Fathom Events, New Wave Team for Original In-Theater Comedy Specials (Exclusive)

NCM Fathom Events is teaming up with New Wave Entertainment to bring comedy specials to select U.S. movie theaters this summer, The Hollywood Reporter has learned exclusively.

Through the pact, New Wave will bring a series of original stand-up specials — some will be pre-taped while others will be live — featuring A-list comedians to the cinema. The list of talent participating will be announced at a later date. Select cities include Los Angeles, New York City, Houston, Chicago, San Francisco, San Diego, Phoenix, Boston and Atlanta.

New Wave has produced original comedy specials featuring the likes of Craig Ferguson, Aziz Ansari and Jim Gaffigan for HBO, Comedy Central and Showtime, among others.

The news furthers Fathom Events’ expansion into comedy programming, which includes a previously announced “clean” comedy series targeting families produced by Clean Guys Entertainment.

“New Wave is very excited to be working with Fathom Events in a way that will bring comedy specials to an even larger audience,” said Brian Volk-Weiss, head of production at New Wave Entertainment.

“Experiencing great stand-up comedy doesn’t have to be restricted to comedy clubs,” said Shelly Maxwell, executive vp at NCM Fathom Events. “Audiences will soon be able to experience the excitement and spontaneity of live stand-up in their local movie theaters.”

Fathom Events has been providing alternative entertainment on the big screen since 2002, with performances of the Metropolitan Opera, sports events, music and Broadway productions.

Should the agreement be successful, New Wave would be open to eyeing more original in-theater comedy specials.

Email: Philiana.Ng@thr.com
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