Jersey Devil: A Dead Dad Comedy

"Jersey Devil" is comedy in it's rawest form: it's truth. It's hard to really paint a portrait of a person who you both love and has caused you immense trauma, and yet Hal invites us in to see the complicated person that his dad was. The comedy of the show comes from the raw honesty which ranges from "that's genuinely pretty funny" all the way to "i'm laughing because it's so shocking my body doesn't know how else to respond". And yet, nothing ever feels sensationalized or or done in such a way as to advance a narrative. This is the story of a man who did a lot of bad things, but also had some good moments. There's a beautiful dichotomy between the outlandish character Hal portrays and the nuance he also manages to sneak in about how we're a... full review

A unique story that was well told. Well written, well directed, well acted...And hilarious! ... full review

Jersey Devil is a hilarious and fast-paced journey. Hal recalls the outlandish behavior his father (and his sketchy associates) forced him to endure while growing up, showcasing his expertise in character-work. The writing is sharp, and the show has a perfect balance of physical humor and reflection. You’ll leave with a smile, impressed by Hal’s talent- and resiliency!... full review

“He know not what he do” Hal Rudnick puts on a great show with a lot of heart — playful, honest, sharp, and generous often all in the same breath. It strikes a wonderful balance that is as wise as the stories are bizarre. With surprises around every corner and laughter all the way through, JERSEY DEVIL is sure to be a fringe favorite!... full review

High energy! So funny! This is how you trauma dump (jk!). Hal did an amazing job weaving many events and many years into a succinct one-hour show. I was smiling the whole tome... full review

Rudnick saws open old wounds in this hilarious, biting and painfully honest portrayal of his father - unstable, unpredictable and a felon - whose life is one chaotic story after another, with young Hal and his family along for the ride. ... full review

Hal has a story to tell, and it's one that is truly unforgettable – a raw, real, hilarious truth of his life that you absolutely don't want to miss.... full review

I could tell a life's worth of deep emotional mining went into this show and Hal struck gold. The backbone of the show keeps you thoroughly engaged as Hal takes you on a honest and eye-opening journey through his life. The characters you meet throughout the show are hilarious and stunning. You truly feel the healing power of laughter throughout this show. So glad I saw it! ... full review

An endearing, wonderfully sentimental, one-person show delivered through snappy comedy, nostalgia, and a lot of love. To no surprise, Hal has impeccable comedic timing and is a wonderful storyteller. Even though we are in a large venue (for fringe) this still felt intimate, which is quite an accomplishment. The whole show has a cozy, warm and inviting tone - almost like you're having a beer with Hal as he shares stories about his late Father's transgressions and schemes. Jersey Devil reminds us that even though we can't choose our family they do play an integral part of who we are, for better, for worse... and how we can't help but love our family when they are giving us every reason not to. It's that ability to look past everything on... full review

Every human is complicated and nuanced and Jersey Devil does a beautiful job of sharing the complexities of its subject from a place of healing and distance. It’s funny, shocking, and masterful storytelling. ... full review