Westfield Resident Brings Stand-Up Comedy Series to Garwood

Max Ryvkin noticed something missing in Westfield: a comedy club within a half-hour drive. The town has more than a dozen pizza shops, but no place where people gather to laugh.

"People love comedy as much as they love pizza," the Westfield resident said. "That gap is what motivates me."

That observation led Ryvkin to create Curtains Up Comedy, a local stand-up series that has been staging shows at Crossroads in Garwood. The series held two shows earlier this year. An April 15, 2026 "tax relief" lineup featured headliner Aaron Berg. A May 10, 2026 "ladies of comedy" night featured Carmen Lagala. Tickets for both shows were $22 each.

Summer brings a slowdown in programming, but Curtains Up returns on September 16, 2026 at Crossroads in Garwood. That show features Ryvkin and Becky Veduccio, with Mike Marino headlining. The September show will raise money for a scholarship fund for Greater Westfield UNICO.

In December, Curtains Up is returning for its fifth year doing a benefit show for the Union County Torah Center-Chabad of Westfield.

"Any good cause that supports the community is something comedians are always eager to be part of," Ryvkin said. "To me, this initiative means contributing to the place I live in a way that feels meaningful, creating local entertainment, supporting local causes and bringing people together through laughter."

Ryvkin's stated goal is to build a monthly show with a high-quality lineup in Westfield or a neighboring town. Beyond the ticketed shows, he also does private stand-up for personal celebrations. "These smaller, more intimate settings give you the chance to learn about the people you'll be performing for and really connect with them in a personal way," he said.

Upcoming shows are announced at curtainsupcomedy.com and on Instagram at @curtainsupcomedy.

Find more Westfield events, arts coverage, and community news on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What is Curtains Up Comedy?
A: Curtains Up Comedy is a local stand-up comedy series created by Westfield resident Max Ryvkin. The series stages shows at Crossroads in Garwood and features professional comedians and community benefit performances.

Q: Why did Max Ryvkin start Curtains Up Comedy?
A: Ryvkin noticed that Westfield, despite having many restaurants and entertainment options, lacked a comedy club within a reasonable distance. He created the series to fill that gap and bring professional-level stand-up entertainment to the community.

Q: What shows has Curtains Up Comedy held?
A: The series has held shows in April 2026 (featuring Aaron Berg) and May 2026 (featuring Carmen Lagala). An upcoming show is scheduled for September 16, 2026 at Crossroads in Garwood, featuring Mike Marino as headliner.

Q: When is the next Curtains Up Comedy show?
A: The next show is scheduled for September 16, 2026 at Crossroads in Garwood. The show features Ryvkin and Becky Veduccio, with Mike Marino headlining. Tickets are available; check curtainsupcomedy.com for details and pricing.

Q: What is the September 16 show raising money for?
A: The September 16 show will raise money for a scholarship fund for Greater Westfield UNICO, a community service organization.

Q: Does Curtains Up Comedy do benefit shows?
A: Yes. The series regularly features benefit performances. In December, Curtains Up will hold its fifth annual benefit show for the Union County Torah Center-Chabad of Westfield.

Q: How can I book Max Ryvkin for a private event?
A: Ryvkin offers stand-up comedy for personal celebrations and intimate events. For inquiries about private performances, contact him through curtainsupcomedy.com or @curtainsupcomedy on Instagram.

Q: What is Max Ryvkin's goal for Curtains Up Comedy?
A: Ryvkin's goal is to build a monthly stand-up show with a high-quality lineup in Westfield or a neighboring town, creating a consistent entertainment venue for the community.

Q: Where can I find more information about upcoming shows?
A: Upcoming shows and announcements are posted at curtainsupcomedy.com and on Instagram at @curtainsupcomedy. Union County Life also covers Westfield arts and entertainment events at unioncountylife.com.