“Permission to Speak” Brings Comedy and Connection to Wisconsin

Former Late Show writer Paul Mecurio discusses laughter, heartfelt stories, and audience engagement on Nite Lite with Pete Schwaba

Audiences are in for a unique theater experience as comedian and former Late Show with Stephen Colbert writer Paul Mecurio brings his comedy and connection through his one-man show, Permission to Speak. Mecurio joined Nite Lite with Pete Schwaba to discuss the upcoming show in Milwaukee. It’s previously run on Broadway and Off-Broadway and offers a blend of comedy, storytelling, and crowd participation.

It’s about real people, their stories, and finding common ground through humor.

Paul Mecurio

The show is directed by Frank Oz, the legendary filmmaker behind Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Little Shop of Horrors, and the voice of Yoda. And Oz helps make Permission to Speak more than just a stand-up performance. 

---

LISTEN to the entire interview here:

---

“The show is about connection,” Mecurio says. “In a world where we’re increasingly divided and disconnected, this show is an opportunity for people to come together and share their real, often hilarious, sometimes poignant stories.”

The show doesn’t follow a scripted format. Mecurio tells Schwaba it engages with the audience, pulling individuals on stage for spontaneous conversations. 

“These stories can range from lighthearted to deeply moving, with audience members often becoming the unexpected stars of the night,” Mecurio explains. “Everyone has a story and it’s amazing what people will share when they feel safe and heard.”

The Emmy Award-winning team behind The Late Show designed the set. And there’s animation by the creators of Beavis and Butthead. All of it makes Permission to Speak a fully immersive theater experience. 

“It’s not a stand-up show,” Mecurio says. “It’s about real people, their stories, and finding common ground through humor.”

Tickets can be purchased at www.MarcusCenter.org for the October 19th performance.