MY SON THE WAITER: A JEWISH TRAGEDY Comes to Lyceum Theatre, Now thru 7/6

Comedian and actor Brad Zimmerman has paid his dues. He waited tables for 29 years while chasing a career in acting and comedy, so waiting until his mid-50s to perform on stage seems so logical. Zimmerman will tell his hilarious, poignant and inspirational story "My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy" comes to the Lyceum Theatre at Horton Plaza beginning tonight, May 28th. Opening night for the media is Thursday, May 29, 7 pm.

Produced by the same group behind "My Mother's Italian, My Father's Jewish & I'm In Therapy," "RESPECT: A Musical Journey of Women" and "Old Jews Telling Jokes," Zimmerman's story combines his training as an actor with years on the standup comedy circuit.

This hybrid play weaves a bittersweet tale of one man's lengthy - and we do mean lengthy - struggle in New York. His send-ups on his family, career, childhood and misbegotten love life are as warm and poignant as they are hysterical.

As an added bonus, the producers are inviting any San Diego waiter or waitress tosee the show for free. Part inspiration, part promotion, their goal of getting 500 waiters to see the show can be tracked at www.500waiters.com and our Facebook page. The website and Facebook page contain details about how individuals or restaurants can apply for tickets.

West Coast audiences not familiar with Zimmerman can take it from comedy icon Joan Rivers who said, "I've had three great opening acts in my lifetime: Billy Crystal, Garry Shandling and Brad Zimmerman.

"What makes audiences connect with this story is that it's true," the 58-year-old Zimmerman said. "I really had to struggle as a waiter until I was in my mid-50s. My life began to change when I wrote a play about my life staring in 2005." For Zimmerman, it's been worth the wait as the show is being seen by audiences nationwide. His career now includes opening for the late George Carlin and being Ms Rivers' opening act going on eight years. He's also worked with Dennis Miller, Julio Iglasias and Brad Garrett, and he played Johnny Sack's lawyer in "The Sopranos."

The show has generated much buzz while delivering an inspirational message: if you can find something in your life that you truly love, that gives your life meaning, then don't give up. It can make for a meaningful and rich life, no matter the when or what the outcome. "My Son the Waiter" is a performance for anyone who aspires to get the most out of their talents and is willing to stay the course.

If you've ever longed for something; if you ever desired it with all your heart; if you were willing to wait tables for 29 years to pursue your dream, My Son the Waiter will give meaning to your life!

(90 minutes. No intermission.)

TICKETS:

$45-$55 Wednesday & Thursday
$55-$65 Friday, Saturday & Sunday
(Online service fee $3.50 per ticket)

Box Office for tickets: 619.544.1000

Groups of 12 or more 1.888.264.1788

http://playhouseinfo.com/lyceumtheatre/