Alternative Amusement

Tired of one-liners on dating, traffic and Stairmasters? These shows offer an alternative approach to comedy:

Hot Cup of Talk, at the Groundling Theater, 7307 Melrose Ave., Hollywood. Five comics per show perform alternative stand-up. Wednesday nights at 7:30 starting Aug. 24. $2 admission. Information: (213) 934-4747.

Incognito, at the Diamond Club, 7070 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. An alternative twist is given to sketch comedy, character acts and improv. Every Thursday at 8 p.m. $5 admission. Information: (213) 969-8322.

Klub Uvula, at the Variety Arts Center, 940 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles. A wide range of entertainment includes alternative stand-up and improv. Every Saturday at 9 p.m. $12.50 admission. Information: (213) 368-8958.

Lava Lounge, 1533 N. La Brea Ave., Hollywood. A night of alternative comedy is hosted by Josh Di Donato every Monday at 9:30. Free admission. Information: (213) 876-6612.

Tantrum, at the Diamond Club, 7070 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. Spoken word and alternative comedy are presented every Wednesday with “dignity and self-indulgence,” at 8 p.m. $5 admission. Information: (213) 969-8322.

Think Tank, at the Student Union, UCLA. This series of free stand-up shows ran Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. through the spring. The series is expected to continue in the fall. Information: (310) 206-0833.

The Uncabaret, at LunaPark, 665 N. Robertson, West Hollywood. Beth Lapides hosts the mother-show of the alternative comedy scene. Five comics are presented every Sunday at 7:30 p.m. $6 admission. Information: (310) 652-0611.