About

Life’s Rich Pageant

A True Story of Overcoming Impossible Odds

Theatre Row, 410 West 42nd Street, NYC, 10036

Sunday, March 12th, 6:00pm.

Sunday, March 19th, 7:00pm SOLD OUT

Tuesday, March 21st, 7:00pm SOLD OUT

In Life’s Rich Pageant, Richard Gustafson recounts his wildly unconventional upbringing in ‘70s Brooklyn and ‘80s Jersey Shore as his parents descend into drug addiction and New York’s gay underground.

He faces abuse, neglect and unthinkable tragedy all while trying to be a normal kid.  In the end, he knows what he needs to do to move past childhood trauma.  But can he?

Gustafson graduated Rutgers University and lived and worked in New York City for three decades before moving back to his home where he is currently a financial advisor.

“My hope is in telling my story -- the good, the bad and the bizarre --  others who faced trauma won’t feel alone,” Gustafson said. “That’s the point of Life’s Rich Pageant; we’re all in this together.”

This unique and powerful theater production debuted in Asbury Park, NJ, last Fall as Gustafson performed his one-man-show to sold-out audiences.

The play was written by his long-time friend Susan McCue, a New Jersey native and political strategist based in Washington, DC.

Please note, some content not suitable for minors.