Performing Arts

A free afternoon screening of the 1957 John Huston film starring Robert Mitchum and Deborah Kerr. Part of the North End Branch Friday Films series.

The Boston Film Festival is one of America’s longest-running and industry recognized events for films. The 42nd program takes place in September and will showcase cutting edge indie films, top documentaries, shorts, animated, fall release studio films, filmmaker Q&As and more.

Maria Bamford, creator of Netflix’s Lady Dynamite and author of a New York Times bestselling memoir, brings her deeply personal and experimental comedy about mental illness to The Wilbur. One of the most singular voices in stand-up, she has also lent her talents to Arrested Development, Portlandia, and countless animated series.

High-energy comedian Shapel Lacey takes over Laugh Boston for a two-night weekend run, Friday and Saturday. His explosive stage presence and candid storytelling have made him a fast-rising favorite on the national comedy circuit.

Stand-up comedian Paul Virzi headlines Laugh Boston in the Seaport for one night. A veteran of the national club and theater circuit known for his sharp, personal storytelling, Virzi brings a polished hour to Boston’s flagship comedy club.

Winner of the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Play, Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ explosive Purpose dives into a prominent Black political dynasty encircled by civil rights leaders, pastors, and congressmen. When the youngest son returns home with an unexpected dinner guest, the family begins to fracture in this searing, hilarious exploration…

Poet, comedian and performance artist ALOK brings the Eat Pray Leave Tour to the Wilbur Theatre. The show blends stand-up, spoken word and storytelling. Doors open ahead of the 7:00 PM start.

The touring live comedy dating show takes over the Wilbur Theatre for an evening of on-stage matchmaking and stand-up. Comedians and audience volunteers turn first-date questions into a night of improvised comedy. Showtime is 7:30 PM.

The Central Library screens Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing (1989) followed by a group discussion. Registration is required and the program is free.