JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – After more than two decades in comedy, Tom Papa says he’s finally reached a place where the laughs come with less pressure — and more joy.
The veteran stand-up comedian, actor and author is bringing his Grateful Bread Tour to Jacksonville.
“I’d say I’m pretty professionally content,” Papa said. “I’ve been doing it for such a long time, and now it’s so much nicer to be doing it while you know what you’re doing. I can actually just kick back and enjoy the shows without all the stress.”
Papa’s comedy is rooted in everyday life — the small moments, family dynamics and observations that audiences instantly recognize.
In addition to stand-up, Papa has built a career spanning film, television, books, radio and podcasts. He’s the host of the weekly podcast Breaking Bread with Tom Papa and a daily Netflix radio show on SiriusXM. He’s also appeared in films including “The Informant” and “Analyze That.”
Still, Papa says stand-up remains the foundation of everything he does.
“It’s a constant conversation with the public,” he said. “You’re learning together, experiencing things together, and finding joy together.”
As he heads to Jacksonville, Papa says he’s especially looking forward to warmer weather after a stretch of winter tour stops — and to giving audiences a night to unplug.
“My goal is for people to escape for an hour and a half,” he said. “Laugh until their faces hurt and walk out feeling better than when they walked in.”
Papa encouraged Jacksonville fans to come out ready for laughs — and possibly a little creativity.
“This is the Grateful Bread Tour,” he joked. “A lot of people bring treats. Let’s see what Jacksonville’s got.”