Generally speaking, the Senate Subcommittee on Energy, Nuclear Proliferation and Government Processes isn't considered a major breeding ground for comedic talent. The one exception: Washington's Capitol Steps comedy troupe. The group formed in 1981 when three senatorial staffers used their spare time to write songs parodying current events, which they performed at Christmas parties around D.C. All was going according to plan until the group learned -- while singing at Sen. Charles Percy's election night party --that the senator had lost the race, meaning most of them would be out of jobs. Then, an epiphany: Maybe they could quit their day jobs and do standup full time. The Capitol Steps have since released 25 albums and performed for three presidents; in fact, George H.W. Bush used to climb onstage and sing along. In "Weird Al" fashion, the group transforms popular songs into political satires, often drawing on their own experiences working for congress. A recent hit includes "Reverend Robertson," set to the tune of Simon & Garfunkel's "Mrs. Robinson" and poking fun at Pat Robertson's flap with Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez. Alas, behind every bottom-feeding congressional staffer is a Jon Stewart yearning to be freed.

Capitol Steps, Sat., Nov. 12, 8 p.m., $10-$22, sold out, Montgomery County Community College, Morris Road and DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell, 215-641-6518, www.mc3.edu.