Art House Productions presents:
50 Shades of Gay Takes On The 80's
A Night of Comedy, Music, Drag, Audience Participation & Giveaways!
50 Shades of Gay: Takes On The 80's is a themed installment of award-winning comedian Ike Avelli's long-running adult variety show combining comedy, music, drag, and audience participation, the 2025-2026 iteration celebrates the 1980s through high-energy performances and retro pop culture references. The show features parody and tribute numbers of iconic 1980s tracks, including Madonna’s "Express Yourself," Toni Basil’s "Mickey," and Pat Benatar’s "Hit Me With Your Best Shot".
A hallmark of Avelli's style, the show includes interactive segments like dance contests and a "Wig-a-thon" lip-sync battle where winners often receive prizes.
Alongside host Ike Avelli, the show frequently features recording artist Cecile Williams and guest stars like drag performers Lexie Legato and Hostess of the House Clover Welsh. Plus, opening act Mark Aguilar and Karlee Bloom.
BONUS: Special preview of Micky Angelo Petrillo's documentary "The Man I Was Born To Be"
Audiences are encouraged to attend in their favorite '80s attire, such as neon fashion and shoulder pads. 
TICKETS:
General Admission: $20.00
At-The-Door General Admission: $25.00
VIP: $40.00 (Includes cabaret table seating, one free drink at the bar, and Ike Avelli's book)
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Doors: 7:00 PM, Opening Performance: 7:45 PM, Show: 8:00 PM
Art House Productions
345 Marin Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ
ABOUT IKE AVELLI
Ike Avelli is a New Jersey-based adult stand-up comedian, writer, and producer known for his high-energy variety shows and support for the LGBTQ+ community. He began his comedy career "by accident" in 2009 after filling in for a performer at a Christmas party.
Career Highlights:
- Original Shows: Since 2013, Avelli has written, produced, and starred in over 14 original variety shows. His most famous production, "50 Shades of Gay," debuted in 2015 and has sold out venues across the U.S., including Bally’s in Atlantic City and the Rochester Fringe Festival.
- Literary Work: He is the author of the book "A Year In The Life Of Ike Avelli...And It Ain't Pretty," a diary-style look at his experiences in 2017, which reached the Top 20 new releases on Amazon.
- Podcasting: He co-hosts the popular podcast "Loose Lips" (previously known as "Tea and Dirt") alongside Tym Moss.
Awards and Recognition:
- Comedian of the Year: Winner of the Get Out Magazine LGBTQ Comedian of the Year in 2014 and 2023.
- Fringe Awards: Winner of the 2018 Providence Fringe Award for "50 Shades of Gay."
- Glam Awards: Multiple nominations for Best Comedy Performer and Best Cabaret Show.
Recent and Upcoming Schedule:
As of early 2026, the themed production has recently completed a series of high-profile dates such as:
- Atlantic City: Performed at the Celebrity Theater in The Claridge Hotel on May 31, 2025.
- Rochester Fringe Festival: Held two performances at the School of the Arts on September 12 and 14, 2025.
- NYC Residencies: Regular holiday and themed editions typically take place at The Copa NYC
Directions:
https://www.arthouseproductions.org/pages/directions
Parking Options:
Street parking where available.
https://spothero.com/
Public Transportation:
Transitapp.com
www.transitapp.com