Chevalier Theatre welcomes actor and comedian Joey Diaz for his first Medford appearance. Born in Havana, Cuba, and raised in North Bergen, New Jersey, Joey “Coco” Diaz is one of the more sought-after actors and comedians in the entertainment industry. His love of storytelling is reflected in each role he takes; whether it is on film or on stage, his passion for entertaining and delighting audiences shines through every performance.

Diaz’s start in comedy began while serving a short stint at a correctional facility in Denver in 1988. “Each Wednesday we would watch movies on the projector, but sometimes it would break,” he shares, “so I would get up and do stand up to fill the time.” Learning he had the skills to make an audience laugh, he pursued comedy after his release and began performing at an assortment of comedy clubs in the area. While he was touring as a working comic, he began acting in a variety television and film roles. You may recognize him from his appearances in “The Mentalist,” “Children’s Hospital,” “My Name is Earl,” or “General Hospital.” On the film front, Diaz has held roles in “The Longest Yard,” “Spider Man 2,” “Smiley Face,” “Taxi,” and “Grudge Match,” among others.

Fewer than 10 tickets, all single seats, remain at $32 through the Chevalier Theatre website/Ticketmaster. Tickets may also be purchased, free of fees, at the Chevalier Theatre Box Office, which is open every Saturday from noon to 6 p.m., as well as two hours before every Chevalier Theatre show.