Comedy Nights in Hamilton

Comedy Nights in Hamilton run $15 to $21.50 a ticket, and Emerson 109 lists no cover for its Tuesday 9:30 stand-up near McMaster. Levity on King St W puts three comics on every bill: an MC, a feature and a headliner. The room is 19 and over, and Wednesday is Amateur Night. CFTA on James St. S seats 40-plus close to the stage, with a Thursday open mic at 8.

If you'd rather be the one on stage, Staircase Improv on Dundurn Street North runs Monday Basics classes at 7. Next door, The Staircase pairs stand-up with 2-for-1 drinks from its Lounge.