Western New York is set to become the epicenter of the comedic world this August. The National Comedy Center in Jamestown has officially announced its annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival lineup, securing industry titans Jerry Seinfeld, Bert Kreischer, and Seth Meyers for a four-day celebration of the craft.
As a cornerstone of the Chautauqua County cultural landscape, this festival continues to bolster the region’s reputation as a premier destination for world-class entertainment. For residents across the Buffalo-Niagara corridor, the event offers a rare opportunity to see three distinct generations of comedy royalty within a single weekend.
2020 Festival Headliners and Schedule
The festival’s programming is anchored by performances at the Northwest Arena, providing a high-capacity venue for the anticipated crowds. Below is the current schedule for the mainstage events:
| Date | Performer / Event | Time | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday, August 6 | Jerry Seinfeld | 7:00 p.m. | Northwest Arena |
| Friday, August 7 | Stand-Up Showcase | 7:00 p.m. | Reg Lenna Center for The Arts |
| Saturday, August 8 | Bert Kreischer (Show 1) | 7:00 p.m. | Northwest Arena |
| Saturday, August 8 | Bert Kreischer (Show 2) | 9:30 p.m. | Northwest Arena |
| Sunday, August 9 | Seth Meyers | 5:00 p.m. | Northwest Arena |
A Hub for the Comedic Arts
The National Comedy Center serves as more than just a venue; it is the United States’ formal museum and national archive dedicated to comedy. This year’s festival highlights the institution’s mission to bridge the gap between comedy’s rich history and its vibrant future.
“The National Comedy Center’s museum and archive were established to celebrate the art form’s distinct voices and contributions throughout time,” said Executive Director Journey Gunderson. “This year’s festival brings together artists who represent distinct approaches to the craft, offering audiences a unique opportunity to experience live comedy while connecting it to the larger story preserved here in Jamestown.”
Ticket Information and Availability
Due to the high profile of this year’s headliners, organizers expect tickets to move quickly. Lake Erie Times readers looking to attend should note the tiered release schedule. Pre-sale opportunities for National Comedy Center festival tickets begin on Monday, April 27. Sales will open to the general public on Friday, May 1.
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