How many comedians does it take to screw in a light bulb? You’ll only find out at the Empty Stage Theatre, in West L.A. When it comes to funny business – the kind that make you laugh, not the shady kind – this is where life and attitude is witty, droll, hilarious and just plain funny.

If you’re in the mood for a little drama, or a bit of emoting and emotion, the Empty Stage offers that also. Not only will you enjoy being part of the Empty Stage audience, but this is the paramount spot to hone in on your stage skills, whether it be improv, comedy, skits or showcasing a new play. The teachers are pros and owner Stan Wells has sharpened the skills of many a celeb, including Conan O’Brien, Jon Lovitz, Rita Wilson, Kathy Griffin and Kim Cattrall, just to namedrop a few.

Here is a mini rundown on some of the shows: Friday at 8 p.m. is Being Human, about how amusing real life is. At 9 p.m. on Fridays is Pop! – political irony, jibes and retorts at their wisecracking best. At 10 p.m. on alternate Fridays is Empty Mike night, your chance to either heat up the place or take the heat. On other alternating Fridays it’s Vodka and Doughnuts, showcasing the Empty Stage’s up-and-coming newest harvest of talent.

On to Saturday at 8 p.m. and The Waterbrains comedy routine – the name alone gives you an idea of the random, erratic, haphazard and zany comedy sure to befall. Spend Saturday at 9 p.m. with The Transformers – anything goes with this group of comics and improv pros. Conan O’Brien wrote about them a couple years ago, saying, "… like cream, you have risen to the top and curdled." Saturday at 10 p.m., enter the Fortune Room, if you dare. It’s a kind of comedy/musical noir, hip bar-beverage-song spot for the new in-crowd, wannabes and wannabes-in-training. Sunday evenings at 7 p.m. is Barbie’s Cousin.

The Empty Stage Theatre has produced hundreds of highly praised and widely applauded comedy improv shows and plays. Check out their Web site at www.emptystage.com for show schedules and classes.

The Empty Stage Theatre is located at 2372 Veteran Ave., in West Los Angeles. For more information, call (310) 470-3560.

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