While attending Georgetown University, Mike Birbiglia won a competition for funniest man on campus, earning him the opportunity to perform at DC Improv. He’s since emerged into comedic fame across the country as a regular contributor on radio’s The Bob and Tom Show and This American Life plus the star of his one-man off-Broadway show, Sleepwalk With Me, detailing his experiences with a sleeping disorder. He writes the blog My Secret Public Journal, where personal anecdotes become fodder for his deadpan wit. Birbiglia returns to Washington on Saturday, October 10, for a standup show at the Warner Theatre at 8. Tickets ($23 to $33) can be purchased by calling 877-598-8696 or 800-551-7328 or by clicking here.

Tyler Perry of House of Payne fame is coming to Washington for a performance of his 11th play, Laugh to Keep From Crying. It’s intended as a lighthearted look at a tough world, performed à la Diary of a Mad Black Woman. Perry’s show will be performed October 13 through 17 at the Warner Theatre; the show starts at 8 every night, with a 3 PM matinee on Saturday. Tickets ($47 to $57) can be purchased by calling either 877-598-8696 or 800-551-7328 or by clicking here.

Here’s your chance to see possible comedy stars of tomorrow. Graduates of DC Improv’s four-week comedy school will demonstrate their newly honed skills alongside their instructor, Chris Coccia, at the Five Minutes to Funny Graduation Showcase on Thursday, October 15. Coccia is a well-regarded comedian in his own right, having opened for David Sanborn, Chicago, and the Oak Ridge Boys, and was recently selected as a finalist in the Great American Comedy Festival. The event will be held at DC Improv Comedy Club. The doors open at 7, and the show starts at 8; tickets ($10) can be purchased here.

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