Two Funny Mamas Present Double Shows at NJPAC
Comedy stars Sherri Shepherd and Kym Whitley will bring their unfiltered “Two Funny Mamas” show to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center’s Victoria Theater for two performances on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM and 9:45 PM. The double-header event, part of the Prudential North to Shore Festival, promises an evening of no-holds-barred comedy drawing from the performers’ 25-year friendship and shared experiences, according to the North to Shore Festival website.
The NAACP Image Award winners and Emmy-recognized entertainers will tackle topics ranging from motherhood and dating to relationships and pop culture, bringing their signature blend of humor and heart to the Newark venue. The performances extend the reach of their successful podcast collaboration into a live format for festival audiences.
Podcast Success Translates to Stage
“Two Funny Mamas” began as a podcast in 2020, quickly gaining popularity for its candid conversations and the authentic chemistry between the hosts. The show’s success across audio platforms has led to this expanded live format, allowing the comedians to interact directly with their audience while maintaining the intimate conversational style that defines their digital presence.
“What makes their podcast special is the genuine friendship behind it,” explains entertainment journalist Jasmine Sanders in a recent Essence feature. “When you listen to Sherri and Kym, you’re eavesdropping on two friends who happen to be hilarious. That authenticity is why audiences have connected so deeply with their content.”
The live show format expands on topics familiar to podcast listeners while incorporating new material and audience interaction unique to the stage experience. Both performers bring decades of stand-up comedy experience to the presentation, allowing for a seamless transition between structured segments and improvisational moments.
Complementary Comedy Styles
Shepherd and Whitley bring distinctly complementary approaches to comedy that have made their collaboration particularly effective. Shepherd, known for her eight-year tenure on “The View” and her current daytime talk show “Sherri,” delivers sharp observational humor often centered on family dynamics and her experiences as a mother.
Whitley, whose credits include “Next Friday,” “Along Came Polly,” and “Black Dynamite,” counters with broader physical comedy and storytelling that draws from her extensive acting career. According to Black Comedy Network, their contrasting styles create a dynamic performance rhythm that keeps audiences engaged throughout their appearances.
“They represent two different but complementary approaches to comedy,” notes the publication. “Sherri’s preciseness paired with Kym’s expansiveness creates a perfect balance. They know when to give each other space to shine and when to come together for maximum impact.”
Intimate Venue Enhances Experience
The Victoria Theater at NJPAC, with its 514-seat capacity, provides an ideal setting for the performers’ conversational style. The more intimate space, compared to NJPAC’s larger Prudential Hall, allows for greater audience interaction and visibility throughout the venue.
Located at 1 Center Street in Newark, NJPAC serves as a hub for multiple festival performances across various disciplines. The complex’s downtown location offers convenient access via public transportation and proximity to pre-show dining options.
The scheduling of two performances on the same evening demonstrates the anticipated demand for the show, providing options for different audience preferences while maximizing the impact of the performers’ appearance at the festival.
Festival Context
The “Two Funny Mamas” performances are part of the broader Prudential North to Shore Festival running from June 14-29 across multiple New Jersey locations. The multi-city festival features events in Newark, Asbury Park, and Atlantic City, celebrating New Jersey’s artistic and cultural contributions.
The inclusion of these performances highlights the festival’s commitment to showcasing diverse voices in comedy alongside its music and community programming. Shepherd and Whitley join other notable comedians appearing during the festival period, contributing to a strong comedy component within the broader arts celebration.
Ticket information and additional details about the “Two Funny Mamas” performances can be found on the North to Shore Festival website and through NJPAC channels. With two performances scheduled, attendees have flexibility in choosing their preferred show time for what promises to be a highlight of the festival’s comedy offerings.
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