Jerry Seinfeld is back on the road beginning Jan. 17 after taking a brief holiday respite. He is co-billing some dates with Jim Gaffigan while other performances, including those in Florida, are solo shows.
Mr. Seinfeld's trip through the Sunshine State takes him to Fort Myers on Jan. 31 at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall for two shows with start times of 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
"Jerry's one of the biggest, thrilled to have him here at the hall, to have two performances," Tim Hardy, the director of marketing for the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, said in a recent phone interview.
Born Jerome Allen Seinfeld in Brooklyn, New York, the soon-to-be 71-year-old has spent his career mastering many mediums.
From his first stand-up gig, an early ‘70s open mic night at an improv club in Manhattan, through television, books, and film, he amassed an estimated net worth that inches past a billion dollars.
For many, dollars are a measure of success in the entertainment world. However, an appreciation for work accomplished is also a sign that one's work has made a lasting impression. To that end, Mr. Seinfeld frequently lands on top 10 lists of stand-up comics, as he does for his television show Seinfeld and as an author.
Appreciation also comes from those within the industry.
"He is a true comic genius and professional," Actor Roger Rignack replied via social media. "When I did stand-up out here (California) for a few years, he was an inspiration on writing & editing material as well as working on my delivery."
Across the country in the Daytona Beach, Florida area, Anthony Erekat, a newcomer to stand-up comedy, also holds a deep appreciation for Mr. Seinfeld. He noted the 20-time Emmy-nominated comedian's impact on the comedy scene, Mr. Seinfeld's writing skills, and how "all new comedians can learn something" from him.
On the morning of Jan.19, there were 17 tickets remaining through the Barbara B. Mann website, ranging from $75.50 to $900. On the secondary market, StubHub, seats to see Mr. Seinfeld begin at $145 for balcony ducats and reach a price point of $2,205, which grants you entry to mezzanine seating. There are orchestra seats for approximately a third the mezzanine asking price.
"Mr. Seinfeld has too much trouble selling tickets," Mr. Hardy joked. He said there wasn't much of a need for the ad plan his colleagues and the promoter, JS Touring, had put together as the word spread via social media, leading to fast-paced ticket sales.
The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall offers comedy shows and a whole lot more. "There's a plethora of types of performances and engagements that we have,” Mr. Hardy informed. "We're probably most known for our Fifth Third Bank Broadway Series, which encapsulates six national touring, world-class Broadway musicals… it's a stellar season this year."
Rivaling the top-notch Broadway series are limited engagement shows such as the recent run of Jersey Boys. It is also the place for concerts of all genres.
Naturally, there are concessions and full-service bars within the venue. However, there are also plenty of restaurants to choose from in the area if one is interested in dining before the show.
Less than a half-mile away is the highly-rated University Grill. The restaurant prides itself on "fresh seafood, prime steaks, and hand-crafted martinis," the website reads. It offers an early dining menu, allowing for optimal time to relax and savor your evening. A recent early dining menu featured chicken, seafood and eggplant.
Just a little further away is the upscale Harolds Restaurant, boasting a large wine menu and creative American cuisine. Harold's checks in with five-star reviews, as does the budget-friendly Heidie's German Restaurant.
Back at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, perks galore come raining down for patrons who join the President's Club. "It gives you access to a private VIP lounge and bartender, private restroom facilities, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and snacks," Mr. Hardy explained.
Check the Barbara B. Mann website for more advantages to becoming a President's Club member.
The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall is located on the Florida Southwestern State College campus in Fort Myers. Planning is underway for their 40th-anniversary celebration in 2026.
If you can't make Mr. Seinfeld's Fort Myers gigs, check the Hard Rock Live in Hollywood or the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando.
Mr. Seinfeld was unavailable for comment.
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