By Ruth SOWBY

Fritz Coleman’s two-year comedy residency at North Hollywood’s El Portal Theatre was celebrated with his one-man show “Unassisted Residency” on Sunday, Oct. 26. An added bonus for fans was a cookie and champagne reception following the performance.  

The Monroe Forum auditorium where Coleman performs has 96 seats; all were sold out for the milestone performance. In attendance was a large “baby boomer” crowd who responded to Coleman’s humor on aging gracefully and, sometimes, not so gracefully.  

“How about an old guy who thinks he’s an athlete,” he posed. “He wears a speedo over Depends.” Coleman, who is 77 years old, is having fun with his second career as a funny man. He retired from a nearly 40-year stint broadcasting the weather forecast on NBC4.

 His show, “Unassisted Living,” plays one Sunday a month. Coleman, who presents a new show each time he performs, writes his own jokes. 

After the 90-minute show fan munched on cookies and sipped champagne. Each fan had the chance to rub shoulders with Coleman. He took time to talk to everyone who approached him. Some were bold, some were timid … but all had their time in the sun.     

Coleman’s next show is on Nov. 30 at 3 p.m.  

“If you have a Medicare card, you need to see this show,” said Coleman.