Home for the Holidays: A Comedy Celebration – Showcase comedy show🎄😂

This holiday season, the Williams Center Comedy Festival invites you to cozy up by the comedy Yule log for a night of laughs and festive fun with Home for the Holidays!

When: Friday 12.20 at 8:15 pm.
Where: The Den at the Williams Center
Tickets: $12

About the Show:

Feeling the magic (and chaos) of spending Christmas in your childhood bed? Shake off the holiday stress and enjoy a little comedic treat! Hosted by the delightful Mary Houlihan, this show brings you a lineup of her favorite comedy sweethearts, including the hilarious Maria Wojciechowski, Justin Williams, Gordon Baker Bone and Bethany Hall.

What to Expect:

• A night of stand-up, stories, and holiday hijinks.

• Special guests bringing their unique takes on the holiday season.

• Surprises, laughter, and a whole lot of festive cheer.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It:

Whether you’re home for the holidays or just looking for a joyful escape, Home for the Holidays is the perfect way to celebrate the season with friends, laughter, and comedy’s finest.

🎟 Get Your Tickets Now!
Secure your spot today – Link https://www.ticketweb.com/event/home-for-the-holidays-comedy-williams-center-the-den-tickets/14050523

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

This holiday comedy celebration will warm your heart and have you laughing all the way through the season!

Hatem Gabr and Lou Perez - proudly presents The Williams Center Comedy Festival “Rutherford’s Funniest”, a stand-up comedy competition like no other! This is your chance to witness the fiercest (and funniest) battle of wits as we search for the best of New Jersey comedic talent around.

When: Day 2 – Friday 12.20 at 8:00 pm.

Where: The Black box theater at the Williams Center

Tickets: $15 for participants and $5 supporters.

The Stakes Are High:

The winner of each night earns the ultimate prize: their very own headliner show - right here at the Williams Center. 

What to Expect:

A lineup of hilarious comedians bringing their best jokes to the stage.

Audience laughter levels off the charts.

An unforgettable night celebrating comedy at its finest.

Be part of the excitement as comedians bring their A-game to claim the title of Rutherford’s Funniest. Whether you're cheering from the crowd or dreaming of taking the stage yourself, this is a night you don’t want to miss!

Terms and conditions:

• Five minutes minimum time – max 10 minutes.

• Judges will decide the winner. 

• Only 10 spots are available per show.  

• The winner of each night will get very own headliner show right here at the Williams Center – They will keep 80% of the tickets sales of their own show – they are responsible to bring their opening acts if they wish. 

Sign Up

Comedians sign Up (Only 10 spots are available) – Link

Tickets – Audience and Supporters - Link https://www.ticketweb.com/event/rutherfords-finest-comedy-competition-williams-center-black-tickets/14049333

Credits:

Host: 

Lou Perez

Comedian, writer, and producer. Lou is a regular on Gutfeld!, Fox, and Open to Debate. He's the author of bestseller “That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore” and his writing appears in The Wall Street Journal, The Spectator, and Spiked magazine. Lou hosts The Lou Perez Podcast and The Wrong Take debate series. Lou was the head writer and producer of the Webby Award-winning comedy channel We the Internet TV and produces Comedy Is Murder with Free the People.

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Producers: 

Hatem Gabr – Lou Perez

Comedy Movie Night: White Chicks

This Year’s Festival theme: A Film That Couldn’t Be Made in 2024 🎬😂

As part of the Williams Center Comedy Festival, we’re celebrating classic comedy films with a twist: every night, we’re showcasing a comedy movie that couldn’t be made today! Tonight, get ready for the Hilarious movie – White Chicks, starring Marlon and Shawn Wayans.

When: Friday 12.20

Show Times: 6:30 pm and 8:00 pm

Where: Movie Theater 2 and 3 at the Williams Center

Admission: $15

About the Movie:

Two FBI agent brothers, Marcus (Marlon Wayans) and Kevin Copeland (Shawn Wayans), accidentally foil a drug bust. As punishment, they are forced to escort a pair of socialites (Anne Dudek, Rochelle Aytes) to the Hamptons, where they're going to be used as bait for a kidnapper. But when the girls realize the FBI's plan, they refuse to go. Left without options, Marcus and Kevin decide to pose as the sisters, transforming themselves from African-American men into a pair of blondes, white women.

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Don’t Miss This Classic Comedy Night!

Tickets: Link https://www.ticketweb.com/event/white-chicks-williams-center-cinema-tickets/14050473

Book Discussion – Book of the day: TBA – Free Event. 

As part of the Williams Center Comedy Festival, we’re celebrating comedy in all its forms—including the written word! Every day, we highlight a book written by a comedian, and today’s spotlight is on - Ira Spiro: Before Covid by comedian Dan Naturman.

When: Friday 12/20 at 7:30 pm.

Where: Soldato at The Williams Center. 

Admission: Free

What’s Happening?

Highlighting a book written by a comedian.

About the Book:

Ira Spiro is a stand-up comic and screenwriter who, a short time after winning an Oscar for “Best Original Screenplay” for his hit romantic comedy Jackson Taylor’s Christmas Party, slides back into near obscurity as his anxieties and complexes overwhelm his ability to capitalize on his new found fame. After a particularly disastrous stand-up performance leaves Ira wondering if he’ll ever be able to get on stage again, he is unexpectedly presented with a lucrative contract to write a memoir. Working with a ghostwriter, Ira reflects on his life as he puts his traumatic childhood experiences and complicated personal relationships into prose. As the Covid-19 pandemic sends the world into lockdown, Ira comes to understand why he unconsciously sabotaged his career and, while he was at it, pushed away the love of his life.

Tickets: Free event

Credits:

Author: 

Dan Naturman is a well known stand-up comedian who has appeared on “America’s Got Talent”, “Late Show with David Letterman”, and “The Conan O’Brien Show” and was also a regular on the HBO series “Crashing”. Dan has an undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a JD from the Fordham University School of Law, though he has never practiced. In his spare time he enjoys studying French and trying to acquire a moderate level of competence on guitar. He lives alone and has issues with close relationships.

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Producers: 

Hatem Gabr – Lou Perez 

Comedy Show Headliner: Danny Polishchuk featuring Lou Perez 🎤😂

Get ready to laugh the night away at the Williams Center Comedy Festival with a headline stand-up comedy show featuring the hilarious and multi-talented Danny Polishchuk and special guest Lou Perez!

When: Friday 12.20 at 7:15 pm 

Where: The Spring Hall theater at the Williams Center.
Tickets: $15

About Danny Polishchuk:

Hailing from Toronto, Danny is a writer, actor, comedian, filmmaker, and social media influencer who’s taken stages and screens by storm across North America. His work spans multiple mediums, earning him accolades such as:

• Canadian Comedy Award Nominee: Best Writing in a Series (2015) and Best Short Film (2016).

• Acclaimed Filmmaker: Writer and star of the hit action/comedy feature Filth City.

• Digital Success: Contributing writer for the series True Dating Stories, which was nominated for two Canadian Screen Awards in 2017.

• Comedy Festival Favorite: Performed at JFL42, NXNE, Canadian Music Week, The North Bay Comedy Festival, and more.

As a stand-up comedian, Danny’s sharp, unique brand of humor has earned him spots in major festivals, competitions, and comedy clubs across Canada, including being a two-time semi-finalist in XM Radio’s Top Comic. This year marks an exciting milestone with the release of his first stand-up album!

Featuring Lou Perez:
Joining Danny is comedian, author, and provocateur Lou Perez, known for his sharp wit and fearless takes on culture, politics, and comedy.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It:
This is your chance to see one of North America's rising comedic stars alongside a powerhouse feature act, delivering an unforgettable night of laughter and entertainment.

🎟 Reserve Your Seats Now!
Tickets are going fast - Link https://www.ticketweb.com/event/danny-polishchuk-feat-lou-perez-williams-center-spring-tickets/14049513

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Credits:

Producers: 

Hatem Gabr – Lou Perez

Comedy Show Headliner: Chris Lambert 🎤😂

Get ready to laugh the night away at the Williams Center Comedy Festival with a headline stand-up comedy show featuring the hilarious and multi-talented Danny Polishchuk and special guest Lou Perez!

When: Friday 12.20 at 7:00 pm 

Where: The Den at the Williams Center.
Tickets: $10

About Chris Lamberth:

Chris is a Comedian and Actor and has been seen in Harlem, High Maintenance, Mindhunter, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Orange Is the New Black, and the Oscar nominated film Can You Ever Forgive Me? And TONY Award-winning play The Lehman Trilogy directed by Sam Mendes.

He has shared the stage with a variety of national headliners including Bill Burr, D.L. Hughley, Craig Robinson, Marc Maron and Maria Bamford. He also hosts the Mundane Festival—a weekly show available wherever podcasts are found.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It:
This is your chance to see one of North America's rising comedic stars alongside a powerhouse feature act, delivering an unforgettable night of laughter and entertainment.

🎟 Reserve Your Seats Now!
Tickets are going fast - Link https://www.ticketweb.com/event/chris-lamberth-williams-center-the-den-tickets/14049493

Credits:

Producers: 

Hatem Gabr – Lou Perez

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

"Reel Quick Comedy”, 60-Second Comedy Shorts: A Film Festival Competition 🎥🤣

As part of the Williams Center Comedy Festival, we’re bringing you a night of quick laughs and big creativity with 60-Second Comedy Shorts! 

Think you’ve got what it takes to tell the funniest story, or a stand-up joke in under a minute? Show off your vision, directing skills, and comedic genius in this one-of-a-kind competition.

When: Day Two screening – Friday 12/20 at 6:30 pm (Submission deadline below).

Where: The movie theater at the Williams Center.
Admission: $15 per video submission.

Tickets: $5 to attend the screening of the videos – General public. 

Hosted by: Jordan Fried.

How It Works:

• Create a short film or reel that’s 60 seconds or less—the only rule is it has to be funny!

• Submit as many short films as you like to showcase your range and creativity.

• All entries will be screened on the big screen at the Williams Center for the audience to enjoy.

• Release forms, and contract terms and conditions forms, must be submitted with the films.

• All films must be submitted by 12/18/2024 5 pm ET. 

The Prize:

The funniest short film will win the coveted Williams Center Comedy Festival Award and bragging rights as the festival’s comedy - short champion!

Be Part of the Fun:

• Creators: Show off your comedic vision, directing skills, and storytelling talent. Submit as many films as you like!

• Audience Members: Come for the laughs, watch all the short films, and help celebrate the creative geniuses behind them.

Whether you’re competing or just enjoying the show, this is a hilarious, can’t-miss event for comedy lovers of all kinds

Why Enter?
This is your chance to make the crowd laugh, gain exposure, and share your comedic vision in a professional theater setting. Whether you're a budding filmmaker, a social media creator, or just love to make people laugh, this is your moment to shine.

Don’t Miss the Fun!

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Created by: 

Hatem Gabr – Lou Perez

Get Ready for Laughs at the Williams Center Comedy Festival Open Mic Night! 🎭😂

As part of the hilarious lineup for the Williams Center Comedy Festival, we’re hosting an Open Mic Night that’s all about giving rising stars and comedy enthusiasts their moment in the spotlight. Whether you're a comedy veteran or taking your first step into stand-up, this is the perfect chance to shine - or just sit back and enjoy a night of laughter!

When: Day 2 - Friday 12.20 at 6:30 pm

Where: The Black box theater at the Williams Center 

Admission: $5 for participants and supporters.

We care about giving time to all performers so (Only 12 spots available – minimum of 7 minutes but you can do less if you like)

What Makes This Open Mic Special?
We believe in giving everyone their moment, which is why only 12 spots are available - each performer gets a minimum of 7 minutes on stage (but you can do less if you’d like). This ensures every act gets the spotlight they deserve while keeping the laughs rolling all night long!

What to Expect:

A diverse lineup of comedians delivering their best (or trying out their new material).

A lively audience ready to laugh their heads off! The perfect festival vibe: fun, inclusive, and full of surprises.

Interested in performing? Sign Up - Link

Supporters and audience: Tickets – Link https://www.ticketweb.com/event/comedy-festival-open-mic-williams-center-black-tickets/14049273

Celebrate comedy, discover new talent, and be part of the fun at the Williams Center Comedy Festival. Don’t miss out—come laugh, cheer, and maybe even take the stage!

Credits:

Host: 

Joey Rosenberg - “You may have seen him on Blue Bloods and Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Producers:

Hatem Gabr/Lou Perez

Comedy Movie Night: White Chicks

This Year’s Festival theme: A Film That Couldn’t Be Made in 2024 🎬😂

As part of the Williams Center Comedy Festival, we’re celebrating classic comedy films with a twist: every night, we’re showcasing a comedy movie that couldn’t be made today! Tonight, get ready for the Hilarious movie – White Chicks, starring Marlon and Shawn Wayans.

When: Friday 12.20

Show Times: 6:30 pm and 8:00 pm

Where: Movie Theater 2 and 3 at the Williams Center

Admission: $15

About the Movie:

Two FBI agent brothers, Marcus (Marlon Wayans) and Kevin Copeland (Shawn Wayans), accidentally foil a drug bust. As punishment, they are forced to escort a pair of socialites (Anne Dudek, Rochelle Aytes) to the Hamptons, where they're going to be used as bait for a kidnapper. But when the girls realize the FBI's plan, they refuse to go. Left without options, Marcus and Kevin decide to pose as the sisters, transforming themselves from African-American men into a pair of blondes, white women.

Don’t Miss This Classic Comedy Night!

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Tickets: Link https://www.ticketweb.com/event/white-chicks-williams-center-cinema-tickets/14050463

Stand-Up Comedy Classes with Comedy Legend Rick Crom 🎭😂

Since 2010 Rick Crom has taught one of the most acclaimed Stand-up Comedy courses in the country at the Comedy Cellar in New York.  He is a comedian and Broadway, film and TV actor.

Class Description:

Stand-up Comedy Basics with Rick Crom

A talk about the writing and performance of stand-up comedy including: 

Different styles and techniques. / Joke Structure / Mistakes to avoid. 

Time permitting, students who have jokes to work on them with Rick

When: Friday 12.20.2024 (6 PM – 7 PM) and Saturday 12.21 2024 (6 PM – 7 PM) 

Choose Your Experience: Enroll for one day or go all-in with the two-day class!

Where: Spring Hall Theater at the Williams Center

Admission: $20 for one day or $35 for two days. Choose Your Experience: Enroll for one day or go all-in with the two-day class!

Why Learn from Rick Crom?

Rick’s unique skills as a comedy instructor are celebrated in the comedy world, with students often returning for more. His versatile talents span stand-up comedy stages in Las Vegas and Atlantic City, Broadway and television acting, and writing. He’s also the subject of the award-winning documentary Oh Rick, available on YouTube.

About Rick Crom:

Stand-Up Performer: Rick has performed across the U.S. and internationally, appearing at all the major comedy clubs in New York City.

TV Appearances: Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn, The Nightly Show, MTV’s Half-Hour Comedy Hour, Showtime’s Comedy Club Network, and more.

Actor: You’ve seen him on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Louie, Chappelle’s Show, Inside Amy Schumer, Divorce, House of Cards, Boardwalk Empire, Elementary, and many others.

What to Expect:

Learn the art and craft of stand-up comedy from a true master.

Whether you're a total beginner or an aspiring comedian looking to sharpen your skills, Rick’s class is perfect for all levels.

Gain insights, hone your comedic voice, and take your first step toward the stage—or just enjoy a deeper appreciation for the art of stand-up.

Don’t Miss This Exclusive Opportunity!

Spaces are limited, so sign up today to secure your spot. 

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Sign Up

To take the class sign up here – Link https://www.ticketweb.com/event/standup-comedy-class-with-comedy-williams-center-spring-tickets/14050303

Choose Your Experience: Enroll for one day or go all-in with the two-day class!

Hatem Gabr and Lou Perez - proudly presents The Williams Center Comedy Festival “Rutherford’s Funniest”, a stand-up comedy competition like no other! This is your chance to witness the fiercest (and funniest) battle of wits as we search for the best of New Jersey comedic talent around.

When: Day 1 – Thursday 12.19 at 8:00. 

Where: The Black box theater at the Williams Center

Tickets: $15 for participants and $5 supporters.

The Stakes Are High:

The winner of each night earns the ultimate prize: their very own headliner show - right here at the Williams Center. 

What to Expect:

A lineup of hilarious comedians bringing their best jokes to the stage.

Audience laughter levels off the charts.

An unforgettable night celebrating comedy at its finest.

Be part of the excitement as comedians bring their A-game to claim the title of Rutherford’s Funniest. Whether you're cheering from the crowd or dreaming of taking the stage yourself, this is a night you don’t want to miss!

Terms and conditions:

• Five Minutes minimum time – max 10 minutes.

• Judges will decide the winner. 

• Only 10 spots are available per show.  

• The winner of each night will get very own headliner show right here at the Williams Center – They will keep 80% of the tickets sales of their own show – they are responsible to bring their opening acts if they wish. 

Sign Up

Comedians sign Up (Only 10 spots are available) – Link

Tickets – Audience and Supporters - Link https://www.ticketweb.com/event/rutherfords-finest-comedy-competition-williams-center-black-tickets/14049313

Credits:

Host: 

Lou Perez

Comedian, writer, and producer. Lou is a regular on Gutfeld!, Fox, and Open to Debate. He's the author of bestseller “That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore” and his writing appears in The Wall Street Journal, The Spectator, and Spiked magazine. Lou hosts The Lou Perez Podcast and The Wrong Take debate series. Lou was the head writer and producer of the Webby Award-winning comedy channel We the Internet TV and produces Comedy Is Murder with Free the People.

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Producers: 

Hatem Gabr – Lou Perez

The Political Comedy Jam: Laugh, Think, Engage! 🎤🔥

As part of the Williams Center Comedy Festival, get ready for a night of razor-sharp wit and thought-provoking humor with The Political Comedy Jam, hosted by the quick and fearless Rob "The Fire" Bernstein and friends!

When: Thursday – 12.19 – starts at 8:00 pm
Where: The Spring Hall Theater at the Williams Center

Line Up: Robbie “The Fire” and friends/Special comedian guests – Featuring Howie Dewie and Mustaffa Mussa.
Tickets: $15

What to Expect:

NYC's political comedy specialist telling jokes on our country’s biggest problems followed by a panel addressing the wildest news stories of the week and proposing comedic solutions to issues proposed by the audience. 

• A hilarious panel discussion dissects the wildest news stories of the week.

• Audience participation keeps things fresh and interactive, with comedians brainstorming comedic solutions to issues proposed by YOU!

It’s stand-up with a twist—mixing laughter, current events, and audience engagement for a one-of-a-kind comedy experience.

Don’t Miss This Night of Insightful Laughs!

Tickets: Link https://www.ticketweb.com/event/the-political-comedy-jam-williams-center-spring-tickets/14049363

Credits:

Host: 

Robbie “The Fire” is best known for his work on the popular Part of The Problem podcast. He also Hosts the Run Your Mouth podcast and has traveled the country 5x performing on Fans’ porches for the Summer Porch Tour. Rob is an anti-trolley line advocate and has a lot to say about just about everything.

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Producers: 

Hatem Gabr – Lou Perez 

As part of the Williams Center Comedy Festival, we’re celebrating classic comedy films with a twist: every night, we’re showcasing a comedy movie that couldn’t be made today! Tonight, get ready for the uproarious and controversial hit Tropic Thunder, starring Ben Stiller, Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., and Tom Cruise.

When: Thursday 12.19 

Show Times: 6:30 pm and 7:45 pm

Where: Movie Theater 2 and 3 at the Williams Center

Admission: $15

About the Movie:

While shooting a war film, the director of Tropic Thunder tries to spice things up by dropping the lead actors into a real jungle, claiming he’s capturing their performance with hidden cameras. What follows is a wild and hilarious disaster as a group of hapless actors—including a drug-addled comedy star (Jack Black), a self-absorbed method actor (Robert Downey Jr.), and a clueless director (Ben Stiller)—unwittingly find themselves stuck in the middle of a real war zone. This sharp satire, which takes aim at Hollywood egos, absurdities, and cultural sensitivities, is as outrageous as it is funny—but it’s a movie that, in today’s climate, simply couldn’t be made.

Don’t Miss This Classic Comedy Night!

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Tickets: https://www.ticketweb.com/event/tropic-thunder-film-screening-williams-center-cinema-tickets/14050443

As part of the Williams Center Comedy Festival, we’re celebrating comedy in all its forms—including the written word! Every day, we highlight a book written by a comedian, and today’s spotlight is on Lou Perez and his bold, hilarious debut, That Joke Isn’t Funny Anymore: On the Death and Rebirth of Comedy.

When: Thursday 12/19 from 7:30 pm – 8:00 pm.

Where: Soldato at The Williams Center. 

Admission: Free

What’s Happening?

Join an engaging discussion about Lou’s book and its fearless exploration of comedy, cancel culture, and cultural taboos.

Ask Lou your questions about his writing process, comedy career, and the state of humor today.

Pick up a signed copy of That Joke Isn’t Funny Anymore!

About the Book:

Lou Perez takes on "Woke" culture—the humorless, shame-driven mindset he argues is killing comedy—and turns it into a comedian’s greatest challenge and opportunity. Through sharp, equal-opportunity mockery, Lou tackles today’s sacred cows, from anti-racism and cancel culture to sex and gender. With wit and fearless insight, this book calls for a return to laughter, creativity, and the joy of pushing boundaries.

Don’t Miss This Free Event!

Tickets: Free – Sign up Link - Walkin’s welcome
https://www.ticketweb.com/event/that-joke-isnt-funny-anymore-williams-center-soldato-tickets/14050353

Credits:

Author: 

Lou Perez - Comedian, writer, and producer. Lou hosts The Lou Perez Podcast and The Wrong Take debate series. Lou was the head writer and producer of the Webby Award-winning comedy channel We the Internet TV and produces Comedy Is Murder with Free the People.

Producers: 

Hatem Gabr – Lou Perez 

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

A weekly casual gathering in the Atrium of the 100-year old Williams Center of Rutherford, NJ. The event is centered around playing contemporary boardgames of various types. Bring a game and a friend!

Here is a list of our current boardgames: https://docs.google.com/document/d/12xLd0a7dCjyqgVpD8a_7X66ZdIAfxonv-Dr4yQx9qSc/edit?usp=sharing

As part of the Williams Center Comedy Festival, we’re celebrating classic comedy films with a twist: every night, we’re showcasing a comedy movie that couldn’t be made today! Tonight, get ready for the uproarious and controversial hit Tropic Thunder, starring Ben Stiller, Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., and Tom Cruise.

When: Thursday 12.19 

Show Times: 6:30 pm and 7:45 pm

Where: Movie Theater 2 and 3 at the Williams Center

Admission: $15

About the Movie:

While shooting a war film, the director of Tropic Thunder tries to spice things up by dropping the lead actors into a real jungle, claiming he’s capturing their performance with hidden cameras. What follows is a wild and hilarious disaster as a group of hapless actors—including a drug-addled comedy star (Jack Black), a self-absorbed method actor (Robert Downey Jr.), and a clueless director (Ben Stiller)—unwittingly find themselves stuck in the middle of a real war zone. This sharp satire, which takes aim at Hollywood egos, absurdities, and cultural sensitivities, is as outrageous as it is funny—but it’s a movie that, in today’s climate, simply couldn’t be made.

Don’t Miss This Classic Comedy Night!

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Tickets: https://www.ticketweb.com/event/tropic-thunder-film-screening-williams-center-cinema-tickets/14050433

As part of the Williams Center Comedy Festival, we’re bringing you a night of quick laughs and big creativity with 60-Second Comedy Shorts! 

Think you’ve got what it takes to tell the funniest story, or a stand-up joke in under a minute? Show off your vision, directing skills, and comedic genius in this one-of-a-kind competition.

When: Day one screening – Thursday 12/19 at 6:30 pm (Submission deadline below).

Where: The movie theater at the Williams Center.
Admission: $15 per video submission.

Tickets: $5 to attend the screening of the videos – General public. 

Hosted by: Jordan Fried 

How It Works:

• Create a short film or reel that’s 60 seconds or less—the only rule is it has to be funny!

• Submit as many short films as you like to showcase your range and creativity.

• All entries will be screened on the big screen at the Williams Center for the audience to enjoy.

• Release forms, and contract terms and conditions forms, must be submitted with the films.

• All films must be submitted by 12/18/2024 5 pm ET. 

The Prize:

The funniest short film will win the coveted Williams Center Comedy Festival Award and bragging rights as the festival’s comedy - short champion!

Be Part of the Fun:

• Creators: Show off your comedic vision, directing skills, and storytelling talent. Submit as many films as you like!

• Audience Members: Come for the laughs, watch all the short films, and help celebrate the creative geniuses behind them.

Whether you’re competing or just enjoying the show, this is a hilarious, can’t-miss event for comedy lovers of all kinds

Why Enter?
This is your chance to make the crowd laugh, gain exposure, and share your comedic vision in a professional theater setting. Whether you're a budding filmmaker, a social media creator, or just love to make people laugh, this is your moment to shine.

Don’t Miss the Fun!

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Created by: 

Hatem Gabr – Lou Perez 

Get Ready for Laughs at the Williams Center Comedy Festival Open Mic Night! 🎭😂

As part of the hilarious lineup for the Williams Center Comedy Festival, we’re hosting an Open Mic Night that’s all about giving rising stars and comedy enthusiasts their moment in the spotlight. Whether you're a comedy veteran or taking your first step into stand-up, this is the perfect chance to shine - or just sit back and enjoy a night of laughter!

When: Day 1 - Thursday, 12.19 at 6:30 pm.

Where: The Black box theater at the Williams Center 

Admission: $5 for participants and supporters.

We care about giving time to all performers so (Only 12 spots available – minimum of 7 minutes but you can do less if you like)

What Makes This Open Mic Special?
We believe in giving everyone their moment, which is why only 12 spots are available - each performer gets a minimum of 7 minutes on stage (but you can do less if you’d like). This ensures every act gets the spotlight they deserve while keeping the laughs rolling all night long!

What to Expect:

A diverse lineup of comedians delivering their best (or trying out their new material).

A lively audience ready to laugh their heads off! The perfect festival vibe: fun, inclusive, and full of surprises.

Interested in performing? Sign Up - Link

Supporters and audience: Tickets – Link https://www.ticketweb.com/event/comedy-festival-open-mic-williams-center-black-tickets/14049263

Celebrate comedy, discover new talent, and be part of the fun at the Williams Center Comedy Festival. Don’t miss out—come laugh, cheer, and maybe even take the stage!

Credits:

Host: 

Joey Rosenberg - “You may have seen him on Blue Bloods and Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”

Producers:

Hatem Gabr/Lou Perez

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Calling All Future Comedy Stars! 🎤🤣

The Williams Center Comedy Festival is excited to host a special event just for the kids: Stand-Up Comedy for Kids! Whether you’re dreaming of becoming the next Dave Chappelle or just want to share a few jokes and have a great time, this is your moment to shine on stage.

When: Thursday – 12/19 – From 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Where: The Spring Hall Theater at the Williams Center.
Admission: $5 for participant and supporters (Each participant must be a accompanied by an adult – their guardian admission is complementary)

Who Can Perform?

1. Open to aspiring comedians ages 16 and under.

2. Must be accompanied by an adult.

Performance Details:

• No minimum time—just tell us your best joke or a short story!

• Maximum time: 7 minutes per performer.

• 1st Place Winner takes home a shiny trophy and bragging rights!

Why Join?
It’s all about having fun, making people laugh, and building confidence in a supportive, exciting environment. Whether you’re testing your stand-up skills or cheering for the young comedians, this is a family-friendly event you won’t want to miss!

Sign Up

Comedians sign Up Link- 

Tickets – Audience and Supporters - Link https://www.ticketweb.com/event/little-laughs-kids-comedy-williams-center-spring-tickets/14050413

Credits:

Host: 

Lou Perez - Comedian, writer, and producer. Lou hosts The Lou Perez Podcast and The Wrong Take debate series. Lou was the head writer and producer of the Webby Award-winning comedy channel We the Internet TV and produces Comedy Is Murder with Free the People.

Producers: 

Hatem Gabr – Lou Perez 

Disclaimer: The event lineup is subject to change without notice. In the event of a cancellation, a full refund will be issued.

Join us on December 18th at the Soldato Lounge for a festive night of pop punk and emo bands! Good Damage, Joey CxP and Neveragain will be playing their original music and some covers you’ll know by heart. Come hang out! 

The Williams Center presents a weekly open-mic, $5 for spectators and participants.
Nothing is off-limits, and we encourage artists of all disciplines and ages to come and hone their craft. Poetry, spoken word, singer song-writers, comedy and more! Performers will be in the Williams Center's "Spring Hall".

*Performers, Please make sure to identify your act when you get your ticket. Time slots are five minutes per artists, so please plan your acts accordingly. Make sure to fill out THIS FORM after purchasing a ticket!

Stratospheerius & Friends Album Release party!

Join the ProgStock Family and Joe Deninzon & Stratospheerius in celebrating the release of their new album, Impostor!…and, Joe’s 50th birthday! There will be food, drink...and birthday cake!

NOTE: Doors at 6:00pm, show at 6:30pm. Buffet-style meal available for a fee, and a cash bar. Birthday cake provided for FREE!

Featuring: Joe Deninzon (violinist with Kansas), with special guests:

The Tea Club (featuring Dan McGowan, bassist with Kansas)
Randy McStine (Porcupine Tree, Steven Wilson, McStine & Minnemann)
Dave Bainbridge (Lifesigns, Strawbs, Celestial Fire, DBA, Iona)

Stratospheerius members:

Jason Gianni – drums (Ultimate Queen Celebration, Mark Wood Band)
Michelangelo Quirinale – guitar (Jane Getter Premonition, Thrilldriver)
Dan Asher – bass (Tedeschi Trucks Band, John Medeski, Southside Johnny)
Bill Hubauer – keyboards (Neal Morse Band, Crack The Sky, We Came From Space)

Streaming: If you cannot join us in-person, you can livestream the entire event! Buy your livestream ticket at StageIt.com/ProgStock!

Rich with exotic tales of slaves and kings, potions, betrayals, demons and, most of all, love and lovemaking in all its myriad forms. Mysterious and liberating, this is an exquisitely dreamlike and adult interpretation of the original folk tales.

A weekly casual gathering in the Atrium of the 100-year old Williams Center of Rutherford, NJ. The event is centered around playing contemporary boardgames of various types. Bring a game and a friend!

Here is a list of our current boardgames: https://docs.google.com/document/d/12xLd0a7dCjyqgVpD8a_7X66ZdIAfxonv-Dr4yQx9qSc/edit?usp=sharing

The Williams Center presents a weekly open-mic, $5 for spectators and participants.
Nothing is off-limits, and we encourage artists of all disciplines and ages to come and hone their craft. Poetry, spoken word, singer song-writers, comedy and more! Performers will be in the Williams Center's "Spring Hall".

*Performers, Please make sure to identify your act when you get your ticket. Time slots are five minutes per artists, so please plan your acts accordingly. Make sure to fill out THIS FORM after purchasing a ticket!

Soldato is pleased to announce a new monthly book club, taking place every second Sunday of the month at 5:30pm!

It's a forum for people who want to read & discuss literary fiction. We'll meet monthly to discuss thought provoking contemporary works and timeless classics, creating a community for readers to connect and explore great literature together.

Our curator, David Novis, is a passionate reader with a deep appreciation for art and literature. As a teacher and coach, he is passionate about creating welcoming spaces where people can connect, share ideas, and build a sense of community through meaningful conversations.

Williams Center Presents: 

'Office Hours: A Roundtable Discussion for Rounding Out Ideas'

Do you feel like you have an idea for a script / book / poem / song, and you just don't know how to get it off the ground? Or maybe you have a completed piece of work, and you simply want another person to give some honest feedback? 

We proudly present "Office Hours," an open-door, collaborative forum that helps each member work through the ideation, creation, and revisions of their latest artistic endeavor! It's a bi-weekly, two hour session where you can bring anything to the table, and you'll be met with full attention and constructive feedback.

To clarify, it is a group built on kindness, open-mindedness and timeliness — while everyone will have a chance to comment on each other's work, there will be proper guidelines and time constraints to give everyone a chance to share (more on that later). And to further clarify, you do not have to bring something for every session. Come and go as you please, and feel free to be in the room without the caveat of something you're working on.

All in all, we want this to feel like a meeting place for creatives who just want to be around other working creatives. While the focus might lean towards screenwriting or prose, we are open to all kinds of art, and this group will morph with time and experience.

Consider this your opportunity to get some work done — and let us help you get it there!

Doors at 8pm, Show at 8:30pm
Hatem Gabr presents The Next Big Thing, an All-Star Standup Comedy Show featuring some of the nation's hottest comedians.
Happening two nights a month at the Williams Center!

Boris Khaykin
Listed by Time Out NY as one of Brooklyn Comedy Festival's Biggest Stars, Boris Khaykin is a regular guest on The Comedy Cellar's Live From America Podcast. He has performed on CollegeHumor Live, warmed up audiences for The Opposition with Jordan Klepper, and appeared in Bull, The First Purge, and Amazon Prime’s Red Oaks.

Elon Altman
Winner of Season 3 of New York's Got Talent, Elon Altman is a standup comedian born and raised in New York City. A Comedy Cellar regular, Elon was a finalist in the 2021 Boston Comedy Festival, featured on AXS TV's Gotham Comedy Live, and a contributing writer for Comedy Central’s Roast of Alec Baldwin. He has also opened for Dennis Miller and Demetri Martin, and co-hosts the podcasts Billy Joel A to Z and Comics Guessing Punchlines.

Chris Lamberth
Chris Lamberth, originally from Prince George's County, MD, has shared the stage with Bill Burr, D.L. Hughley, Craig Robinson, Marc Maron, and Maria Bamford. He has performed on AXS TV's Gotham Comedy Live and 2 Dope Queens Podcast. Chris has acting credits in Harlem, High Maintenance, Mindhunter, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Orange Is the New Black, and the Oscar-nominated Can You Ever Forgive Me?. He also hosts The Mundane Festival Podcast.

Lou Perez
Lou Perez is a comedian, writer, and producer featured on Gutfeld!, Fox, and Open to Debate. Author of the bestseller That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore, Lou’s work appears in The Wall Street Journal, The Spectator, and Spiked Magazine. He hosts The Lou Perez Podcast and The Wrong Take debate series. Lou was the head writer and producer of the Webby Award-winning comedy channel We the Internet TV and produces Comedy Is Murder with Free the People.

Line-up is subject to change without notice.

AnAkA - Est. 2000. Brooklyn, New York Metal. Intense, Brutal, Uncompromising. AnAkA has continued to leave their blistering mark on world of Metal for more than two decades and count! To date, AnAkA has shared the stage with: Zakk Wylde’s Zakk Sabbath, Korn, Avenged Sevenfold, Trivium, Asking Alexandrea, Five Finger Death Punch, Doyle of The Misfits, Dave Ellefson’s Kings of Thrash, Life of Agony, JASTA, Vision of Disorder, Shadows Fall, Otep, Unearth, ill NINO, Chris Jericho’s Fozzy, Fight or Flight (ft. Disturbed), Doro, LORDI, Diamond Head and many more!

Oceans : NJ’s Pearl Jam tribute band  Antonio "Minnow" Minervini has graced the NJ metro area for the past 25 years with his energetic stage presence and crowd interaction. His previous project was the front man for the tristate area premier cover band, CRAVE. His mannerisms and feeling of capturing the essence of Pearl Jam brings you right back to the 90's grunge movement. 

Hold On, Fire is a post hardcore outfit from Montclair, NJ. Catchy choruses mixed with aggressive vocals show case a variety of influences that stem from the mid 2000s. Their energetic live show along with a creative stage set up further demonstrates that influence.

Experience

EMBLEM3 @emblemthree live in concert in an intimate acoustic setting.

Enjoy stripped-down versions of fan favorites and new songs, make song requests, and meet the band.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emblemthree 

 Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emblemthree
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@emblem3music
Twitter(X): https://x.com/emblemthree 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmblemThree