If you subscribe to the theory that laughter between lovers leads to…well, all the stuff lovers do on Valentine’s Day, then be advised to grab a date for the Mike Epps’s Valentine’s Day Comedy Explosion, where laughter is a sure thing. The seasoned comedian began building his reputation on the Def Jam Comedy tour and has since landed parts in a slew of comedies, including the role of Ice Cube’s sidekick in Next Friday. Richard Pryor’s wife has also asked Epps to play the legend in a biopic.

For his Valentine’s Day show here, Epps’s edgy humor will likely include his thoughts on relationships. And for some, his analysis of the dynamic of unfulfilled sexual promises may include some foreshadowing. At least it comes with a dose of humor. BET Comic View alumni Kenny Howell and Dominique open. 8 and 11 p.m. Arena Theatre Houston, 7326 Southwest Freeway. For information, call 713-772-5900 or visit www.arenahouston.com. $55.


Sat., Feb. 14, 8 p.m., 2009

This article appears in Feb 12-18, 2009.