Audio By Carbonatix
Former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal has plenty of Gold Bond money to invest in his heralded traveling comedy show. He’s also fired his old promoter and inked a new contract to take over the venture. Eighteen years ago, HCE Live began throwing club nights deep in the heart of black Chicago, and today the company is one of the largest concert promoters in America. The firm’s rise and success is the reason Shaq dropped Live Nation and chose HCE to book and promote his nationwide tour, All Star Comedy Jam.
Company president Damani Thomas says, “We didn’t just put together a headliner and some fillers; we’ve got Tommy Davidson, Tony Roberts, DeRay Davis, Gary Owen, and Michael Blackson.” And each comedian was chosen specifically for the show at the James L. Knight Center (400 SE Second Ave., Miami) based on popular demand by the people of Miami. “We polled the audience, and the lineup was tailored for the city,” Thomas says, “not just for African-Americans, but for all ethnicities. And we don’t put restraints on the performers’ creativity. But it’s not just dirty,” he assures. “It’s a good, funny show.” Tickets cost $40 to $114, and the showtime is 8 p.m. Friday, with music by DJ Spinderella. Call 800-653-8000 and visit ticketmaster.com.
Fri., Oct. 3, 8 p.m., 2014
