Fresh faces and famous old friends bring smiles to the Strip

As Las Vegas falls into a chilly few months, some of the country’s top comedians are warming up the city’s winter venues with new zingers and routines.

Comedian Jeff Dunham is now calling the town home with the announcement of his residency, “Jeff Dunham: Not Playing with a Full Deck,” at Planet Hollywood. Joining him on stage will be his famed group of sidekicks — Walter the grumpy retiree, the manic purple creature Peanut, Peanut’s own ventriloquist dummy, Little Jeff, and many others.

“After being on the road for 28 years, it will be a welcomed pleasure to anchor my show in a permanent location in Las Vegas,” Dunham said in a recent press release. “I’m looking forward to welcoming our fans from all around the world in our new home.”

Dunham is scheduled for six shows a week Wednesday through Sunday, Nov. 28 to May 31. Seats are $72 plus taxes and fees.

Also headlining, Rita Rudner brings her unique style of standup and epigrammatic one-liners back to Harrah’s with her show, “An Evening with Rita Rudner.”

The accomplished actress, screenwriter, best-selling author and perennial favorite is slated to perform select Wednesdays at 8:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 7 p.m. in the Harrah’s Showroom.

“I’m very excited to be returning to the Caesars Entertainment family. Right across from the street from Harrah’s is the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. With those winding escalators, I can accidentally shop forever!” Rudner joked.

Tickets for Rudner’s act are $60 and $100.

Her 90-minute show runs until Dec. 27.

Not to be upstaged by Rudner and Dunham, famed comics Lisa Lampanelli, Jeff Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy are humoring crowds on the Strip for two brief visits around the holidays as well.

Lampanelli brings her brand of insult comedy to the Sands Showroom at the Venetian on Dec. 26 and 27, while hysterical duo Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy host a weekend a few weeks before, Dec. 12 and 13 at the Axis at Planet Hollywood.

Reservations for all shows are available online through www.ticketmaster.com or in person through the box office at the venues.