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Outstanding comic: Louis CK will be coming to Grand Valley State University this Friday.

Comedian Louis C.K. to electrify Homecoming show

By Lauren Sibula
10/9/2008

Comedian Louis C.K. will perform his stand-up comedy routine Friday night, breaking Grand Valley State University's long-standing Homecoming show tradition.

It has been tradition to book a musical act for the Homecoming show. But this year, jokes will replace notes as Louis C.K. performs his comedy act in the Fieldhouse Arena.

Louis has a strong resume in the comedy field as a stand-up comedian, actor, writer and director. He has worked with famous comedian/actor Chris Rock for many years -- he co-wrote "I think I Love My Wife" with Rock and won an Emmy for writing on "The Chris Rock Show." He filmed two, one-hour stand-up specials on HBO, will star with Ricky Gervais in the upcoming film "This Side of Truth" and is currently writing a new comedy series for CBS, according to his Web site at http://www.louisck.net.

Last year's Homecoming show featured a concert with country music singer Josh Gracin. Though the event was a large success, Spotlight Productions wanted to step away from the musical realm and venture into a comedy show for the Homecoming audience.

"Music appeals to specific genres, whereas comedy appeals to a much wider group," said Mike Schulz, vice president of marketing for Spotlight Productions. "Everyone likes to laugh."

Known for his bluntness and adult humor, Louis will be performing a brand new routine, which Schulz said is a benefit for students.

"The material is pretty fresh, so you can't hop on YouTube and spoil it," he said.

Louis will perform at Michigan State University tonight, and student tickets cost $27.50. However, at GVSU, student tickets will cost only $5.

Tom Coy, assistant director of the Office of Student Life, said the low admission price at GVSU speaks volumes about the successes of Spotlight Productions.

"The Student Senate sees that Spotlight Productions consistently puts out great events and have established a great track record for amazing shows," Coy said. "The Senate keeps coming to partner up on special events because they do so well. You're getting the Big Ten school experience at Grand Valley, and for way less money."

Schulz said the low ticket price for students shows GVSU's dedication to its students.

After the show, Louis will hang out in the lobby with students and provide autographs.

"He is really down to earth, and you don't always get that with performers," Coy said.

Tickets are available for purchase at the 2020 desk in the Kirkhof Center. Prices are $5 for students, $10 for faculty, staff and alumni and $15 for the general public.

"This is a chance for everyone to get together and laugh -- Louis' comedy will affect everyone," Schulz said. "All generations of Grand Valley can get together and enjoy themselves."

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