Large and Comedically in Charge

It's a natural progression when stand-ups make the transition to acting, yet no one blinks at the opposite: an actor trying his or her hand at live comedy, which can be a huge undertaking. It takes far more than presence and good timing to deliver a decent set. Thankfully, Friday and Elf star Faizon Love is more than comfortable traversing the line between screen and stand-up stage. True, he has worked with Ice Cube, Shawn Wayans, Keanu Reeves, Jon Favreau and Lindsay Lohan, but he has also appeared with Robin Harris and Earthquake; shown up on Def Comedy Jam; and released an album, Faizon Rules. Best of all, he's as tough, commanding and animated live as he is onscreen. Love headlines at the Kansas City Improv and Comedy Club (7430 Northwest 87th Street) tonight and Saturday at 7:30 and 9:45 p.m. and Sunday at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $18-$20; call 816-587-4500. Kansas City Improv
Fri., Dec. 26, 7:30 & 9:45 p.m.; Sat., Dec. 27, 7:30 & 9:45 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 28, 7 p.m., 2008