus, admission is free, so it checks all the boxes for a proper holiday weekend rager.
STREET PARTY :: Sunday, October 13 at The Comedy Studio, 5 John F. Kennedy St. in Cambridge, MA :: 2 to 6 p.m., free admission :: Event info