I was a big fan of Hot Tub when it was at The PIT so I was curious to see what would become of the beloved alternative comedy variety show in a bigger venue like Comix, where it now appears on a monthly basis. I wasn’t disappointed. I love the space: brand new, clean and a little swanky. The stage is too small for the blow up kiddie pool they used to have at The PIT, so instead they use a projection of a real hot tub as a backdrop.

The ticket cost $15 plus a $5 handling charge, but thankfully no drink minimum as the drinks are pricey. My friend’s well vodka and soda cost $8 but your standard girly drinks, like cosmos, ran from $11-16. There are food options as well, and since I was hungry I chose the eggplant and zucchini chips appetizer ($8) and a coke ($4). It was tasty, albeit a little cold.

Kurt Braunohler and Kristen Schaal were fabulous as always. They work so well together and it’s hard to tell whether it’s scripted or improv or both because they are so natural and hilarious and lovable. They should have their own tv show. I would watch it. It would be way better than Leno. Check out video clips of these two performing.

The line up for this show was incredible, starting with Michael Showalter and ending with David Cross. Yay!

Michael Showalter told some stories about his awkward youth and sang his own version of Maria from West Side Story. He’s great because I’ve seen him a bunch and I’ve never seen him do the same thing twice. I’m either really lucky or he’s got a ton of material.

Marcus Monroe was next. When he first appeared on stage, I grumbled. I don’t like prop comics as a rule and of course Carrot Top is king of my nightmares, but this guy was the funnest. He was a juggler! I was pleasantly surprised. He was so enthusiastic that even when he failed, he was endearing.

John Oliver was hilarious. I found out after the show that he’s a regular correspondent for The Daily Show which makes sense seeing as he was all about the political comedy in a truly informed and very specific way.

David Cross spoofed The Bank of America merger video. I was lost cause I hadn’t seen the youtube clip, but it was still really funny. You can see both clips here.

This was one of the best shows I’ve seen in a while. I was pleased to see that the new venue worked so well for Kurt and Kristen and that they seem to be finding an even larger audience for their unique brand of humor.

It’s cool to be able to eat and drink at the show, but on the other hand, I find it a little annoying to be asked every few minutes by the waitress if I’m okay. To be fair I guess that’s her job; I just don’t like to be interrupted when I’m laughing.

The verdict? You MUST go see this show. NOW. Okay, well you can’t go RIGHT now, but go soon, you won’t regret it. The next show at Comix is on Dec 20 at 8pm. Buy tickets in advance and get there a little early if you want a good seat. It’s general admission, but you will be seated by a hostess. And don’t even think about trying to skip out without paying your bill. You must show a ticket that proves you’ve paid for your drinks or they won’t let you out of the room. Have fun!