Objectively speaking, there is no one funnier on the planet than Fran Lebowitz. Fortunately (for us anyway), the chain-smoking New Yorker, defined by her wry observations and social commentary, is coming to Las Vegas. The Smith Center for the Performing Arts announced its fall lineup this morning, and Lebowitz is scheduled for October 17 with journalist Frank Rich for an appearance with a political bent, aptly titled, A State of the Union Conversation: An Evening with Frank Rich & Fran Lebowitz.

Sandwiched between Dr. John & The Blind Boys of Alabama, (October 16) and John Tesh: Big Band LIVE! (October 21), Lebowitz and Rich are part of Smith Center’s broad programming mission that strives to attract audiences of various backgrounds, ages, cultural mores and musical tastes.

Also in line for fall is Pilobolus Dance Theatre

(October 24), the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra performing works by Schubert, Chopin and Brahms. (October 29), Sergio Mendes and Candy Dulfer (November 9), Ballet Folklorico de Mexico (November 4 and 5), and Anita Baker (November 29). Find the complete list on the Smith Center’s website.

But more importantly, dust off that copy of Lebowitz’ Social Studies that you bought back in the ’80s and revisit Martin Scorsese’s documentary on Lebowitz, Public Speaking.

Tickets for all performances go on sale August 17 at 10 a.m at TheSmithCenter.com or 749-2000.