Movie and TV fans know Chazz Palminteri now. He starred in “The Usual Suspects” and earned an Oscar nomination for “Bullets Over Broadway.” He popped up as Jay’s friend Shorty on “Modern Family” and Frank Rizzoli Sr. on “Rizzoli & Isles.”

But his new stage show goes back to where his stardom all began: “A Bronx Tale.” Back in the day, Palminteri wasn’t too happy with the roles he was getting, so he wrote a one-man play that could showcase his acting talent and range. It was a big hit, and it eventually led to a movie version, directed by and co-starring Robert De Niro.

Palminteri is out performing his one-man “Bronx Tale” on stages around the country again, including at the Garde Arts Center on Friday. Expect a tour de force.

Chazz Palminteri in “A Bronx Tale,” 8 p.m. Friday, Garde Arts Center, 325 State St., New London; $38-$65; (860) 444-7373, gardearts.org.