SKOKIE, IL — The historic Skokie Theater will celebrate its grand reopening under new management with its first show, "I'm Not A Comedian… I'm Lenny Bruce."
The limited engagement show is written and performed by General Hospital star Ronnie Marmo and directed by Criminal Minds star Joe Mantegna. The three shows are scheduled for Oct. 8, 9 and 10 at the downtown Skokie venue.
"We're thrilled to be part of this very special occasion, and it's a limited engagement performances. We hope you'll come out, celebrate the grand opening, and experience, 'I'm Not A Comedian… I'm Lenny Bruce,'" Mantegna said.
The show is described as a one-man theatrical production about Lenny Bruce. It tells the story of "one of America's most groundbreaking and controversial performers" and "goes beyond the legend to reveal the complicated man behind it." The production is returning to the Chicagoland area after runs at the Royal George, Venus Cabaret @ Mercury Theater, Biograph Theater and North Shore Center for the Performing Arts.
"I'm Not A Comedian… I'm Lenny Bruce" has been performed nearly 500 times across the country, including extended runs in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. The announcement describes the show as a "funny, provocative, heartbreaking, and remarkably relevant" show that focuses on Bruce as a performer who fought for free speech.
"As we celebrate the Grand Opening of the newly revitalized The Skokie, bringing this powerful production to downtown Skokie is a true privilege. Starring the phenomenal Ronnie Marmo, this show is a profound look at a comedy icon who fought fearlessly for free speech. Thank you, Joe Mantegna, for your incredible artistic leadership and for supporting live theater in our community. We cannot wait to welcome everyone for an unforgettable weekend," the owners of the Skokie Theater said.
Tickets are on sale in two tiers. General admission tickets are $79. VIP tickets are $99 and include a post-show meet-and-greet with Marmo, who is identified as the writer and star of the production, along with early entry and preferred seating in the first two rows or the front row of the rear seating section.
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