Welcome to The Parishioner
Spreading The Word
BOTH Performances of The Parishioner -
SOLD OUT With Great Reviews!
Now Comes Your Opportunity to Be Part of History.
To Continue the Journey, We Need You.
Take a Look. Smile. Check out our Gifts.
All Donations Will Help the Next Step of
Spreading the Word!
The Parishioner Project is Now LIVE on
KICKSTARTER.
Help Us Help Others!
A Message From The Producer
It's Happening!
Don't Miss Your Opportunity to be a Part of History.
The Parishioner....Debuted April 13, 2025!
A Priest finds himself scammed into meeting a Parishioner for a Late-night Confession, Only to Learn that he is a Notorious Government Assassin, Who Now Works for a Higher Authority. How Can Something so Serious be SO Funny?!?!
Don't Miss Your Opportunity To Be Part of this Premiere Performance! Doors open at 2:00 PM with a Champagne Meet & Greet
Including Hors d'oeuvres Prepared Exclusively by
Award-winning Executive Chef
Filomena,
Born and Raised in Calabria Italy.
Seating starts at 3:00 PM.
A Play So Hilariously Funny That Even The Actors Cannot Make it Through an Entire Rehearsal Without Bursting into Laughter!
You'll Find Yourself Thanking GOD for Giving You a Funnybone!
Imagine a Professional Hitman, Who Gets His Instructions From a Sarcastic, Angry Angel, Trying to Reason with an Old School, Stubborn Irish Priest...
A Behind-the-Scenes Sneak Peek
You've got only 15 seconds to get your ticket!
Welcoming News!
Steve Trevelise, from NJ 101.5 FM radio, will be joining us at our event on April 13, 2025, for
Brunch, Champagne, and a Meet and Greet!
Please listen Wednesday evenings, at 9:30 pm,
When Steve and myself, Gemini, along with some of the top comedians From all Around the Country
Join Together for an Evening of Laughter and Prizes.
This Wednesday, we'd love for you to call in at 1-800-283-1015
Our NJ number 1 radio station. Thank you!
News From the Producer
A word from the Producer of The Parishioner
Finishing Touches by John Lombardi, Playwright of The Parishioner
Comedian, Magician, Ventriloquist, and now Playwright and Producer! John Lombardi busy with pre-premiere arrangements, takes time out to tell you a little about The Parishioner!
A Little Bit About Our New Jersey Venue, the Flemington Elks Lodge #1928
The Elks Lodge, located at 165 NJ-31 South, in Flemington, NJ, has a Mission of Benevolence, Education, and Patriotism through
Programs that Benefit many people such as
Physically Challenged Children,
Elks National Foundation Scholarships,
Scouting,
Athletic Teams,
Veterans, etc.
These Funds are raised by Elk members, through events and
sharing the use of the Lodge.
Gemini, an active Elk Member, explains how
The Parishioner will enable Lodge #1928 to
help even More members of Our Community.
The Actors!
Johnny Gerard DeBenedetto
Star of Film, Television, and Theatre,
Gerard DeBenedetto is a New York City native, who also spent many years overseas. Those experiences, along with professional training, have had a profound influence on his acting. Prior to his acting career, Gerard had a succssful 25 year career in Investment Management.
Has this experience prepared him to play a Professional Hitman? Absolutely!
The Irish Priest Richard Byrne
One of the most requested comedians working today, Richie's comedy credits include such well-known clubs as Dangerfield's, Carolines and Gotham Comedy Club in Manhattan. As well as many clubs around the country including Hilarities in Cleveland & The Ice House in Pasadena.
For over twenty years Richie Byrne has worked the top comedy venues here and abroad. Richie is also very proud to be the warm-up comic for "The Dr. Oz Show"
Richie brings the Irish Priest to life with humor and the perfect Irish twinkle in his eye!
Monk 1 Gianni Sallese
From New York City, our Monk #1,
Gianni Sallese, originally hails from Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Gianni has extensive voiceover experience, and is fluent in multiple languages,
with the ability to speak in
15 different accents, and 14 voice styles!
Trained at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy, Gianni is an accomplished keyboardist and singer, and is also a Master of comedy impressions.
His portrayal of Monk 1 will have you ready to join the Monastery!
Monk 2 Jeanna Schweppe
Jeanna Schweppe has extensive Commercial, TV, Film, and Theatre experience, including several performances on Broadway and National tours.
She has multiple wins and nominations for her film work, including the NY International Film Award, for her work in the film
"My Friend Doubt".
Jeanna's extensive acting experience, in all of these areas, enables her to bring Monk 2 to life with the perfect blend of dry humor and exaggerated tolerance of her fellow Monk.
Director Mark Riccadonna
Director Mark Ricadonna possesses many years of extensive experience in the fields of acting, voice-over artistry, writing, comedy, production and direction.
In addition to being a writer for Saturday Night Live's "Weekend Update",
Mark has also participated in Comedy Festivals, Produced, Directed, and Acted in Pilots and Short Films.
He has contributed to film festivalsand has also performed as a touring comedian.
If you aren't exhausted reading this yet,
Mark has won multiple awards at film and comedy festivals and has performed for our troops at USO and Armed Forces Entertainment.
Mark's incredible directorial instincts have enabled him to bring The Parishioner characters to life through the actors, and you will find yourself completely immersed in the action the entire time.
Writer/Producer John Lombardi
John "Gemini" Lombardi was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York.
At the age of eleven, with his quick sense of humor and witty personality, John took his act to the streets of New York City, much to the delight of passersby and neighbors.
This propelled him to study acting, dance, and choreography to enhance his stage presence and comedic talent.
John studied drama at the Weiss Baron School of Drama, H.B. Studio Acting School, and Gene Frankel Theatre in New York City. John attended Nazareth College, and State University in New Paltz, New York.
Being a reader at Mass for the past two decades, John was always curious about what it was like, after death, when you meet our Creator. He decided to write The Parishioner and present this concept in a humorous way. If that goal has been achieved, only God (and you) knows.
IN THE NEWS
A Special Thank You to Joey Novick
Comedian Gemini, also known as John Lombardi, has built strong connections in the newspaper industry over the years—
Some of whom happen to be his neighbors. It's always fascinating to realize that others in your own community share the same experiences as an entertainer.
The author of this article is not only a comedian but also the produc
Comedian Gemini, also known as John Lombardi, has built strong connections in the newspaper industry over the years—
Some of whom happen to be his neighbors. It's always fascinating to realize that others in your own community share the same experiences as an entertainer.
The author of this article is not only a comedian but also the producer of a recently acclaimed play that took top honors at a theater festival on Broadway in NYC. As Mr. Novick puts it, "There’s nothing better than hearing an audience laugh when an actor delivers a line you wrote."
Visit joeynovick.com to explore his many ventures in the neighborhood and everyone here at Gemini Entertainment wants to thank him!
A Special Thank You to Rod Hirsch
A real special thanks to a really special friend. Rod Hirsch and his wife, I thank you.
Thank you for joining me on
April 13th in Flemington to witness the play, The Parishioner.
Please check out Ron's articles at Tapinto Hillsborough. They are always awesome.
Please also see his awesome article on
Mary Rose Fealey who used to work in th
A real special thanks to a really special friend. Rod Hirsch and his wife, I thank you.
Thank you for joining me on
April 13th in Flemington to witness the play, The Parishioner.
Please check out Ron's articles at Tapinto Hillsborough. They are always awesome.
Please also see his awesome article on
Mary Rose Fealey who used to work in this office.
Huge Thanks to Some AMAZING People!
Thank you, Mom, for donating the first $1000 to start this project!
(You did donate it, right? I don't have to pay you back?)
Friends and Family that Inspired The Parishioner!
About Theater Comedy Productions
Our Mission
At Theater Comedy Productions, we strive to bring joy and laughter to audiences through our exceptional performances. Our mission is to create unforgettable experiences that highlight the beauty of comedy in theater.
Our Performers
Our performers are world-class musicians, dancers, and entertainers who bring energy and excitement to every show. With a diverse range of talents and skills, our performers can customize their performances to fit any event or occasion.
Our Partners
We work closely with a variety of vendors and event professionals to ensure a seamless and stress-free event experience. From event planners and caterers to photographers and florists, we have trusted partners who can help bring your vision to life.
Hello
Welcome to Theater Comedy Productions!
We are an entertainment agency that provides top-quality artists, performers, and musicians for all kinds of events. Whether you need a DJ for your wedding, a live band for your corporate event, or a magician for your birthday party, we've got you covered. Contact us today to book your next unforgettable experience!
Make Your Event Unforgettable with Theater Comedy Productions
Stunning Aerial Acrobatics
Our talented aerial acrobats will take your breath away with their gravity-defying performances. From silk to hoop, they will create a stunning visual display that will leave your guests in awe.
Interactive Game Shows
Our interactive game shows will keep your guests engaged and entertained throughout your event. From trivia to physical challenges, we have a variety of game shows that will create a fun and competitive atmosphere for your guests.
Professional Speakers
Our professional speakers will inspire and motivate your audience with their powerful messages. From business leaders to athletes, we have a variety of speakers that will leave a lasting impact on your guests.
Celebrity DJs
Our celebrity DJs will keep your guests dancing all night long with their high-energy mixes. From hip hop to electronic dance music, we have a variety of DJs to choose from to suit your event.
Customized Entertainment Packages
Let us create a customized entertainment package that meets your specific needs and preferences. From music to activities, we will work with you to create an event that is truly unique and unforgettable.
Virtual Events
With our virtual event services, you can host an engaging and interactive event from anywhere in the world. From webinars to virtual conferences, we have the tools and expertise to make your virtual event a success.