Pokémon on a Mission

He may look all innocent with his baby face, puppy-dog eyes, and angelic grin. Much more huggable than, say, Denis Leary. After all, just how threatening can a giggly guy who goes by the nickname “Picachu” and proclaims, “I’m not fat . . . I’m fluffy,” be? You’ll find out when Gabriel Iglesias opens his mouth and lets fly with highly animated, lightning-quick narratives that feature all manner of voices and sound effects. From his passion for food to subtle social observations, Iglesias’ material and stage presence are unexpected and refreshing, and audiences never see it coming. The comedian could almost be described as stealthy if he didn’t crack himself up so frequently . . . and unapologetically. Either way, when it comes to both clean and cutting, no one does it better.

Catch the Comedy Central, Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, and Last Comic Standing vet when he performs at the Tempe Improv.

Thu., July 31, 8 p.m.; Fri., Aug. 1, 8 & 10 p.m.; Sat., Aug. 2, 8 & 10 p.m.; Sun., Aug. 3, 8 p.m.; Thu., Aug. 7, 8 p.m.; Fri., Aug. 8, 8 & 10 p.m.; Sat., Aug. 9, 8 & 10 p.m.; Sun., Aug. 10, 3 & 8 p.m., 2008