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NJPAC Announces 3 Comedy Shows

Published by New Jersey Stage

originally published: 06/02/2021


(NEWARK, NJ) -- New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) has announced new comedy shows for Chris Distefano, Kathleen Madigan, and Tom Papa.  All three comedians will have two shows a night.

Chris Distefano has two shows on Saturday, November 27, 2021 at 8:00pm and 10:00pm. Distefano is taking over the comedy world, one laugh at a time. Along with comedy buddy Yannis Pappas, he created the gut-busting Bay Ridge Boys web series and History Hyenas podcast. With his hilarious POV and growing fan base, Chris quickly caught Comedy Central’s eye—and now he’s the network’s rising star. He hosts the weekly series Stupid Questions with Chris Distefano, premiered a new standup special (Size 38 Waist), and has another special AND an animated series in the works. 

Kathleen Madigan has two shows on Friday, December 10, 2021 at 7:00pm and 9:30pm. When she takes the stage, you’re in hilarious hands. She’s no nonsense, no holds barred, and “no filler, all killer.” The Chicago Tribune says she’s “all but perfected the art of crafting and delivering a perfect joke”—no surprise for a road warrior who’s played to sold-out crowds across the country for nearly 30 years. You’ve seen her on every late night show ever, along with her Netflix special “Bothering Jesus” and Jerry Seinfeld’s “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.” 

Tom Papa has 2 shows on Saturday, January 15, 2022 at 7:00pm and 9:30pm.With more than 20 years as a stand-up comic, Tom Papa is one of the top comedic voices in the country (and one of New Jersey’s own). You’ve seen him practically everywhere on your favorite podcasts (Live From HereWait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!, Come to PapaThe Joe Rogan Experience) and late-night shows (Colbert, Conan, Kimmel, Leno, Letterman…). His most recent standup special, You’re Doing Great, was filmed at NJPAC in 2019. Now, Tom’s back with his new Family Reunion Tour. Get your family and friends together for a much-needed night of laughs.

New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located at One Center Street in downtown Newark, has the most diverse programming and audience of any performing arts center in the country, and is the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey – where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the state’s and the world’s best artists while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted more than 9 million visitors (including over 1.7 million children and families) since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents.




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EVENT PREVIEWS

(NEWARK, NJ) -- Eric D'Alessandro, the viral comedy sensation, will return to New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 8:00pm. This promises to be an evening filled with laughter, energy, and irresistible charm, as D’Alessandro brings his distinct comedic perspective to one of New Jersey’s premier venues.
Debonair Music Hall presents Kevin Farley on June 19th

Debonair Music Hall presents Kevin Farley on June 19th

(TEANECK, NJ) -- Debonair Music Hall presents comedian Kevin Farley on Friday, June 19, 2026 at 7:00pm. Known for his bold delivery, sharp timing, and fearless physical comedy, Farley delivers a fast-paced show packed with relatable observations, larger-than-life storytelling, and crowd-driven moments that keep audiences laughing from start to finish.

bergenPAC presents Tracy Morgan on June 19th

(ENGLEWOOD, NJ) -- Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC) presents comedian Tracy Morgan on Friday, June 19, 2026 at 8:00pm. Tracy is one of the most well-respected comedians and actors in his field. He currently stars in the tv show CRUTCH.
bergenPAC presents comedian Tim Dillon on June 20th

bergenPAC presents comedian Tim Dillon on June 20th

(ENGLEWOOD, NJ) -- Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC) presents comedian Tim Dillon on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 8:00pm. Tim is a stand-up comedian, writer, and actor known for his no-holds-barred humor and incisive social commentary.

Punkie Johnson (SNL) to Headline LGBTQ Comedy Show at Newark Culture Club

(NEWARK, NJ) -- Comedian, writer, and actor Punkie Johnson is known for her hilarious work as a former cast member on Saturday Night Live. When Johnson joined SNL in its 45th season, she made history as the first out Black lesbian cast member and became a featured player the following season. She will be headlining a lineup of LGBTQ comedians at Newark Culture Club on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 9:00pm.
Paris Sashay to Headline LGBTQ Comedy Show and Afterparty at Newark Culture Club

Paris Sashay to Headline LGBTQ Comedy Show and Afterparty at Newark Culture Club

(NEWARK, NJ) -- Comedian, writer, and actor Paris Sashay, known from her appearances on Comedy Central, Pause on HBO Max, and BET 50 Central, and her comedy special 'Unprotected Sets on EPIX,' will headline a lineup of LGBTQ comedians at Newark Culture Club on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 9:00pm.
NJPAC presents Earthquake

NJPAC presents Earthquake's Father's Day Comedy Show with Sheryl Underwood, Mr. Bishop, D'Lai, Junior, TK Kirkland, and Donnell Rawlings

(NEWARK, NJ) -- Get ready to laugh out loud as Earthquake, the iconic comedian known for his electrifying stage presence, brings his annual Father's Day Comedy Show to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) on Sunday, June 21, 2026 at 7:00pm. This special event promises a night of nonstop humor with Earthquake at the helm, joined by a stellar lineup of comedic talent and hosted by the incomparable Sheryl Underwood.

Newark Culture Club presents Ha! or Nah!: A Joke Lab! on June 25th

(NEWARK, NJ) -- Lauren LoGiudice brings her innovative comedy showcase to Newark! On Thursday, June 25, 2026, Newark Culture Club presents Ha! or Nah!: A Joke Lab! Showtime is 7:00pm.

UCPAC presents comedian Eddie B. "If These Classroom Walls Could Talk"

(RAHWAY,NJ) -- By popular demand, America's favorite teacher comedian Eddie B. returns to the main stage at Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) with his "If These Classroom Walls Could Talk" tour on Friday, June 26, 2026. Showtime is 8:00pm.
NJPAC presents comedian Iliza Shlesinger on June 27th

NJPAC presents comedian Iliza Shlesinger on June 27th

(NEWARK, NJ) -- Stand-up sensation Iliza Shlesinger brings her acclaimed comedy tour to Prudential Hall at New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at 8:00pm. With seven stand-up specials — including her latest Amazon Prime hit, A Different Animal, and six Netflix specials — Iliza has established herself as one of the most prolific and fearless comedians working today.

 

FEATURED EVENTS


Punkie Johnson (SNL) to Headline LGBTQ Comedy Show

Saturday, June 20, 2026 @ 9:00pm
Newark Culture Club
Newark, NJ


LGBTQ Comedy Show with Paris Sashay & After Party

Saturday, June 20, 2026 @ 9:00pm
Newark Culture Club
Newark, NJ


Magic Entertainment presents Gaurav Gupta LIVE

Monday, June 22, 2026 @ 8:00pm
New Brunswick Performing Arts Center (NBPAC)
New Brunswick, NJ


Magic Entertainment presents Gaurav Gupta LIVE

Tuesday, June 23, 2026 @ 8:00pm
New Brunswick Performing Arts Center (NBPAC)
New Brunswick, NJ


Eddie B – If These Classroom Walls Could Talk Tour

Friday, June 26, 2026 @ 8:00pm
Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) - Main Stage
Rahway, NJ



 

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