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ARTS Pick: United Nations of Comedy

Laughing all the way: As a shy kid growing up in Washington, D.C., United Nations of Comedy headliner Jay Phillips would watch “Saturday Night Live” and “An Evening at the Improv,” and play his mom’s comedy records on repeat, learning from the greats before he put his own routine on stage. He drew laughs at his first gig, and was hooked. His standup eventually led to a spot as the co-host of Baltimore’s WXYZ’s morning show, then a performance at HBO’s comedy festival set the wheels in motion for a move to Los Angeles, where he ventured into acting and appeared in the movies Semi-Pro, Baby Mama, and Prom Night, as well as an extensive list of television shows. Phillips joins Funnyman Skiba, Liz Miele, and Brendan Eyre for the annual comedy event that promotes diversity through laughter.

Saturday, November 16. $37.50, 8pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. 979-1333.

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ARTS Pick: Antoine Scott

Antoine Scott has shared the stage with such comedic notables as Kevin Hart and “30 Rock”’s Tracy Morgan, and has appeared on Showtime and TV One. Scott’s manic energy takes audiences along on a wild comedy ride with a special Mother’s Day show presented by the United Nations of Comedy that includes Anthony DeVito and Funnyman Skiba.

Saturday, May 13. $20, 7:30pm. Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, 233 Fourth St., NW. 260-8720.

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Arts

ARTS Pick: Funnyman Skiba

Not only does Funnyman Skiba keep things rolling between bits during the annual United Nations of Comedy show, he cultivates new talent while maintaining a stand-up career of his own. Skiba has shared the stage with Martin Lawrence, Dave Chappelle and Kevin Hart, and is referred to by peers as a comedian’s comedian. The Washington, D.C., native and frequent local performer returns for another round of observation on what’s so funny.

Friday, February 17. $20, 8pm. Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, 233 Fourth St. NW. 825-0650.