LENNY BRUCE: How to Talk Dirty and Influence People—A Benefit for The Lenny Bruce Memorial Foundation

• Performing Arts

General Admission $20

On the 50th anniversary of his death, we celebrate his life.

A Benefit for The Lenny Bruce Memorial Foundation

Critic Ralph Gleason said, “So many taboos have been lifted and so many comics have rushed through the doors Lenny Bruce opened. He utterly changed the world of comedy.” Lenny died August 3, 1966 at the age of 40, and 50 years later, NYSEC pays tribute to the enduring legacy of this brilliantly funny, profound and controversial performer.

The evening will feature rarely screened footage of Lenny Bruce performances, as well as the classic short film, “Thank You Masked Man”. Following the screening, comedian Scott Blakeman, a NYSEC favorite who has been called “The top political comedian working in New York today”, hosts a roundtable with luminaries from the worlds of entertainment and the media to discuss the life and comedy of Lenny Bruce. Panelists include Kliph Nesteroff, author of the acclaimed new book The Comedians, and Anne Klaeysen, the Leader of the NYSEC. Additional guests to be announced.

100% of the net proceeds will go to The Lenny Bruce Memorial Foundation, which provides scholarships and support with educational tools, skills and ongoing encouragement designed to fulfill a path of recovery and sobriety for men and women who suffer from alcohol and drug abuse issues.

This program is co-sponsored by the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, NY.

The National Comedy Center honors the craft of comedy and its legendary contributors with its interactive exhibit experience, celebrates the best of contemporary comedy with its programming, and cultivates the comedic arts with professional development and support for artists.The organization is the expansion of the Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Center for Comedy, and fulfills its mission to enrich the world through the healing power of laughter with its commitment to the celebration of the comedic arts. The National Comedy Center produces the annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival each August. Headlining this year’s festival is Comedy Central’s The Daily Show host Trevor Noah, Lewis Black, and Brian Regan. For schedule and ticket information please visit http://www.lucycomedyfest.com/
The New York Society for Ethical Culture is a humanist community dedicated to ethical relationships, social justice, and environmental stewardship. Entry to our 100-year-old building and meeting rooms is available for most wheelchair users with prior arrangements. Please call ahead (212-874-5210 x 107) for setup of our portable system and plan to arrive one hour before start time.