Laugh Your Troubles Away

Laffs Comedy Club

If laughter is really the best medicine, then you may want to check yourself into the nearest comedy club and try an alternative treatment for whatever ails you. The staff of comedic "doctors" will leave you in stitches (of laughter) with their humorous stageside manners.

Arizona has several true comedy clubs where, in an intimate setting of two or three hundred, you can enjoy drinks, dinner, and live comedy: The Comedy Spot, 7117 E. Third Ave., Scottsdale, 480-945-4422; The Improv., 930 E. University, Tempe, 480-921-9877; Laffs Comedy Club, 2900 E. Broadway, Ste. 154, Tucson, 520-323-8669; Theater 168.com, 7117 E. McDowell, Scottsdale, 480-423-0120.

Stand-up comedy is a unique art form. You go to a comedy club to forget your problems and feel good for an hour and a half. Like most shows and events, there is nothing like the atmosphere, excitement, and spontaneity of a live performance.

Most shows include and MC, a feature comic, and the headliner, so if one comic doesn't tickle your funny bone, chances are another one will. Even the crowds vary from night to night. According to Johnny Dingo from Laffs Comedy Club in Tucson, the audience tends to be a little more polite and conservative on weekdays, whereas weekend crowds, especially at late shows, are looser and more talkative. Since there is no formal rating system regarding the material and language you'll hear on stage, call ahead to check for controversial or offensive content.

Who are some of these comedians? Tere Joyce is one of the very few female comedians who does stand-up full time. After high school and college theater, she found she had a flair for comedy. "It's and adrenaline rush every time." Walt Maxam, a 57-year old married Vietnam Vet advises, "Don't quit your day job until you make it." He tested his comedic talent during an open mic night at a comedy club and got hooked. For Johnny Dingo, stand-up comedy is a "paid hobby," though bartending and managing a club pay the bills.

Generally, you must be 18 or older to get into a club and 21 to be served alcoholic drinks, but once you're in, you'll enjoy a night of laughs.