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New York Comedy Festival, Day 1
With Louis C.K., Jon Stewart and Bruce Springsteen (?!?)
Louis C.K. (Photo: blogs.suntimes.com)
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With all due respect to last night’s screening of Due Date, today is the official beginning of the New York Comedy Festival, featuring many of the biggest names in comics (including the man who I think is the biggest name in comedy right now). Here’s what on the schedule for November 3 (for more information, please click here):
Comics to Watch
Carolines on Broadway, 7 p.m.
A live stand-up show featuring the best up-and-coming young comedians from across the country…showcasing a wide range of diversely talented young comedians—the very best talent making the rounds on the national scene. The comedians featured on “Comics to Watch” will be selected by the festival organizers and Comedy Central, and chosen for their unique strengths in writing, delivery and stage persona.
Lewis Black in Conversation with Bill Scheft
Barnes & Noble Union Square, 7:30 p.m.
The comedian discusses his latest humor book, I’m Dreaming of a Black Christmas, in an on-stage interview.
Louie: A Conversation with Louis C.K.
The Paley Center, 7:30 p.m.
A rare glimpse into the mind of comedy genius Louis CK, creator, producer and star of the FX’s hit series Louie. Sirius XM’s Ron Bennington moderates a lively and insightful discussion that will feature clips from Louie and a questions-and-answers session with the audience. A must see for anyone lucky enough to get a ticket.
Best of New York Sketch
UCB Theatre, 8 p.m.
The best sketch comedy groups in the best city in the world present their best sketches for the enjoyment of the best audience possible. See it so you can tell people, “It was the best!” Starring the Franco and Billy Show, the Harvard Sailing Team and Paul Downs.
Stand Up for Heroes
Beacon Theatre, 8 p.m.
A Jon Stewart-hosted benefit for the Bob Woodruff Foundation, featuring Tony Bennett, Jerry Seinfeld, Bill Burr, the Max Weinberg Band, Joel McHale, the 4 Troops and surprise guests. There will also be a special performance by Bruce Springsteen.
Jokes.com Live
Carolines on Broadway, 9:30 p.m.
For the first time ever, enjoy the New York Comedy Festival outside of the Big Apple. Watch as the country’s funniest stand-up comedians bring their A Game for a hilarious night of comedy at the New York Comedy Festival. In addition, get a rare behind-the-scenes peek inside the greenroom at Carolines on Broadway, as remote cameras follow performers and capture their hilarious pre-show antics backstage. For more information, click here. Hosted by Bobby Lee (Mad TV) and featuring Joe Mande, Kurt Metzger, Morgan Murphy and Donnell Rawlings.
The UCBT Improv Allstars
UCB Theatre, 9:30 p.m.
Some of the finest and most experienced improvisers from the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre perform hilarious improvised scenes for you. These performers are the “next wave” of comedy superstars from the theatre that brought you Amy Poehler, Horatio Sanz, Rob Corddry (Children’s Hospital), Ed Helms (The Office), Donald Glover (Community) Paul Scheer & Rob Huebel (Human Giant) and many more. Starring Neil Casey, Chelsea Clarke, Jon Gabrus, Brandon Gardner, Fran Gillespie, Anthony King, Molly Lloyd and Gavin Speiller.
Best of Whiplash
UCB Theatre, 11 p.m.
New York City’s hottest alternative stand-up comics come together for this special New York Comedy Festival performance of the UCB Theatre’s weekly showcase.