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Avenel Performing Arts Center presents Rich Francese's Italian American Comedy All Stars on Saturday

Published by New Jersey Stage

originally published: 09/23/2026

(AVENEL, NJ) -- Avenel Performing Arts Center presents Rich Francese’s Italian American Comedy All Stars on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 8:00pm. This is a fast paced, unpredictable, and hysterically funny show. Featuring the best Italian American comedians in the country! 

Let’s do it Italian Style! Funny how? Rich will show you. This former staff writer for SNL is a regular at the prestigious Gotham Comedy Club in NYC, and the world famous Comedy Cellar in NYC, as well as having made over 50 appearances at the Borgata Hotel and Casino. He has also performed at the prestigious Montreal Comedy Festival, appeared in national commercials, guest starred on Law & Order, and recently released his comedy special, “The Best Comedy Special Ever” with DryBar Comedy.

Joining Rich for this unforgettable evening are two incredible Italian American comedians: South Philly Steve and Eric Tartaglione.

Tickets range from $49.55 - $54.50 and are available for purchase online. The venue is located at 150 Avenel Street in Avenel, New Jersey.

Join them for a night of big laughs, unforgettable stories, and the best of Italian American comedy! It’s comedy done Italian style!





 

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South Philly Steve brings his larger-than-life personality and hilarious storytelling straight from the streets of South Philly. With countless television appearances, including the legendary Tonight Show, Steve is also an award-winning playwright and author of three books, including his latest release, “Ya Gotta Wanna.” Get ready for unforgettable stories about his Italian grandmother, South Philly characters, and the experiences that made him a comedy favorite.

Eric Tartaglione is a high-energy performer known for his rapid-fire laughs and relatable humor. A national headliner, Eric shares hilarious stories about his Italian upbringing and the everyday challenges of life. He is also a multi-talented writer and actor, co-writing and starring in the award-winning Italian American themed play, “Shut Up, Sit Down, and Eat!”

The Avenel Performing Arts Center (APAC) is a multi-disciplinary performing arts center located in Avenel, New Jersey. Funded by the Woodbridge Arts Alliance, The APAC promises to energize Avenel and surrounding communities by programming exceptional, professional theatre, music, comedy, dance and more.




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Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) - Main Stage
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Dolph Lundgren In Conversation

Thursday, September 24, 2026 @ 7:00pm
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46 Washington Ave, Carteret, NJ

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Friday, September 25, 2026 @ 7:30pm

State Theatre New Jersey
15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ

“A JOYFUL, EBULLIENT ANTIDOTE TO REALITY!” — Rolling Stone 

CLICK HERE to view all remaining performances.


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Pictured: Ailey II’s Adanna Smalls and Eric J. Vidaña. Photo by Nir Arieli.

 

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(ASBURY PARK, NJ) -- The Ugly Pancake Comedy Festival is back at The Jersey Shore for the 4th time! Ugly Pancake's Joey Borzotta and Angelo Gingerelli have been bringing the best in stand-up comedy to The Jersey Shore since 2021 and they are celebrating their five year anniversary with their biggest festival yet.

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Gateway Playhouse presents "9 to 5: The Musical"

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StageWorks Theatre Group presents "Lizzie"

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Go On a Bilingual Summertime Adventure with Musician / Author Lucky Diaz on September 24th

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The Newark Culture Club presents Ha! or Nah!: A Joke Lab on September 24th

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