Comedy legends rock tributes and live music stars set for packed May lineup at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, Florida – A packed month of comedy, rock music, orchestral talent and live entertainment is set to take over The Parker this May as the iconic South Florida venue unveils a lineup filled with nationally recognized performers, tribute acts and community showcases.

Located in the heart of Holiday Park in Fort Lauderdale, the venue — formally known as Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker — continues to position itself as one of the region’s premier destinations for intimate live performances. From stand-up comedy and blues concerts to orchestral celebrations and dance recitals, the May schedule reflects a wide-ranging entertainment calendar designed to appeal to audiences across generations and musical tastes.

The month begins with comedian Jess Hilarious bringing her sharp, fast-paced humor to the stage on May 1. Presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and AEG, the performance is restricted to audiences 21 and older and is expected to draw fans familiar with her work across television, radio and social media.

Over the past several years, Jess Hilarious has built a major following through appearances on shows such as Wild ‘N Out, Rel and All Def Comedy on HBO. She also currently serves as a co-host on The Breakfast Club, one of the country’s most widely syndicated radio programs. Her comedy style, heavily influenced by her upbringing in Baltimore, combines blunt observations, storytelling and crowd interaction with a high-energy delivery that has become her trademark.

Read also: Florida Commissioner Wilton Simpson names 2026 Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award winner for long-standing work in land and water conservation

One night later, the spotlight shifts toward music and community celebration as the South Florida Pride Concert Band presents “The XL Concert ; 40 Years of Excellence.” The performance celebrates four decades of music and community engagement, adding another dimension to a month already filled with stylistic variety.

Blues and rock fans will then take center stage on May 7 when Devon Allman headlines Devon Allman’s Blues Summit. The concert gathers an all-star lineup that includes Jimmy Hall, Larry McCray and soul performer LAKA.

Organizers describe the performance as an electrifying blend of blues, rock and soul, paying tribute to the roots of American music while also highlighting its modern evolution. With Devon Allman carrying forward a legendary musical family name, the event is expected to attract longtime blues enthusiasts alongside newer audiences exploring the genre.

The following evening brings a completely different musical experience as One Night of Queen Performed by Gary Mullen and The Works arrives as part of the Cleveland Clinic Rock Series. The production has earned an international reputation for recreating the theatrical style, sound and stage presence of Queen.

Led by Gary Mullen, the tribute concert features some of the legendary band’s biggest hits, including “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Are the Champions” and “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.” Audiences can expect a full-scale rock production that mirrors the energy and spectacle that made Queen one of the most celebrated live acts in music history.

Pianist Richard Clayderman follows on May 9 with a live performance showcasing the internationally recognized musician’s signature romantic style and piano compositions. Clayderman’s performances have long attracted audiences around the world, particularly fans of instrumental and contemporary classical music.

Midway through the month, a scheduling change affects one of the venue’s anticipated rock performances. The Calling was originally scheduled to bring its “Before the World Turns to Dust Tour 2026” to The Parker on May 14, but organizers announced the concert has been moved to September 10, 2026.

Read also: Allie Long becomes first World Cup champion to play in Gainbridge Super League as Gordon scores for Fort Lauderdale

The Los Angeles-based band rose to fame during the early 2000s thanks to the massive success of “Wherever You Will Go,” a song that dominated the Adult Top 40 chart for 23 weeks and became one of the defining rock ballads of its era. Despite the postponement, anticipation remains strong among fans of early-2000s alternative rock.

The venue’s musical diversity continues on May 15 with a performance by internationally acclaimed cellist Luka Šulić. Best known as one half of the globally successful duo 2CELLOS, Šulić gained worldwide attention after the duo’s viral interpretation of “Smooth Criminal.”

Presented as part of the Baptist Health Red Carpet Series, the concert promises a blend of classical precision and modern crossover arrangements. Šulić has become known for pushing the boundaries of traditional cello performance, mixing classical technique with contemporary energy and theatrical flair.

The calendar also includes several local and community-centered productions throughout the month. The Miss Arc Broward Pageant takes place May 17, followed by “Dance Through the Ages: 21st Annual Recital ‘21ST & Broadway’” on May 21. The month concludes with Astrid Audet Academy presenting “Dancing Through the Decades” on May 30.

Comedy returns to the venue on May 20 when longtime stand-up performer Jim Breuer headlines “Find the Funny” alongside special guest Bryan McKenna as part of the Truist Comedy Series.

Breuer remains widely recognized for his years on Saturday Night Live and his role in the cult comedy film Half Baked. Known for energetic storytelling, animated impressions and crowd-focused humor, Breuer continues to maintain a strong touring presence across the country. Organizers noted that the performance will contain adult language.

Beyond the performances themselves, The Parker continues emphasizing the full entertainment experience surrounding each event.

Guests attending performances can access several upgraded hospitality options inside the venue. The Haller Club offers complimentary drinks and seasonal small bites before performances and during intermission in an upscale lounge environment. Meanwhile, The Place to Be provides an even more exclusive experience with premium spirits and private lounge access.

Visitors can also gather at Bernie Peck’s Bar inside the Sussman Lobby before and after performances.

Officials reminded attendees that Ticketmaster remains the only official ticketing provider for performances at the Broward Center and The Parker. Tickets are also available through the venue’s box office and by phone.

The broader 2025-2026 season at the Broward Center continues to receive support from organizations including the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, AutoNation, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau, Spirit Airlines and Nicklaus Children’s Health System.

With comedy stars, rock tributes, blues legends and internationally recognized musicians all sharing the same stage over the coming weeks, May is shaping up to be one of the busiest and most varied months of entertainment The Parker has offered in recent memory.