Bob Alper Comedian at Monument Arts & Cultural Center

Bob Alper - Rabbi/Stand-Up Comic (Really)

There’s a reason why Sirius/XM satellite radio plays Rabbi Bob Alper’s bits several times daily, often sandwiched between Bob Newhart and Jerry Seinfeld: Bob’s unique background - he’s an ordained rabbi who served congregations for fourteen years and holds a doctorate from Princeton Theological Seminary - prepared him well for a thirty-five year comedy career with wonderfully unique material presented in a way that’s intelligent, sophisticated and 100% clean. 

Audiences adore him, from an SRO crowd at the prestigious Montreal Comedy Festival to a standing ovation before 2,700 people at New York’s famed Chautauqua Institution. He’s appeared at Hollywood’s IMPROV and THE COMEDY STORE, and in December, 2022, he bested 20 nationally-performing comedians in a contest sponsored by The Vermont Comedy Festival.

Bob performs all across North America and England, at corporate events, theatres, non-profits, conventions, private parties, churches, and, naturally, synagogues. And he’s done over 500 shows with his Muslim and Christian comedy partners, at a variety of venues, primarily colleges and universities.  The New York Times reported the comics “...had the audience convulsing.”

Bob’s 75-minute stand-up act is fast-paced, with impeccable timing and material that’s definitely sharp yet gentle and unhurtful. In addition, he offers an informative, hilarious event called “The Spirituality of Laughter,” which is particularly appropriate for religious organizations, civic groups, school and hospital in-services, etc. 

The rabbi-comedian draws tremendous media attention, and, among others, has been seen on The Tamron Hall Show (twice), The Early Show, The Today Show, Good Morning America, Showtime, the BBC, CNN and was featured on Extra, TV's top-rated entertainment program, immediately following a segment on the size of Jennifer Lopez's buttocks. He was named “Honorary Comedic Advisor to the Pope,” winning an international contest launched on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”

In addition to being a full-time stand-up comic, Bob is the author of three books that further showcase his considerable talents: Life Doesn't Get Any Better Than This, an inspirational collection that The Detroit Free Press called “a volume of spiritual gems;” the award-winning full-color cartoon book A Rabbi Confesses; and Thanks.  I Needed That, more stories that touch readers with their warmth, humor, and wisdom.  He’s also produced two best-selling comedy CDs as well as a DVD.  

Bob resides in rural Vermont with his wife Sherri, a psychotherapist. Professionally, he makes people laugh, while she helps people cry.