Borscht Belt: The Comic Legacy of the Catskills Online
The Jewish Catskill resorts of the 20th century were a summer paradise for millions — and the birthplace of some of America’s greatest comic careers. Legends such as Mel Brooks, Sid Caesar, Rodney Dangerfield, Joan Rivers, and Jackie Mason honed their craft entertaining guests at iconic resorts like Grossinger’s, Brown’s, The Concord, Kutsher’s, and The Nevele. Entertainment historian John Kenrick presents a lively, multimedia talk exploring this rich comic tradition, featuring hilarious video clips and behind-the-scenes stories from the golden age of Borscht Belt comedy.
- Date:
- Tuesday, May 26, 2026
- Time:
- 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Time Zone:
- Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
- Branch:
- Virtual
- Online:
- This is an online event. Event URL will be sent via registration email.
- Audience:
- Adult Teens
- Categories:
- Virtual Programs
About the Presenter: John Kenrick has worked in the theatre at every level, from amateur productions to Broadway, and has served as personal assistant to six Tony Award–winning producers, including the team behind the original production of Rent. He has taught musical theatre history at New York University’s Steinhardt School, The New School, and Philadelphia’s University of the Arts. John is the author of Musical Theatre: A History, creator of the educational website Musicals101.com, and a founding curator for the Museum of Broadway in New York City.
Photo Courtesy of Library of Congress, Music Division.