Fri · Oct 2 · 3pm
I'm Not a Comedian...I'm Lenny Bruce in Rahway, NJ — October 2, 2026
Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) · 1601 Irving Street, Rahway, NJ 07065.
Ronnie Marmo steps into the shoes of Lenny Bruce for a raw, intimate exploration of the comedy legend's life, brilliance, and battles. "I'm Not a Comedian...I'm Lenny Bruce" is a one-man theatrical performance that chronicles the Jewish comedian who fought for freedom of speech all the way to the Supreme Court, facing arrests and obscenity charges along the way.
The show takes place Friday, October 2, 2026 at 8:00 p.m. at the Union County Performing Arts Center Main Stage, 1601 Irving Street, Rahway. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. Directed by Tony Award winner Joe Mantegna and performed by critically acclaimed actor Ronnie Marmo, this production brings Bruce's energy, his sharply funny social commentary, and his unwavering commitment to truth-telling back to life.
Bruce's legacy is as relevant today as it was in the 1960s. His fight for the right to speak uncomfortable truths, to challenge authority, and to defy censorship serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting voices that provoke and challenge—even when their messages make us uncomfortable. The show explores Bruce's personal pain and completely original, freestyle comedy while examining his lasting impact on today's art and politics.
With the blessing of Kitty Bruce (daughter of the late Lenny Bruce) and in partnership with the Lenny Bruce Foundation, this production has earned more than 450 performances across the country and 9 months of performances Off-Broadway. The show combines sections of Bruce's actual comedy with the narrative of his life, creating an electrifying and insightful tribute to an uncompromising artist.
This performance is intended for mature audiences only. Tickets range from $51 to $78 and are available for purchase online. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact UCPAC Box Office at 732-499-8226. Box office hours: Tues.–Wed. 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Thurs.–Fri. 12:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Sat. 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
Find more Rahway arts events, theater coverage, and community news on Union County Life.
Photo Credit: New Jersey
FAQ:
Q: When is "I'm Not a Comedian...I'm Lenny Bruce" and what time does it start?
A: The performance is on Friday, October 2, 2026 at 8:00 p.m. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. at UCPAC Main Stage, 1601 Irving Street, Rahway, NJ 07065.
Q: Who stars in and directs this theatrical performance?
A: Critically acclaimed actor Ronnie Marmo writes and performs the one-man show. Tony Award winner Joe Mantegna directs. The production has the blessing of Kitty Bruce (Lenny Bruce's daughter) and the Lenny Bruce Foundation.
Q: What is the show about?
A: The show chronicles Lenny Bruce's life, his fight for freedom of speech, his battles with censorship and obscenity charges, and his lasting legacy as a social commentator and artist. The performance includes sections of Bruce's actual comedy alongside his life story.
Q: How much are tickets and how do I buy them?
A: Tickets range from $51 to $78 and are available for purchase online through UCPAC or by calling the box office at 732-499-8226. Box office hours are Tues.–Wed. 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Thurs.–Fri. 12:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Sat. 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
Q: Who should attend this show?
A: This performance is intended for mature audiences only. It explores Bruce's life, comedy, and freedom of speech legacy, making it appropriate for adults interested in comedy history, theater, social commentary, and artistic freedom. For more arts and cultural events in Rahway, visit Union County Life.
