Known as the “King of the Rant,” acerbic comedian Lewis Black comes to the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center on Sunday, October 15, at 8 p.m. as part of his “Off the Rails” tour.
Black has been a staple of the comedy scene for nearly four decades with his sharp wit, fiery rants and unique brand of satirical humor. Born August 30, 1948, in Washington, D.C., Black’s comedic journey began in the 1980s when he started performing stand-up comedy in New York City, inspired by the likes of George Carlin, Lenny Bruce and Richard Pryor among others.
He rose to prominence through his frequent appearances on “The Daily Show With Jon Stewart,” where he became the resident “Back in Black” commentator, offering scathing and hilarious commentary on current events. His distinctive comedy style is characterized by his passionate, often enraged delivery, punctuated by emphatic gestures and facial expressions that perfectly convey his frustration with the absurdities of the world.
With sold-out shows across the globe and over 400 live streaming shows under his belt, Lewis is one of the most successful stand-up comedians of our time. His talents extend beyond the stage with bestselling books, multiple Grammy awards, and even a voiceover in Pixar’s Academy Award-winning film “Inside Out.” He’s also dedicated to giving back through his work with charitable organizations and support of U.S. troops.
He has released several notable comedy specials, cementing his status as a comedy legend. He has earned two Grammy Awards for Best Comedy Album, and his other specials, including “Red, White & Screwed” (2006), “Stark Raving Black” (2009) and “In God We Rust” (2012), continue to resonate with audiences due to his ability to tap into the collective frustration of modern life and politics. Lewis Black’s comedy is a cathartic release for many, offering a humorous and relatable perspective on the chaos of the world, making him a stalwart figure in the world of stand-up comedy.
Tickets for Lewis Black’s show are $151 to $181 at whbpac.org, 631-288-1500, or at the WHBPAC box office at 76 Main Street, Westhampton Beach.