Laughing Matter

Synopsis

Calvin and Adam are lifelong best friends who aspire to stand-up comic glory. Howard is a scientist with the same dream. All three men want what laughs can get them – fans, women, and connection. When comedy writer Stephanie and neuroscientist Meg weigh in with hard truths, the men are faced with tough decisions about whether “funny” really matters. A play about the meaning of friendship, the impact of confidence, and the “science” of comedy.

Playwright

Rob Ulin was born in Boston.  His theatrical work has been produced by the Berkshire Playwrights Lab and the Barrington Stage.  His play Judgment Day (starring Jason Alexander and directed by Moritz von Stuelpnagel) had its premiere in May 2024 at the Chicago Shakespeare’s Courtyard Theater, where it set a box office record for a straight play.  Judgment Day won the 2025 M. Elizabeth Osborn New Play Award from the American Theater Critics Association and was a finalist for the 2025 Steinberg/ATCA New Play Award.  As a writer/producer/showrunner of TV comedies, Rob has won a Peabody Award, a Golden Globe, and the Humanitas Prize.  He has also been nominated for multiple Writers Guild Awards.  Credits include: Roseanne, Malcolm in the Middle, and Ramy.