We’re here with a rundown of five of the best live comedy shows happening in the Phoenix area this February. From stand-up to podcast recordings to sketch to improv, there’s plenty worth laughing at this month.

2.9-10

Hannibal Buress at Stand Up Live

Nobody’s having more fun out there than Hannibal Buress, a walking endorsement for doing whatever the hell you want all the time. He’s known to show up unannounced, open for musicians, pop into all-local standup shows and drop surprisingly catchy rap songs under his alter ego Eshu Tune. There’s no telling what you’ll get from a live Hannibal show these days, but we can guarantee it’ll be extremely funny. $45. Thursday at 8 p.m.; Friday at 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. 50 W Jefferson St. Phoenix, AZ; phoenix.standuplive.com // @standuplive

2.11

Victory The Podcast at Stand Up Live

A podcast featuring “Entourage” stars Kevin Dillon and Kevin Connolly, along with the show’s creator Doug Ellin, “Victory” digs into all the behind-the-scenes gossip and previously undisclosed secrets about the production of everyone’s favorite Hollywood fantasy. The guys are dropping by Phoenix for one night only to get real and tape a special episode of their podcast, followed by an audience Q&A. $50. 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. 50 W Jefferson St. Phoenix, AZ; phoenix.standuplive.com // @standuplive

2.17-19

Damon Wayans Jr. at the Tempe Improv

Star of cult sitcoms like “New Girl” and “Happy Endings” and films like “Big Hero 6” and “Let’s Be Cops,” Damon Wayans Jr. could easily rest on his laurels as a comedic actor and writer. Luckily for us, he’s also a dedicated stand-up comedian, playing frequently sold-out runs at comedy clubs and theaters around the country. His live act is a mix of observational and political material, speaking truth to power about injustices in America while also being extremely funny and relatable. $30+. Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m., Sunday at 7 p.m. 930 E University Dr. Tempe, AZ; tempeimprov.com // @tempeimprov

2.23

Joe Pera at The Van Buren

Joe Pera’s one of our favorite comedians right now, as a warm, friendly young man with the soul of an 80-year-old NPR broadcaster. His long-winded shaggy dog stories and slow, rambling delivery set him apart from his more energetic, abrasive peers, which make the moments of subversion in his act that much more surprising and impressive. Do yourself a favor and watch every episode of “Joe Pera Talks with You” and then go see Joe live — you won’t regret it. $23+. 8 p.m. 401 W Van Buren St. Phoenix, AZ; @thevanburenphx

2.24

Vaude Com at the Neighborhood Comedy Theatre

Dubbed “a variety show competition,” Vaude Com is a comedy show that doubles as a cutthroat battle for the audience’s love, which pits a trio of comedy troupes against each other. Each group gets 20 minutes to win over the audience, with the winners taking home a cash prize and the chance to return the following month to defend their victory. $10. 9:30 p.m. 214 W Main St. Mesa, AZ; nctphoenix.com // @nctphx

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