Laughter Takes Center Stage at the ArtsQuest Campus at SteelStacks this Fall
Bethlehem, Lehigh Valley, PA. September 2, 2025 – From speed dating and Shakespeare to nationally acclaimed headliners, ArtsQuest is bringing a packed lineup of comedy to the ArtsQuest Campus at SteelStacks this fall and winter. With something for everyone, whether you’re searching for love, craving clever improv or ready to see some of today’s funniest rising and established comics, ArtsQuest is the place to be for laughs.
Kick off the fall/winter season with a night that’s part comedy, part connection withFirst Impressions: A Speed Dating Experience on September 12 in the Fowler Blast Furnace Room. This interactive 21+ event includes calling card creations, ice breaker games, two rounds of speed dating and a final chance to mingle. Perfect for anyone seeking love, friendship or just a memorable night out.
Comedian, writer and actorMike Hanford brings his sharp humor to Bethlehem on September 19. Known for his work on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, IFC’s The Birthday Boys and Netflix’s Love, Hanford has also voiced characters on the animated his Digman! starring Andy Samberg. He co-hosts The Sloppy Boys Podcast, named one of the best comedy podcasts of 2021 by Vulture.
New York City-based comic,Adam Mamawala takes the Bethlehem Visitor Center at SteelStacks presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network part of Jefferson Health stage on September 20. Mamawala has been seen on Comedy Central, MTV, BET and Amazon Prime. His two albums hit #1 on iTunes Comedy Charts, and he has recently toured as Dane Cook’s feature act at legendary venues across the country.
On September 23, join us in the Musikfest Café as one audience suggestion creates a completely new Shakespearean play.The Improvised Shakespeare Company turns your idea into a full-length, never-before-seen masterpiece. Hailed as one of the best improv troupes in the world, ISC has performed everywhere from Bonnaroo to the Kennedy Center, with guest appearances from stars like Jason Alexander and Sir. Patrick Stewart.
Philly native Pat House takes the Bethlehem Visitor Center at SteelStacks presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network part of Jefferson Health stage on September 27. House draws from the absurdity of everyday life in his sharp, relatable stand-up. He’s opened for comedy heavyweights including Sebastian Maniscalco, Tom Segura and Brad Williams. His albums have topped the iTunes charts and are featured on Sirius XM.
At just 20 years old, Elijah Nevels has already built a national following of more than 190,000 on Instagram and headlines clubs across the country. Starting comedy at age 14, Nevels captivates audiences with his quick wit and storytelling style. Catch Nevels at the Visitor Center at SteelStacks presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network part of Jefferson Health on November 1.
Closing out the year is none other than “The African King of Comedy.” Born in Ghana and raised in Philadelphia, Michael Blackson rose to fame with his unforgettable role in Next Friday. With appearances on Def Comedy Jam, BET’s ComicView and a career spanning over a decade, Blackson remains one of the most original voices in comedy today. Don’t miss Blackson in the Musikfest Café on December 18!
Tickets for all shows are available at steelstacks.org or by calling the box office at 610-332-3378. Discounts for ages 25 and under, as well as seniors, are available at the box office only. Please note age restrictions and content advisories vary by show.
About ArtsQuest
ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences using arts and culture as key elements of economic development for our urban communities. ArtsQuest™ supports this mission via the presentation of performing and visual arts, film, arts education classes and outreach, youth programming and cultural events. Through festivals such as its flagship event, Musikfest; the ArtsQuest Creative Factory powered by PPL; and the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks arts and cultural campus, ArtsQuest’s programming reaches more than 1.9 million people annually. The organization’s programs and events, of which nearly 40 percent are free to attend, have a combined economic impact of more than $136 million annually in the region.