December 26, 1996–January 2, 1997

critic pick

Todd Glass

Native Philadelphian Todd Glass admits that he looks like a cross between Fred Flintstone and Oliver North, but that's just the beginning of his silly and fun stand-up routine. He recalls his mother's Christmas spirit ("Next year, we're not having a Christmas because I'm tired of doing this by myself!") and jokes about everything from shredded tires by the side of the road to Phil Donahue's loquaciousness. He often tops it with taped sound effects for that extra layer of goofiness. Glass has a great tip to curb New Year's drinking and driving: if you're out at a party and drunk, instead of driving yourself home, stumble over to Domino's and order a pizza. When they get ready to deliver it, jump in the truck with the driver — it's a free ride. Who knew comedy could be so practical?

Sun.-Wed., Dec. 26-29, Catch a Rising Star, 221 South St., 440-HAHA.

— Neil Gladstone