The comedian, Ron White, who has become better known since his inclusion in the Blue Collar Comedy Tour with Jeff Foxworthy and Bill Engvall, appeared Thursday, Sept. 30 at Freedom Hall.
The show was one of many stops on White’s “Drunk In Public” tour, and drew in over 1,700 people for the one-night appearance.
Opening for White, was actor, writer and comedian Robert Hawkins. Hawkins kept the audience laughing with his amusing take on testicular cancer, which he had suffered once himself, and his life as a parent of twins.
Against the often times harsh and vulgar comedic stylings of White, Hawkins appears rather wholesome. But don’t let this guy fool you.
Hawkins loves to use innuendo and double entendres to accomplish the same means, and neither acts were something intended for younger audiences. The event was advertised with a “For Mature Audiences” recommendation due to the comedians’ adult subject content.
“The use of a ‘mature content’ advisory in the advertising helps patrons to make better informed decisions about whether the material is appropriate for youth or children,” said Lisa M. Chamness, Freedom Hall director.
“If Freedom Hall patrons are ever unsure about whether a particular program is suited to certain ages, old or young, we encourage them to call our box office and speak with one of our staff for more information.”
Although Freedom Hall is promoted locally as a ‘tobacco-free’ environment and alcohol sales are prohibited on campus by law, there are rare exceptions to some rules.
White was permitted to utilize a cigar and a bottle of Johnnie Walker whiskey as props during his performance since these items are an expected and integrated part of his ‘friendly drunk’ persona.
White appeared on stage in his usual style: a slight swagger, flushed cheeks, his brow glistening and dressed all in black. He looked like he could sweat pure alcohol and he was a master at the drunken slur.
In the same manner, he was sharp-witted and alert. All of it leaving you to wonder if he really was that drunk. Even if he isn’t, he plays the part convincingly enough.
For more information on Ron White’s “Drunk in Public” tour, please visit www.tatersalad.com. There you will also find a link with more information on Robert Hawkins.

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