Aries Spears

MADtv Legend Brings Decades of Comedy Firepower to Ybor City

Aries Spears takes the Funny Bone stage on Friday, September 25th at 7:00 PM, delivering the kind of sharp observational comedy and spot-on impressions that made him a standout during his decade-long run on MADtv. The intimate Ybor City venue puts audiences within feet of a performer who's been perfecting his craft since childhood, creating the kind of electric atmosphere where comedians feed off crowd energy and spontaneous moments happen. This all-ages show offers a rare chance to catch a seasoned pro who's shared stages with everyone from Eddie Murphy to Jay-Z, now working a room small enough that every facial expression lands.

What to Expect:
The Funny Bone's layout ensures there's not a bad seat in the house, though the 7:00 PM start time means this show wraps early enough to explore Ybor City's nightlife afterward. Spears built his reputation on fearless material and celebrity impressions that go beyond surface-level mimicry, so expect a set that moves between cultural commentary and characters. The Friday crowd typically skews toward comedy fans who know his work, creating an audience ready to engage rather than just passively watch.

Insider Tips:
- Securing Aries Spears tickets in advance beats dealing with potential sellouts for a performer of this caliber
- The Funny Bone seats guests restaurant-style, so arriving 30-45 minutes early guarantees better table placement
- Two-item minimum per person is standard - the food menu runs deeper than typical comedy club fare
- Friday nights in Ybor City mean street parking fills fast; plan accordingly
- Cell phones stay put during the show, so catch up on messages before the lights drop
- The venue keeps the AC running strong, so a light layer helps during the full set

Getting There:
The Funny Bone sits right on East 8th Avenue in the heart of Ybor City's entertainment district, making it accessible from multiple directions. Centro Ybor Garage on North 16th Street offers covered parking just 212 meters from the venue, while the YFAC1 surface lot on East 9th Avenue sits even closer at 167 meters. The TECO Streetcar stops at Centro Ybor, practically at the venue's doorstep - both stations on East 8th Avenue sit within 50 meters of the club. Several bus routes serve the area, with stops along Palm Avenue at 17th Street and 7th Avenue at 17th Street within a two-block walk. Ybor City's compact layout means most visitors can park once and walk to multiple destinations throughout the evening.

Local Scene:
Ybor City's dining scene clusters within steps of the Funny Bone, perfect for building a full evening around the show. Ybor City Wine Bar sits less than 100 meters away on East 7th Avenue, offering a relaxed pre-show atmosphere for wine and small plates. Rasoi Indian Cuisine brings authentic flavors to East 8th Avenue with outdoor seating that catches the evening breeze. After the show lets out, The Castle on North 16th Street keeps the night going with its bar scene just 78 meters from the venue. Crowbar on North 17th Street offers live music for those wanting to extend the entertainment, while Ybor City Tap House provides a more laid-back option for post-show drinks. The district's walkability means hopping between spots takes minutes rather than requiring another drive.