Gary Gulman is back, and he’s dragging his childhood—awkward moments, parental missteps, and all—onto the stage for your amusement. On Nov. 14 and 15, Ensemble Arts Philly presents 'Gary Gulman: Grandiloquent,' a one-man show that proves growing up awkward doesn’t have to be boring… it can be hilarious.
Known for his HBO Max specials and many television appearances as a comedian and actor, Gulman’s live show shares how he learned to use humor, reading, and writing to cope with the consequences of his parents' blunders.
“'Grandiloquent' is heartbreakingly honest and refreshingly candid, walking audiences back 50 years through Gary Gulman’s childhood traumas and triumphs,” said Ensemble Arts Philly's Frances Egler. “We’re excited to present this off-Broadway hit in our intimate Perelman Theater inside the Kimmel Center, a wonderful home to many of our speaker, comedy, dance, and educational presentations.”
In January 2025, Gulman made his off-Broadway debut with a five-week sold-out run of 'Grandiloquent' at The Lucille Lortel Theatre, directed by Tony Award winner Moritz von Stuelpnagel and produced by Mike & Carlee Productions ('Oh, Mary!'). He has released five television specials, including 'Born on 3rd Base' for HBO Max, and 'The Great Depresh', an inspiring and hilarious look at mental illness. In 2019, he appeared in the international blockbuster 'Joker,' and later co-starred with Amy Schumer in the Hulu series 'Life & Beth.'
As a writer, Gulman's memoir, 'Misfit: Growing Up Awkward in the '80s' (released in September 2023) focused on his life from kindergarten through 12th grade. Schumer called the book "laugh out loud funny and heartfelt,” while MacArthur Fellowship recipient Adrian Nicole LeBlanc found it "exquisite, love-affirming and generous."
Showtimes for 'Gary Gulman: Grandiloquent’ are Friday, Nov. 14, at 7 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 15, at 5 and 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at ensembleartsphilly.org, by calling 215-893-1999, or at the Academy of Music Box Office (240 S. Broad Street).
