MIKE BIRBIGLIA: THE OLD MAN & THE POOL Previews

Comedian Mike Birbiglia is about to make another splash on Broadway, as his one-man show The Old Man & the Pool begins previews tomorrow at Lincoln Center’s Vivian Beaumont Theater; opening night is November 13. The coming-of-age story is written by Birbiglia and directed by Seth Barrish. The Old Man & the Pool concludes its limited engagement on December 30.

“Award-winning comedian and storyteller Mike Birbiglia returns to Broadway this fall with a tale of life, death, and a highly chlorinated YMCA pool. Birbiglia takes the stage at the esteemed Vivian Beaumont Theater at Lincoln Center to chronicle his coming-of-middle-age story that asks the big questions: Why are we here? What’s next? What happens when the items at the doctor’s office that you thought were decorative become functional? The Old Man & the Pool, which played to sold-out houses in Berkeley, Chicago, and Los Angeles, resonates with audiences ages 12 to 112. It’s a hilarious reminder for all of us recovering from failing bodies and a flailing world that laughter is indeed the best medicine.”

Who’s diving right in?

He's like the Tom Hanks of comedy. Pleases the masses, family friendly, but not really my thing. Pleasant enough show.

Saw this in Cleveland in September. He was touring it on an empty stage under the title "Mike Birbiglia: Live!" (one of his usual clever titles which only make sense afterwards).

The subject matter is very sensitive for me, and I went in blind, so this was one of the rare occasions I wish I'd read a review ahead of time to be more mentally prepared. I spent most of the evening squirming uncomfortably, but part of his point is to get you to think about and face certain inevitable situations. Still full of humorous moments, very well-written and performed. Big fan of Mike's for almost 15 years, so I never miss him when he tours around.