Thursday, October 1, 2026
Because Al Jolson is forever embraced by many as “The World’s Greatest Entertainer,” celebrating him every year has become an unmissable tradition. The Al Jolson Society is ready with the 26th edition of its annual festival, on Sept. 6, when guests will enjoy an exciting day of music, memorabilia and laughs.
Jolson once said: “A responsive audience is the best encouragement an actor can have.”
It was immediately clear to audiences that there was an incredible amount to which they would want to respond. The star of the first talking picture, 1927’s “The Jazz Singer,” Jolson was an eponymous performer famous for his work in vaudeville and musical theater. In fact, there’s a street named after him on Broadway outside of the Winter Garden Theatre, where he sold out nine vaudeville musical revues. This is why Jan Hernstat, the International Al Jolson Society president and founder, feels it’s important to remember his stamp on entertainment as we now know it.
“I always tell people that he was the first superstar before that phrase was coined,” says Hernstat. “He was an international star at a time when there was no real media to promote what he did. There’s wasn’t radio and TV. For somebody to be as big as he was worldwide at a time when there was nothing to promote yourself, it really talks about your talent. You think of him and the guys who followed him, and there are so few people in the same category. Frank Sinatra. The Beatles. Bing Crosby. Elvis Presley.
“This is why I’m celebrating his talent, his singing and his voice. He was an incredible star. I think it’s important for us to remember who he was and what he did.”
The word “celebration” is an understatement when considering the many experiences planned for festival guests. One of the highlights is the auction of Jolson items.
“We have a lot of good stuff up for auction that we haven’t had in the past,” Hernstat says. “People donated collections that go back 60 or 70 years. If someone comes as a collector, they would really enjoy it!”
The schedule includes a number of unique performances and a luncheon buffet. Eddie Cantor’s grandson, Brian Gari, will be on hand to share stories and greet lucky attendees. Ed Greenbaum will once again be sharing his audio rarities.
This year’s festival is serving up unique comedy with new acts from some old favorites. Noah Diamond demonstrate the iconic humor of Groucho Marx with a recreation of a radio program the comedian did with Jolson. The unforgettable Bob Greenberg and Jonathan Smith (who have previously graced the stage as Laurel & Hardy) change gears this year and take on Abbott & Costello (expect to hear a rendition of “Who’s On First?”). Jeff Greenberg is returning with his delightful comedy. Plus, for the very first time, guests will enjoy Jack West’s comedic stylings as he takes on the great Jack Benny.
No Al Jolson Festival is complete without the main event, the musical stylings of Tony Babino. Known as “The Heart of Al Jolson,” Babino performs an entire concert tribute to Jolson, including hits “My Mammy” and “Swanee.”
“He gets better every year,” says Hernstat of Babino. “One of the main reasons that we can continue to do things like this is because we have a guy like Tony who is so talented and sounds so much like Jolson. It’s a joy. Nobody else does what he does like he does it.”
A part of what makes the full-day festival so special is that enthusiasts from all over come together to reflect on their shared passion. Hernstat says guests will be traveling from Philadelphia, New Jersey, and even Kansas City to be in a room of likeminded individuals who appreciate Jolson’s magic.
“Where can you go nowadays to see the old-time entertainers recreated?” asks Hernstat, as he considers the unique programming planned for the day. “[For us Long Islanders,] it’s right in our backyard.”
Hernstat hopes that through the work of the Al Jolson Society, members will be able to continue to find Jolson fans who will help keep his legacy alive.
“It’s harder and harder to find those people out there who are true Jolson fans. We’re not looking to convert anyone to become a Jolson fan; we just want to find the ones out there who are and let them know that they have this outlet for their enjoyment.”
