It’s a great time of year for San Francisco comedy.  Because this time of year is SF Sketchfest.  The shows start tonight and go until the 29th.  

Listen - every show is good. But the ones below are our personal favorites. It’s time to go brave the cold and go get some laughs.

Your Daily Dose of Improv

You would do yourself a huge disservice to stick to the stand-up shows, as improv is arguably just as crucial in the chemistry of comedy. That’s why the almost-daily improv showcase at PianoFight is absolutely essential for those seeking a deep dive into the most unpredictable form of comedy available. Of particular note is the showcase on Thursday, January 19th, hosted by the local, clothing-optional sketch comedy troupe Chardonnay. They’re funny, they’re naked - there’s just a lot going on there.

For the Nerds

On that same night, the California Academy of Sciences will host an adults-only extravaganza with a live performance by “scientists” Frank Beaulieu and Frank Conniff of Mystery Science Theater 3000.  There’ll be live DJs, alcoholic beverages, and satirical TED Talks, among other weird offerings.

The Comedy Cutting Edge

When it comes to the avant-garde, San Francisco plays second fiddle to no one. The most curious comedy-seekers should see Ian Abramson’s 7 Minutes of Purgatory, which debuts this Friday, 8:00pm at the Eureka Theater. Abramson encloses comedians in a soundproof booth, where they perform for an audience in a separate room via closed-circuit television. It’s a disorienting experience for both audience and performer, and it’s just a ton of fun.

I’m Really Big Abroad

On Friday, January 20th at the Brava Theater, showgoers can treat themselves to unfamiliar, international comedy delivered by award-winning comedians Aisling Bea and James Acaster, from Ireland and New Zealand, respectively.

The Best Part...

What delights us most, frankly, is that readers could ignore all our suggestions and would still be guaranteed a great time.  Check out the full schedule and line-up here - tickets are going fast.