Candice Guardino: Italian Bred

Italian Bred is the critically acclaimed Off Broadway hit theatrical comedy by Candice Guardino, inspired by her Italian family. With story, characters, music, and heart, it turns the stage into a family gathering where everyone belongs. A dose of nostalgia, laughter, and some tears. Every performance includes the beloved stories audiences know and love, along with spontaneous moments and fresh surprises that make each live show completely unique.

About Candice Guardino

Candice Guardino is a comedian, writer, actor, producer, and host whose work celebrates family, culture, and the beautifully chaotic stories that connect us. Born in Brooklyn and raised on Staten Island in a loud, loving Italian-American family, Candice transformed her upbringing into the theatrical comedy Italian Bred. Based entirely on true events, the one-woman show became a national touring success before being adapted into an Amazon Prime comedy special which debuted earlier this year. Through a cast of unforgettable characters — including her larger-than-life grandmother — Candice invites audiences into her family’s world with humor, heart, and authenticity.

A successful touring performer, Candice has performed across the United States, with her live productions generating more than $2.5 million in box office sales. In 2022 she founded Anthony Street Productions and produced the filmed special in partnership with Comedy Dynamics. Directed by Samuel Brownfield, the special features an original song co-written by Candice and Emmy-nominated composer David Dabbon.

Following the release of Italian Bred, Candice created, produced, and hosted the companion digital series and podcast Italian Bred: At the Table, welcoming guests including Lorraine Bracco, John Edward, Gianmarco Soresi, Father James Martin, Matty Maggiacomo, Tara Cannistraci, and others. Highlights from the series have generated more than 2.8 million views across social media. Candice’s newest digital storytelling series, Confessions of an Italian Bred Girl, premieres in September 2026. She is also writing her debut comedic essay collection, Therapy Is Expensive and Laughing at Myself Is Free, and is developing a scripted television series based on her grandmother’s secret journals as well as a feature film inspired by her comedy special.

When not working, Candice splits her time between NYC and LA with her husband Tom, two year old son Maverick, and her dog Cannoli; who is the real boss of the household.

Follow Candice

• Website: www.candiceguardino.com
• Instagram: @CandiceGuardino
• YouTube: @CandiceGuardinoComedy

The presentation described on this page is a rental. If you would like information about renting the Bardavon or UPAC theater please visit the venue's Rentals Page.

Ordering directions

• Preferable way to purchase tickets is in person at the Bardavon or Ulster Performing Arts box office.
• You may also buy online at Ticketmaster.com (Ticketmaster fees will apply).
• Bardavon Member benefits and special discounts are not available through Ticketmaster.
• Please be aware there are secondary outlets selling tickets at inflated prices and other scams. The Bardavon/UPAC box offices and Ticketmaster are the only official sources for tickets for these events.

Become a member

Purchase tickets over the phone, get early access to pre-sales, and more when you become a Bardavon Member. Learn more by calling the box office.

Accessibility

Please be advised that there is no elevator at either of our theaters — call or email the box office to arrange ADA seating.